A model object is a no-code method of representing complex behaviors usually requiring expert modeling skill. In addition, a model object might include many ProcessModel elements, action logic, and external files. There are more than 200 model objects. For example, model objects include:
- Arrivals
- Importing many arrivals
- Importing arriving entities with routing information
- Enter part numbers and read routing/timing/assembly requirements from a table, and import
- Converting arrival “raw data” into patterns then importing
- Resources
- Table entry and import for resource work schedules
- Resource assignment to activities with a capability and efficiency matrix
- Develop and assign resource groups
- Routings
- Find the shortest line
- Go to the most available
- Select by Round Robin
- Go to all activities in any order
- Go until full
- Variable create and attach
- Change the percent pass/fail based on the type
- Change the percent pass/fail based on the number of visits
- Activities
- Create short batches at lunch or at the end of the day
- Change batch size based on the entity type
- Create a short batch for the remainder at the end of the order
- Batch all at a specific time
- Pull highest priority items first
- Gates that open or close based on the time of day
- Perform setups when changing entity types
- Statistics
- Report SLA for work hours only (Alternate work hours allowed for different parts of the model)
- Collection of SLA for many entity types using only two variables
- Visual Indicators
- On-screen variables
- Digital Clock (5 variations)
- Stop/Go graphic (10 styles)
- Randomize entity graphics
- And many more
Why are Model Objects important?
- Quick turnaround — We create model objects to meet a specific request from you. Most model objects return to you within the same day at no cost. Changing the software to provide the same feature requires weeks to define, develop, test, and release. And model objects bypass a similar process on the users’ side. You get what you need, and it happens in the “blink of an eye.”
- Created by experts — We see the models of thousands of customers. This great exposure allows us to combine and build on ideas. You become the beneficiary of thousands of hours of modeling, refined and simplified.
- Simple to use — Insert the model object, connect to your model, and make parameter changes. Hours of work melt into minutes.
- Made to integrate — Model objects insert all the needed code and objects to work flawlessly. What if there is a conflicting name in the inserted code? The object is given a new name and all the logic is automatically rewritten so it will work perfectly.
- Removes without a trace — For whatever reason, if the model object needs to be removed, delete the object and all trace of variables, attributes and scenario parameters will be scrubbed from the file.
- Mentor mania — Access all parts of the model object and learn from the best modelers in the world. If there a part you don’t understand? Give us a call and we’ll explain it. When you become a better modeler it helps us.
How do I use Model Objects?
Applying model objects is simple. Save your model with at least one object on the layout. From the Model Objects menu, choose Select, find the object and press the Insert button. Model objects can be accessed by selecting the Model Objects/Select menu item.Model objects menu of ProcessModel.
Model Objects The model object dialog allows selection by industry or category. When the By Industry option is selected, the model objects, for industry chosen at install, will be displayed. If the Other category was selected, all the model objects for all industries will be displayed. The industry can be changed by selecting the Tools/ Preferences menu item.
Model objects window of ProcessModelWhen the By Category option is selected, all objects from all industries are arranged in areas such as: arrivals; batching; conveyors; cost; flow control; etc.
Preview Selecting a name from the tree diagram, on the left of the dialog, will show a picture of the main elements of the model object in the Preview pane.
Description The designated purpose of the model.
Help A link to an online blog article or video describing the usage of the model object.
Insert Places the selected model object at the point of the cursor. When no graphics are previously on the screen the Insert button is grayed out. If a Model object is to be the first element on the model, make certain to place text or some other graphical element on the layout before attempting to insert a model object.
Open Opens the model object in a self-contained format. Any suggested entries can be tested or modified. The model object can be run so that you can see how it behaves with the changes to suggested entries. Deeper explanations are given for attributes, variable and scenario parameters used in the model.