Development of a prototype simulation tool for an aircraft materials remanufacturing system

Abstract

Remanufacturing is a process involving the repair or refurbishment of worn parts. Systems involved with remanufacturing differ from more traditional manufacturing operations in terms of material and work content characteristics. Parts are subject to variable recovery rates and lead times, while service requirements are unknown in advance and the processing times are variable. A data-driven prototype simulation model was developed for decision support in an Air New Zealand Engineering Service's aircraft materials remanufacturing system. The model, named SIMMAT, consists of structured logic statements based on observations and information supplied by the system's staff. It processes information relating to staffing levels and the work received over time. Processing times are represented using probability distributions. Outputs include numerical data and animated graphics. For evaluation purposes SIMMAT was set to simulate operations for a recent period of time. Simulated workloads were compared against the expectations of experienced staff. It was felt that the model gave a credible indication of how the actual system had performed. From this study, appropriately designed simulation models appear to have good potential to support scheduling and decision making in remanufacturing systems.