Modelling a (MTO) Flow Shop in M-2-M production logic by System Dynamic matrix approach

The following paper proposes a framework based on a System Dynamics matrix approach with the aim to support the reengineering decision process of a plant department, operating in Make-To-Order context, and characterized by a bottleneck process. The approach develops a simulation model able to reproduces production process, plant resources, items orders and, most of all, the stochastic behaviour of the entire system, considering furthermore the variables retroactions through the evolution of a matrix flow. The purpose consists in optimizing the mix of possible solutions between the strengthening of plant workstation (hardware reengineering) or the purchase of semi-finished parts (process reengineering). The framework has been tested in an Italian factory operating in sheet metal industry and has been completed by an economic evaluation.