Abstract
This paper deals with the development of a simulation software using the features of visual interactive computer graphics for analysing the dynamic scheduling of a flexible manufacturing system (FMS) to cater to the need of fluctuating markets. While carrying out this work, the main concepts of dynamic modelling, computer simulation and visual interactive graphics have been used for studying the reduction in backlogs of workorders. In addition, queue length, waiting time and the capacity utilisation of the manufacturing system are also considered. The arrival pattern of components is fitted to a suitable distribution pattern based on the workorder position. The effects of despatching rules such as SPT, LPT, EDD, SIO, SLACK, SLACK/LRO on scheduling are analysed using the simulator to imitate the real life operation of FMS. Visual interactive computer graphics enables the user to find out machine utilisation levels, queue length of the components, throughput and comparison between the application of various despatching rules. Since dynamic queue records are maintained, it is possible to establish the various components waiting in the respective work centres and their attributes like lateness, slack, remaining operations etc. This software is very useful in enabling the user to select the appropriate despatching rule for the system. The software has been developed in the ‘C’ language for IBM/PC compatible systems.
This is a preview of subscription content, log in via an institution to check access.
Similar content being viewed by others
References
M. Montazeri and Van Wasenhove, “Analysis of scheduling rule for an FMS”,International Journal of Production Research 28(4), pp. 785–802, 1990.
A. Carrie, “Simulation of manufacturing system”, John Wiley & Sons, 1988.
M. Pidd, “Computer simulation in management science”, John Wiley & Sons, 1988.
R.W. Conway, “Priority dispatching and job lateness in a jobshop”,Journal of Industrial Engineering 16(4), 228–237, 1965.
H.A. ElMaraghy, “Simulation and graphical animation of advanced manufacturing system”,Journal of Manufacturing Systems 1(1), pp. 77–88, 1967.
R.W. Conway and W.L. Maxwell, “Network dispatching by shortest operation discpline”,Operation Research 10, pp. 51–73, 1967.
B.W. Hollock, “Practical benefits of animated graphics in simulation”,International Proceedings of 1984 Winter Simulation Conference, pp. 341–347, 1984.
E. Johnson and J.P. Poorte, “A hierarchial approach to computer animation in simulation modelling”,Simulation 50, pp. 30–36, January 1988.
Author information
Authors and Affiliations
Rights and permissions
About this article
Cite this article
Selladurai, V., Aravindan, P. & Satheesan, R. Development of a computer simulator for dynamic scheduling of FMS to achieve optimal performance. Int J Adv Manuf Technol 12, 145–152 (1996). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01178955
Issue Date:
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01178955