Systems simulation methods and applications

Systems Engineering

Systems Simulation

Replicating the performance of a complex system through the use of systems simulation provides invaluable insight into the constraints, workflows and processes that determine its optimal level of performance. The use of systems simulation in oil refineries, process manufacturing, discrete and complex manufacturing including constraint-based modeling of customized equipment all provide valuable insights into how to continually improve process performance. The use of systems simulation is becoming commonplace in determining the optimal performance of individual and groups of machines combined to complete complex manufacturing and process tasks [2].

Analysis of Systems Simulation Scenarios

From process-centric systems that are involved in oil refining and process-related goods to the reliance on systems simulation to continually improve lean manufacturing processes across a discrete manufacturer's production floor, all share a series of common attributes. These common attributes include the modeling of specific constraints that are often dynamic and in turn influenced by independent factors that are often not in the control of a manufacturer or product developer. The use of system simulation to study the effects of controllable and uncontrollable factors on production and process control often provides insights not possible expect over years of operation [1]. From this standpoint, system simulation is a highly effective means for traversing the experience curve of a given process or product cycle or series of programs and gaining the benefits of what would have taken years to capture in terms of data. The continual improvement of process-driven production and refining operations can also be continually improved through the use of systems simulation when constraints and both controllable and uncontrollable variables are introduced into the process workflows [1].

The use of system simulation in these scenarios can also be used for determining how new product development will proceed, including first article production and in the case of process goods, how initial batches or production runs will deliver quality levels as well.

Simulations greatest contribution to the continuous process improvement of products however is in the area of quality management and compliance. In highly regulated industries where each batch of a given product is audited and often cataloged in terms of its ingredients, as is the case with pharmaceutical drugs for example, the need for continual improvement of quality is paramount. The same requirements are also evident in the continual improvements in quality of a department in a hospital; there is no room for error in an emergency room and as the served patients continually change in terms of demographics, conditions and treatment plans, the need for system simulation of these processes is critical for saving lives. The triage aspects of a hospital are essential for care and treatment programs to be successful, yet triaging approaches based on system simulations in emergency rooms are mission critical to the success of the entire healthcare provider.