Workcell

These model objects  are created to work with each other. Like lego pieces the model objects can be joined together and will help to quickly develop the interrelationship batches of production with a machine, a worker, setup times, load and unload times, downtimes and inspection. When a cell change over is performed before running the next part number, or when different stations are setup for different part numbers.

When different part numbers follow unique paths in the work cell. The model structure stays the same and only the arrivals need to change. When multiple part types are being processed on the same machine each with different times for each of the above elements. When trying to determine the effective and reasonable usage of resources in a work cell and to collect real-time statistics during a workcell simulation.

Where to Find the Model Object

The following model object can be found in the model objects directory:

  1. Workcell \ Flexible Workcell MC – RL
  2. Workcell \ Flexible Workcell MC – V
  3. Workcell \ Flexible Workcell MC w Insp – RL
  4. Workcell \ Flexible Workcell MC w Insp – V
  5. Workcell \ Flexible Workcell MC w Insp
  6. Workcell \ Flexible Workcell MC
  7. Workcell \ Flexible Workcell Setup for new PN
  8. Workcell \ Flexible Workcell Variable Routing
  9. Workcell \ Workcell Assembly 1 Piece Flow – LR
  10. Workcell \ Workcell Assembly 1 Piece Flow – RL
  11. Workcell \ Workcell Assembly 1 Piece Flow – UP
  12. Workcell \ Workcell Assembly 1 Piece Flow – VR
  13. Workcell \ Workcell Inspection 1 Piece Flow – LR
  14. Workcell \ Workcell Inspection 1 Piece Flow – RL
  15. Workcell \ Workcell Inspection 1 Piece Flow – UP
  16. Workcell \ Workcell Inspection 1 Piece Flow – VR
  17. Workcell \ Workcell Machine Center 1 Piece Flow – LR
  18. Workcell \ Workcell Machine Center 1 Piece Flow – RL
  19. Workcell \ Workcell Machine Center 1 Piece Flow – UP
  20. Workcell \ Workcell Machine Center 1 Piece Flow – VR
  21. Workcell \ Workcell Stat Collector 1 Piece Flow
  22. Workcell \ Workcell Testing 1 Piece Flow – LR
  23. Workcell \ Workcell Testing 1 Piece Flow – RL
  24. Workcell \ Workcell Testing 1 Piece Flow – UP
  25. Workcell \ Workcell Testing 1 Piece Flow – VR
  26. Workcell \ Workcell Washing 1 Piece Flow – LR
  27. Workcell \ Workcell Washing 1 Piece Flow – RL
  28. Workcell \ Workcell Washing 1 Piece Flow – UP
  29. Workcell \ Workcell Washing 1 Piece Flow – VR

Difficulty Level

  • Ease of Use: Moderate
  • Ease of Modification: Moderate

How to Use the Model Object

  1. Open Your Model: Open your model or create a new blank model.
  2. Insert the Model Objects into Your Model: These model objects work differently than other model objects as you need to combine multiple Workcell model objects to create a workcell environment.
    1. Place the simulation work cell components based on what type of workcell is required.

      Design the workcell using common components. Machining, cleaning, assembly, test and inspection stations are included with multiple orientations. This allows you to design clockwise or counterclockwise workcell orientations.A simple workcell simulation example

    2. Add a data collection device. This model object is titled “Workcell Stats Collector 1 Piece Flow.” This is used to collect stats on the performance of the workcell.Add a data collection device
      1. Review Workcell Arrivals 1 Piece Flow and Flexible Workcell Arrivals to learn how to add arrivals to your model object.

        Change the schedule and operational characteristics of the workcell. Headings of columns with a suffix of 1, are linked to station 1 while headings of columns with a suffix of 2, are linked to station 2, etc. If the times are changed in this spreadsheet and the import button is selected then the model is updated.

        Below are a few of the items that could be changed:

        1. Each row represents a new order usually denoted with a change in a_Name (part number).
        2. Time – The day and time this order will start.
        3. Quantity – the number of batches of a particular part. For example a single part number may have several batches for reporting purposes.
        4. a_Name – an integer value used to describe each unique part. If your part numbers have alpha or special characters, create a conversion table to associate your part number with an integer value. Use only the integer value in this table.
        5. a_Batch_Size — The number of parts in a batch, this is used to collect batch cycle time.
        6. Setup time for each station. This will be used when the part name changes.
        7. Processing time for each station. These can be integer values or distributions to include variability.
        8. Load and unload time. Used as needed to represent load and unload times. If there is no Load or Unload time then set this attribute to zero (0).

          Update the model with the newly added information.

      2. You will need to replace the InQ Station1 with the in queue from the arrivals model object, but certain elements contain logic, so routes can’t be randomly deleted and have the model work correctly. Instructions are provided below, so that the correct items are retained. Move the origin of the Route shown below:Replace the “InQ Station1”
      3. Delete InQ Station1 and move InQ Stationa1 into its place as show below:Delete “InQ Station1” and move “InQ Stationa1”
      4. Connect model objects. Use the connector line tool to route between model objects and connect the additional objects as indicated.Connect model objects.
        Use the connector line tool to route between model objects
      5. The required connections are shown in red.