Workers and Machine Performance Modeling in Manufacturing System Using Arena Simulation

Abstract

This paper deals with the workers and machine performance measurements in manufacturing system. In simulating the manufacturing system, discrete event simulation involves the modeling of the system as it improves throughput time and is particularly useful for modeling queuing systems. In modeling this system, an ARENA simulation model was developed, verified, and validated to determine the daily production and potential problem areas for the various request levels in the case company (Ethiopia Plastic Factory). The results obtained show that throughput time in the existing system is low because of occurrence of bottlenecks, and waiting time identified. Therefore, some basic proposals have been drawn from the result to raise awareness of the importance of considering human and machine performance variation in such simulation models. It presents some conceptual ideas for developing a worker manager for representing worker and machine performance in manufacturing systems simulation models. The company workers’ and machine performance level is raised by identifying the bottle neck area. They were recommended to amend the main basic bottle necks identified.