Summary
We help our customers by using dynamic flow simulation to answer complex issues in their internal logistics. By simulating customers' existing or planned activities, we can provide answers to a number of relevant questions such as:
- How much can the material flow increase in the existing solution before problems occur?
- Will the capacity be sufficient in the proposed new solution?
- How much staffing and equipment is needed if we make this change?
- We choose between 2 different layouts, which will be the most cost effective?
- Do we risk queues being formed if we implement this change?
We are thorough when creating models whose logic corresponds to reality to the extent required and to use input data that is as correct as possible. The results we receive then are far more accurate than those from more simple static calculations. With more reliable knowledge, customers can feel safer in their decision making or ongoing change process.
We simulate from individual material handling equipment to smaller systems and even up to large, complete plants, all based on customer needs.
Examples of customers:
- companies engaged in storage and / or production operations
- Suppliers of material handling- and / or automation equipment.
- Property owners who rent out premises for storage or production activities.
- Other consultancy companies that do not perform these services themselves.
Examples of applications:
- As a basis for investment decisions:
1) To analyze capacity and resource needs, risk of queuing, function and cost.
2) To preview and test new equipment in a model of the customer's existing environment.
3) Clear visual communication internally and between stakeholders - avoids misunderstandings.
Short example videos
To get an idea if we can model and simulate your equipment and logic, we have created a number of videos with examples. Of course, the different equipment fit together and can be combined in larger systems.
More videos will be uploaded. Visit the website occasionally for updates, subscribe to our YouTube channel or contact us if you miss any equipment in the videos.
Sim Logistics Example Videos
Sim Logistics - Flow Simulation of a Manual Warehouse - Full Pallet Handling
Sim Logistics - Flow simulation of ASRS
Sim Logistics reference video - GKN ePowertrain
Sim Logistics - Simulation of AGV Systems
Sim Logistics on Facebook - Cover page video
Sim Logistics customer project - Thule Group
Call +46 761 618384 or send an email to info@simlogistics.se
for more information on how we can help you with better decision support and more effective internal logistics with flow simulation!
Below is a detailed description of the service with examples of what may be included,
for those who want to know more.
Introduction
It is usually said that an image says more than 1000 words. Images from different directions or animation of a 3D model of a new warehouse, automation solution or altered layout say much more than description in text or a 2D drawing. The height dimension appears and clarifies how a proposal or change will come about. Something like for natural reasons not appear in the same way in 2D drawings.
This is one of the reasons why Sim Logistics works with 3D visualization and simulation tools in the design of layers and layouts.
Another reason is that it is incredibly easy to work with object-based 3D modeling in the design phase. By adding or subtracting different objects such as material handling and storage equipment, new ideas and their physical meaning can be quickly visualized and tested.
A third reason is that solution proposals often need to be verified by simulation to ensure function and capacity. In the simulation programs that Sim Logistics uses, the models are created directly 3 dimensional. This allows a model in a single application first to be used to visualize or animate an idea, then used to test the same idea through advanced simulation. If the purpose instead is simulation from the beginning, clear and explanatory 3D visualization comes as a valuable bonus in the same project.
Visualization, animation and simulation in the same program
Sim Logistics uses the proven simulation program C-WIS Design for visualization and simulation. The program is suitable for warehouses with mainly manual handling and movement of goods and with only minor elements of automation equipment. In this program a model of a warehouse is built relatively quickly. It is also very suitable for analyzing resource needs in the form of staff and equipment and also the risk of bottlenecks.
If a solution means a larger part of automation equipment, we use instead Demo3D. This world-leading program is ideally suited for impressive advanced visualization, animation and simulation of material handling and automation equipment within warehouse and production.
Process in simulation project
Warehouse Physics
The process of obtaining accurate and value adding results from a simulation model starts with the physics of the proposed solution. Pallet racks, roller conveyors, pallet cranes, etc. are being added and built up in the model carefully and in the right scale.
If it is an existing solution to be simulated, drawings are often available and sometimes imported to the programs to ensure the correct location of the objects. If it is a completely new solution that is being created, this step is made in the design phase, as simulation programs are advantageously used as modeling programs to "craft" a proposal.
Flow and logic
When the physics is in place, the proposed goods flow and logic of the solution can be added. Work processes and activities that to a sufficient extent (for relevant and accurate results) mimic the existing or intended future reality are incorporated into the model.
Tests
When all material flows, processes and activities are included in the model, tests can be made. The models are run (simulated) and simultaneously studied visually to detect any errors in flows and logic. The results in the reports obtained after simulation are also studied carefully to assess their reasonableness.
When simulating an existing solution, there is the advantage that the results can be verified against known data from reality. For new solutions, this option is not available, but instead, the visual check and the assessment of reasonableness will be done in more detail. When the model is considered sufficiently finished, it can be simulated for final results.
Input data
In order to succeed in simulation and obtaining relevant and accurate results, high accuracy is required during the construction of the model and correct input. Examples of data needed for dynamic simulation of a warehouse logistics model are:
- Drawing (at existing solution) for correct dimensions and placement in layout.
- Technical specifications for manual and automated material handling equipment such as driving and lifting speeds, acceleration and also process times.
- Work shift with work and break times for staff.
- Approximate administrative and personal time, i.e. inactive time for staff.
- Number of loads and frequency and their change over time for all material flows to, from and through the warehouse or production lines.
- Number of orders, order lines and picking rounds when order picking.
Example of results
Examples of results from the simulation programs that Sim Logistics uses:
- Visual observation of likely events, are queues formed e.g.
- Resource needs in the form of staff and handling equipment.
- Bottleneck analysis where aisles with high forklift driving frequency and queue time are shown by the program.
- Transport time for load from point A to B in automation system.
- Forklift driving distance and total handling time per order line and order.
