Simulations Can Be Learning Tools for Contractors

by Hal on July 31, 2006

in IGLC, lean, systems

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There is never enough time to design the production system for construction, yet there is more than enough time for making do. Simulations offer promise for changing that.

Simulation as a Tool for Production System Design

Thais da C.L. Alves, et al (presented by Prof. Iris Tommelein)

Using the design and fabrication of ductwork and ductwork fittings to They used Stroboscope1 to model the process. They modelled the process on both deterministic and stochastic basis. The results produced large inventories on the construction site. By adding a "supermarket" rule2 to initiate new work orders. Inventory dropped. They then ran the model by allowing variation. As anticipated when they ran the model they eventually got a stockout of ready work (in the 76th period). Based on this they reset their supermarket level.

The simulation models can be wonderful learning tools. Teams can experiment with production system designs before actually doing the work. The effects of variation on production system performance is highlighted.


  1. Discreet event simulation environment developed by Julio Martinez, Ph.D. for the construction market. [ ⇑ back ]
  2. The simplest form is to replenish stock when a certain level is achieved. [ ⇑ back ]

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