Simulation of Multi-Stage Manufacturing Systems to Evaluate Different Tool-Changing Policies

Abstract

This paper presents a computer algorithm, which is developed to determine the effect of various tool changing policies on the productivity of a multi-stage automated manufacturing system. The computer algorithm includes an optimization and a simulation routine. An optimization routine is used to determine the optimum machining conditions, which include the optimum tool life and the machining time for each station. The results are then fed into a simulation routine which simulates the line for a period of time to determine the line output rate for each tool changing policy. The policy which results in maximum prodution rate is selected as the best policy. Computerized simulation and optimization have proved to be very effective in solving tool-change planning problems in manufacturing.