Simulation Optimization Decision Support for Ship Panel Lines

Greenwood, A., Hill. T. W., Vanguri, S., Walden, C., Miller, J., Eksioglu, B., & Jain, P. (2005). Simulation Optimization Decision Support for Ship Panel Lines. In M. E. Kuhl, N.M. Steiger, F.B. Armstrong, J.A. Joins (Eds.), Proceedings of the 2005 Winter Simulation Conference. Washington, DC.

Abstract

Simulation is a powerful tool that is used to understand and analyze the effect of changes on real systems. However, developing and using simulation models requires high-level engineering skills. The objective of this research is to put state-of-the-art problem-solving technologies into the hands of decision makers, e.g. planners and supervisors. This paper presents a Decision Support System (DSS) that utilizes discrete-event simulation models and heuristic op-timization, yet permits effective use without detailed knowledge of the methodologies. The system is developed for the Panel Shop at Northrop Grumman Ship Systems’ (NGSS) Pascagoula Operations; the shop is considered the bottleneck for the shipyard. This system focuses on two key opportunities for improvement: sequencing panel pro-duction and resource allocation among steps in the produc-tion processes. The DSS is designed to be reused in simi-lar operations at other shipyards and portions of the DSS may be used to apply simulation optimization to most in-dustries.