Process Optimization with Discrete Event Simulation Software: An Experience in Ecuador Small Enterprise

Abstract:

Industry metalworking is a field in which there is venturing for big, small, and medium industries. Manufacturing rainwater channels belong to this section of the industry. In Ecuador, the vast majority of production is made by artisans or SMEs (Small and Medium Enterprises). This project realized a survey of the manufacturing processes of rain gutters made by SME, then a simulation of the processes employing the FLEXSIM simulation tool, concluding with a proposal for improvements. This made it possible to reduce manufacturing times and improve the efficiency of operators and machinery used to manufacture channels. The methodology used for data collection observation techniques and field study permitting to collect time data simulates each process. The interview technique was used with artisans and medium and large business managers to validate the survey of processes. With the data collected, a study of the manufacturing process of rainwater channels was done. Finally, the team built a simulation using the Flexim tool in which several data can be obtained and analyzed as the percentage of dead times of machinery and operators. The analysis allowed to update the model to achieve a simulation that proposes a reduction in manufacturing time, and give a basis for analysis of small and medium business to increase their productivity.

Año de publicación:

2022

Keywords:

• discrete event systems
• Manufacturing systems simulation
• Process Optimization

Fuente:

scopus