How can I Optimize the material unloading docks in FlexSim ?

[shashanksiddapur]

I want to build a simulation model in which I want to run optimization scenario to get optimized docks so as to have minimum distance traveled by Material Handling Equipment.

The inputs that I have is current dock allocation to respective station queues.

[gabriel_dom2]

To accomplish what you want with Flexsim you'll need to have Optimizer unlocked by a special license.

Your question is more an Operational Research problem than a Simulation problem anyway.

Google for "Operational Research - Shortest path problem"

[JordanLJohnson]

Are you trying to determine the best location for the docks (optimize the layout) or are you trying to choose how best to use the docks?

[shashanksiddapur]

@jordon.johnson I am trying to determine best location for the docks (optimize the layout)

[braydn_t · Accepted solution]

Hey @Shashank S

I was going through older questions and noticed that this did not have an answer. I apologize that this slipped through the cracks. If you have not resolved your question, hopefully this answer helps you. If not, please reply and tag me @Braydn T and I will help you.

There are a couple ways you can do this. One is the Optimizer which does require an additional license. Another is by using the Experimenter. There are tutorials on the experimenter here.

In your case, you could change the location of the Queue in the tree to be set with Global Variables, and then add or subtract from those variables in the scenario tab of the Experimenter. You will also need some form of measurable output. This is all covered in the tutorial I linked. Once you run those scenarios, the Experimenter will give you outputs and could help you move towards an ideal location.

I hope this helps!