Computer simulation in identification and elimination of waste in the production process

Abstract

This paper lays the theoretical foundations for the characterisation the course of processes in production engineering by means of computer tools, with the focus on the essence and benefits resulting from the use the programmes in question. The main objective of this study is to employ a selected computer tool for modelling, analysing and simulating a selected product manufacturing process to identify areas in the process that require improvement. The work involved the Tecnomatix Plant Simulation programme, in which the existing production process was modelled. The created model was used to simulate the runtime of the production lot, identify bottlenecks and analyse production losses, such as: waiting, stocks, and unnecessary transport. The conducted analysis has produced an outcome in the form of methods for eliminating identified production losses and modifying the model. The simulations were subsequently carried out on a modified model, which allowed determining the level of improvement of the assumed indicators, e.g. order completion time, set-up time, waiting time, stocks. The selected tool served not only as a means to visualising the course of the manufacturing process but also enabled us to optimise and improve it. The article presents the possibilities of using simulation programmes to identify and eliminate waste in production processes. In addition, the conclusions show not only the results of the simulations but also the most important benefits resulting from the use of this type of tools in production engineering, in particular in lean production management.