Enhanced integration of energy-related considerations in discrete event simulation for manufacturing applications

In order to allow for truly holistic considerations, as intended in the Digital Factory concept, energy‐related factors need to be considered. This has not been widely implemented for discrete event simulation (ie, material flow simulation) in industrial companies, yet, even though it may foster the energy efficiency within production sites considerably. A primary reason for the lack of acceptance is that previously discussed approaches did not meet the users’ requirements. This paper discusses how a suitable extension (eniBRIC), which renders energy‐related considerations possible within material flow simulation, can be developed paying heed to both user requirements and the state of the art. A special focus is set on its implementation in Siemens Tecnomatix Plant Simulation. The workflow for the integration of the extension into existing and new simulation models is outlined. Opportunities for its utilisation in specific application examples, as well as the associated extra time and effort are discussed.