SIMMAT: an aircraft materials remanufacturing system simulation model. Part I: background and concept

Abstract

Remanufacturing consists of repair or refurbishment of worn parts and products. 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 processing times are stochastic. This paper describes a remanufacturing system for aircraft engine servicing, and discusses the use of simulation to support with its planning and scheduling. Literature is reviewed on planning and scheduling for complex and dynamic industrial systems, particularly job shops. Features and characteristics are discussed of an actual aircraft materials remanufacturing system located in Christchurch, New Zealand. Finally, the conceptual design is introduced of a prototype data-driven simulation model proposed for decision support with this system.