Simulation in evaluation of scheduling policies in composites manufacturing

An assesment was made of the technology of manufacturing simulation of discrete part manufacturing for specific applications of a small polymer composites company. The objectives were: Assess potential use for optimizing existing operations or for planning future projects and expansion; Select suitable software; Identify needed resources; and Recommend an implementation plan. It should be emphasized that the scope of the assessment was very specific to a small company’s needs and that the search was limited to existing software packages that were easy to use and low in cost. Simulation was applied to a new project, fabrication and carpeting of tire covers and seat backs for two automotive models. The Structural Reaction Injection Molding process was used for fabrication and carpet was applied in a bonding and assembly section. Capital and materials handling schemes has been determined previously, leaving operating modes and scheduling options as primary systems unknowns. Simulation of the process in operation provided a systems perspective leading to recommendations of operating strategies that were not obvious.