Simulation-based dispatching in a production system

Abstract

This paper describes the continuous application of simulation from system design to system operation including the integration of the simulation in a manufacturing execution system (MES). This is done using the example of a real-world manufacturing system, a complex flexible laser welding facility. The results of a simulation study during system design are presented and it is derived how these results strengthened the decision to implement a simulation-based MES. Some technical details of the connection between the Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system, the MES, and the Programmable Logic Control (PLC) are explained, as well as the usage of the MES and the simulation by the operations planners (dispatchers).

Keywords:

• discrete-event simulation
• manufacturing execution system
• welding facility
• simulation-based dispatching

Acknowledgements

Note—This paper is a revised and expanded version of a paper entitled Simulationsgestützte Feinplanung im Produktionsumfeld – vom SAP zur SPS presented at 15th ASIM Dedicated Conference Simulation in Production and Logistics, Paderborn, Germany, 9–11 October 2013.