"FLEXSIM” :
A SIMULATION SOFTWARE APPLICATION FOR OPTIMIZATION
Joko
Prayitno
Northern
Kentucky University
Highland
Heights, KY 41099
Flexsim is a graphical and
quantitative simulation software program that can examine, test, plan, design,
and verify the workability of manufacturing, material handling, and logistic
systems and processes. Flexsim is
used to optimize flow-processes within warehouses and distribution centers, plan
and test layout of material handling systems, define staffing needs, examine
operational alternatives, and eliminate constraints within dynamic systems.
Flexsim offers a platform to evaluate “what-if” conditions and ideas
to improve material handling and operational processes. It justifies capital
expenditures, improves order picking methods, and provides realistic, dynamic,
quantitative, and stochastic representation of the key processes involved.
Flexsim has several levels of animation , i.e. 2D, 3D, and virtual reality (see
Figure 1 and Figure 2) that are excellent for communicating a model’s purpose
and results to both technical and non-technical audiences.
Figure 1
Flexsim will model all discrete manufacturing and material
handling processes, including conveyors and forklift trucks. Flexsim includes a
powerful object-oriented language called flexscript. Flexscript is a function-based simulation language that
allows users to create and customize the functionality, logic, and physical
attributes of modeling resources and even to create additional objects.
Importing 2D AutoCAD is a standard and easy process in Flexsim. Flexsim gives
the user the ability to develop unique, application-specific, and user-friendly
interfaces.
Figure
2
Flexsim is the most user-friendly simulation software in order to simulate a model. Animation, 2D and 3D graphics, and especially virtual reality mode are the most important features in Flexsim. These features indeed will help users and management make decisions about a “what-if” scenario without jeopardizing the real operation. In short, Flexsim, due to its user friendliness and features, is the most recommended simulation software package for various manufacturing and material handling industries. For more information, visit www.flexsim.com.
Last Updated on 8/29/2005