Methodology for rapid identification and collection of input data in the simulation of manufacturing systems

Computer simulation is a well-established decision support tool in the manufacturing industry. The rapid development and deployment of simulation models however, are inhibited by factors such as inefficient data collection, lengthy model documentation, and poorly planned experimentation. Typically, more than one third of project time is spent on identification, collection, validation, and analysis of input data. Whilst most research work has been focused on statistical techniques for data analysis, less attention has been paid to the development of systematic approaches to input data gathering. This paper presents a methodology for rapid identification and collection of input data in batch manufacturing environments. A functional module library and a reference data model, both developed using the IDEF (Integrated computer aided manufacturing DEFinition) family of constructs, are the core elements of the methodology. The paper also identifies the major causes behind the inefficient collection of data.