optimization of manufacturing system simulations using perturbation analysis and sense
Perturbation Analysis (P/A) of discrete event systems is a recent technique which enables sensitivity analysis of decision parameters from a single simulation run. Thus, from a single simulation of a manufacturing design, one can estimate the effects of changing many different decisions such as adding more machines or fixtures, changing buffer sizes or changing lot sizes. The first part of this paper gives an overview of this new technique. The second part describes SENSE (SENSitivity Evaluator), a software package implementing the theories of P/A in easily usable form. Application of SENSE to GPSS/H simulations is described, with examples of its use for the design of flow lines at a major U.S. corporation. By using SENSE a simulation team is able to improve their designs in less time, and with less manpower and CPU-time, than previously required. The result is better designs and better turnaround time for simulation activities in general.
optimality manufacturability systems simulation use analysis event sensitive sensitivity analysis design estimates effect buffers paper software packaging theory usability applications examples flow timing activation general