Communication mechanism of the discrete event simulation and the mechanical project softwares for manufacturing systems

Abstract

Abstract This paper presents an integration mechanism for online communication between a discrete event simulation (DES) software and a system dynamics (SD) software. The integration between them allowed executing a hybrid and broader simulation, in which the complexity of the systems and their multi-faceted relationships may demand the combination of different simulation methods and the synergies between the techniques. The Ururau free and open-source software (FOSS) was applied to implement the DES model. In order to build the dynamic model, we used the software for mechanical design called CAD 3D Software Inventor®. Besides, we also employed the DES model in the test step of a control system in real time. The results of that mechanism implementation enabled the evaluation of different aspects of a typical manufacturing system. Furthermore, the integration between the control system and the DES model allowed validating the logic of the programmable logic controller (PLC). Highlights Mechanism for online communication between a discrete event simulation (DES) software and a system dynamics (SD) software. A free and open-source software (FOSS) was applied to implement the DES model. The results of that mechanism implementation enabled the evaluation of different aspects of a typical manufacturing system.