In this article, we take a closer look at production simulation software, a tool to help you manage the unpredictable nature of manufacturing planning.
The challenge of industrial planning
We know the challenges production engineers face every day. Handling emergency situations, controlling inventory overload and managing performance are some of these challenges.
Another big problem is responding to regular irregularities in their production areas . Gather data, do the analysis, develop fixes and convince management that they have everything under control.
How production simulation software helps you plan better
Production engineers have many tools at their disposal to manage the unpredictable nature of manufacturing planning. In this article, we take a closer look at one software in particular: 3D production simulation software .
Here are 7 ways 3D manufacturing simulation software can help you with manufacturing planning :
#1. First test the changes on your production line in the virtual world
Testing and simulating your line's performance in a stress-free virtual world can help you spot problems and improvements before implementing them in the real world.
#2. Fix problems early in the process
Did you have a bottleneck shift further upstream? Simulation can help you identify and visualize problems that are preventing your line from working.
#3. Simulate the production of your existing line and optimize it
Identify small changes that could lead to big performance improvements by testing and simulating process changes.
#4. Test different scenarios
What happens if one of the line workers calls in sick? Or, is a machine undergoing prolonged maintenance? How does each of these scenarios affect production? Simulation allows you to gain better insight into your production and can guide you on how to react to different scenarios.
#5. Test product mix variations
When you decide whether or not to change the range of products produced in your line and want to evaluate the effects this change will have on overall production, simulation can help you. You can test product mix variations and see how it affects performance.
#6. Better predictability
A critical point for manufacturers is just-in-time delivery of their products. 3D production simulation software can give you greater predictability of your line operations and help you plan more realistic delivery schedules.
#7. Communicate your recommendations to management
If you're having trouble communicating what's happening in production or justifying management changes, you can use simulation to support your arguments and help them better understand the ROI and benefits of each decision down the line.
Although 3D production simulation software can't solve all your problems, it can help make your job a little easier. Learn how to use Visual Components to sell your recommendations and ideas to your colleagues and stakeholders.
