A microcomputer-based simulation model of a flexible manufacturing system with application to scheduling rules.

This research deals with the development of a microcomputer— based simulation model of a Flexible Manufacturing System (FMS) using the general purpose simulation language SLAM (Simulation Language for Alternative Modeling). The FMS under consideration is composed of general purpose machining centers laid out in separate lanes, a loading and an unloading station, a central parts storage to store the raw materials and work— in—process parts, and automated material handling systems. The simulation model which is adaptive to variations in the layout, serves as a decision tool to select a scheduling rule from amongst the five rules, namely. Random selection (RANDOM), Fewest Operations Remaining (FOPR), Most Operations Remaining (MOPR) , Shortest Processing Time (SPT) and Longest Processing Time (LPT). The model includes realistic aspects such as, alternate routing for certain operations, treatment of fixtures as resources, and part types with priorities. The simulation model is user— interactive and does not require a prior working knowledge of SLAM. Standard statistical techniques are used to select a scheduling rule from the five rules under