Creating multiple items and pulling from queues at a specific rate using process flows

[jlandrum4QA5V]

I want to build a model to track two products being produced on one line. Part A is produced at 214 pieces per hour. Part B is produced at 189 pieces per hour. Part A is batched at 48 pieces and part B is 60. The storage queue for part A has a max content of 432 and the storage queue for part B has a max content of 360. I need to start the simulation with these queues full. I need a transporter to pull 1 batch from each storage every 30 minutes. The purpose of this model is to track how many times the machine has to do a change over, wait times, and to test the buffer zones (storage areas). I know I need to use process flows but I don't understand how to start. I have a attached a model I have started.

[kavika_faleumu]

Hey @jlandrum4QA5V, if you want to have an initial amount of inventory in a Queue, you can use Process Flow's Create Object activity.

You can start with a Schedule Source to create a token. Tokens flow through activities, executing whatever logic they contain. In this instance, I create 1 token at the beginning of the model. I give it labels for the initial inventories.

Then I use Create Object activities to create X number of boxes within their respective queue.

Now, when you start your model, you'll get an initial inventory in your Part A and Part B Storages.

Hope this helps!

[jlandrum4QA5V]

Yes, that helped with the initial stock. Any tips on troubleshooting why I'm getting an error message?

[kavika_faleumu]

Hey @jlandrum4QA5V, I think the issue is that you're trying to control the Transporter's movement with Process Flow and use it with 3D connections. The 3D connections (Part A Storage -> Sink1) using a transport will automatically allocate the Forklift. Your Process Flow was also using to grab boxes and wait. You'll have to go with one method only. Either remove all 3D connections so Process Flow can handle the logic for the transporter:

Or keep the 3D connections and disable the Process Flow source so the 3D connections have full control.

Most users prefer the Process Flow route because it allows more accurate and precise control of your processes, easier scaling, and centralization of model logic.

Hope this helps.

[jlandrum4QA5V]

I have disconnected the Transporter from the 3D model and rearranged everything, and I am no longer getting errors. If I want to control the rate/how many boxes the forklift collects how would i go about doing that? Is that something I need to do with the decide token or sub flow or list? I am kind of lost. Thanks for the help.

[kavika_faleumu]

If you want to control how many boxes the forklift collects over a period of time, you'll have to adjust factors like: how many boxes the forklift carries, how fast the forklift moves, and how many boxes are available in the queues it pulls from. There are several ways to do this.

In Process Flow, the nicest solution for adjusting this rate may be to use the Timed Travel activity. It allows you to specify how long it should take a Task Executor to travel to its destination from its current position. If you want to increase how many boxes the forklift carries, you can either pass an Array of items to the load activity (preferred) or use multiple load activities.

Hope this helps.