Simuleringsverktyg för optimering av produktion : En studie i hur simuleringsprogram kan väljas och användas för förbättringsarbete

Abstract: The main goal for this thesis project has been to investigate how companies can make use of simulation software to optimize and improve the flow of their production. The report is aimed towards companies or users that are interested in starting to use simulation software but lack the know-how. We set out to investigate and demonstrate how the selection of simulation software can be done, how the functions of the program can be used to optimize production, and in which way a simulation project can be efficiently conducted. The thesis was conducted as a case study at GE Healthcare’s department for Continuous Improvement in Uppsala, Sweden, where a simulation program was chosen, procured and used to test different scenarios and suggestions for improvement. A method for selection and evaluation of the simulation software was developed, where a previously developed method called Analytical Hierarchy Process plays a central part. As simulation software are not as generic as they are often promoted by vendors, the selection of the right software is of great importance. Our method of selecting simulation software aims to ensure that the right software is chosen based on the need of the user. The simulation software determined as most suitable for GE Healthcare’s needs was Simcad Pro. Using this program, two different production situations were modeled and simulated. The results from the simulation of the first production case showed potential for optimization of work force utilization where one worker could run a production line alone with the help of a robot, instead of using two operators. The simulations also resulted in suggestions for reduction in lead-time and work in progress. For the second production case, the simulation showed that the procurement of only 10 tanks was needed instead of the planned 14 tanks, by better planning of the flow of material. Our conclusions are that simulation software can be of great use for companies working with continuous improvement, provided that the right software is chosen and that the right method for working with the program is utilized.