Case Study: Simulation Approach to Improve Efficiency of Warehousing Processes
摘要
In recent years, many companies have implemented solutions related to automating their manufacturing processes. Companies are exploring opportunities within Industry 4.0 principles to strengthen or improve their competitive position and enhance the efficiency of their processes. The material flow in manufacturing facilities passes through the production section and various support processes. Specifically, the support process of storage is where material flow originates and terminates within a manufacturing facility. A company from the case study has automated its manufacturing process and is now seeking ways to streamline its storage process. The company approached the problem from a systems perspective and developed a simulation model based on the storage process scheme. Input parameters for the model were obtained through systemic analysis and empirical measurements on-site. Subsequently, the model underwent experiments to assess the efficiency of the current system of material receiving and storage by a single worker. Following this, proposals for more efficient alternatives involving two workers, better scheduling of deliveries, and the implementation of AGVs in the material storage process were verified. The results of the verification experiments demonstrated increased efficiency in performing activities and enabled workers to build reserves, which could be used to undertake additional duties identified through systemic analysis.