Discrete Event Simulation Based Approach for Tracking Performance of Segmental Production at Precast Yard

Abstract

Efficient performance tracking and monitoring systems can facilitate timely decision-making by management. However, cycle time, which is commonly employed as a monitoring system in segmental production sites, can be time-consuming and only allows for the identification of inefficiencies, rather than supporting decision-making. In this context, operational management concepts with broad applications in manufacturing industries should be utilized. While several tools are offered by operational management, this paper focuses on the implementation of a process analysis tool as a performance tracking system for superstructure construction at a precast yard. Process analysis tools incorporate several operational performance measures, including cycle time, total idle time, direct labor content, and direct labor utilization. These performance measures serve as indicators for evaluating process productivity and can be estimated using an excel spreadsheet. Simulation tools, which enable visualization of the process and the identification of potential issues before implementation, can be valuable. In this regard, modeling in ExtendSim can be beneficial as the segmental production process can be easily visualized, aiding in the identification of station dependencies and allowing for the acquisition of performance measure results with a single click. This study therefore aims to explore the integration of process analysis tools with ExtendSim simulation as a performance tracking system at the precast yard. The values of these operational performance measures will provide management with multiple dimensions for enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of the segmental production process.