simplified approaches to modeling accumulating and nonaccumulating conveyor systems
In many systems (e.g., manufacturing systems), transportation of work-in-process is accomplished by the use of conveyors. The modeling of objects as they move along conveyors is logically demanding, especially if an object-by-object, inch-by-inch approach is taken. Two alternative and substantially simplified modeling approaches for representing movement of objects on conveyors are presented in this paper: the minimum travel time approach is appropriate for accumulating conveyors, and the follow-the-leader approach is of use in modeling nonaccumulating conveyors. These modeling approaches are presented in language-independent fashion. The application of the approaches is illustrated through a series of four hypothetical conveyor systems and several variations on them. Models for these conveyor systems are built, implemented in GPSS/H, displayed, and discussed. In a series of exercises, the reader is challenged to build and implement models for these same conveyor systems in whatever alternative simulation language(s) may be of interest.
model systems manufacturability transport use object movement paper timing applications variation exercise simulation language process