Modeling AGV systems using network constructs

ABSTRACT

The network world view of SLAM II® has been demonstrated as an effective method for modeling manufacturing processes. An automatic guided vehicle system (AGVS), however, may be difficult because of the special nature of its resources and their activities. This paper presents the Material Handling Extension for SLAM II© (MHEX). The MHEX overcomes these difficulties through a specialized set of network capabilities. This paper begins by describing the unique requirements imposed by an AGVS model. Next, the MHEX modeling approach is presented relative to these requirements. The paper is concluded by an example which emphasizes the use of the MHEX and how it is integrated with SLAM II.

REFERENCES

• 1: Apple, J.M., Material ELandlin~ Systems Design, John Wiley, New York. 1972.
• 2: Muller, T., Automated (3uided Vehicles, Springer-Verlag, 1983.
• 3: A. Alan Pritsker, Introduction to Simulation and SLAM II (3rd ed.), John Wiley & Sons, Inc., New York, NY, 1986
• 4: Sims, E.R. Jr., "Materials Handling Systems," Handbook of In~lustrial Engineering, G. Salvendy, ed., Chapter 10.3, John Wiley, 1982.

INDEX TERMS

Primary Classification:
  J. Computer Applications
  J.1 ADMINISTRATIVE DATA PROCESSING
      Subjects: Manufacturing

Additional Classification:
  I. Computing Methodologies
  I.6 SIMULATION AND MODELING
      I.6.2 Simulation Languages

          Nouns: SLAM

  J. Computer Applications

General Terms:
Design, Languages, Management, Performance, Theory