Process items in different sized batches

[michela_08]

[ FlexSim 20.0.10 ]

Hi,

In my model, 3 items enter a buffer Queue2 and move to next station. I want two of the parts of same item_type = HB to be processed in the machine together. For example, Part 1 sits in the machine and has to wait for the Part 2 to enter the machine. After both parts are available then the processing time should start in the machine, after processing is complete the two parts need to move out separately to next station. Whereas the Part 3 does not have any constraint just moves into the machine and gets processed alone.

I have considered using the combiner and separator for first two parts, but what do I do for the 3rd part? The 3rd part does not need a combiner and separator because of no condition.

How do I achieve this using only in one machine or is there any other way to do this? Please help

[Jeanette_Fullmer]

Hi @michela-08,

It's hard to know how to help without looking at your model. To receive a more accurate solution, please post your model or a sample model that demonstrates your question.

Proprietary models can be posted as a private question visible only to FlexSim U.S. support staff. You can also contact your local FlexSim distributor for phone or email help.

[Jeanette_Fullmer · Accepted solution]

Your combiner and separator is a great idea for part 1 and part 2. You can add an on entry trigger that adjusts components list depending on the first item to enter, so in the case of part 3 it would set the component list value to 0.

If you wanted this all to be one processor then you will need to use process flow.

[michela_08]

Hey @Jeanette F , i will share you the sample model. Apologies for not sharing a sample model.

[michela_08]

Hi @Jeanette F

I have attached a sample model. The parts from Source 1 and Source 2 are with Item_label = "HB" and these parts needs to be processed together after they leave the common buffer to next station. How can I use a combiner and separator if only the Queue is the input for the combiner? I want those 2 parts to be processed with same time in the machine they enter while the 3rd part coming from source 3 does not have any condition but just process alone.

I want to do all this in one processor using processor. Can you send me a sample model of how to achieve this?

[Jeanette_Fullmer]

Your sample model did not upload.

I created a sample model that hopefully answers your question. I created both scenarios. One thing to note is that in the example with the combiner, I kept things item Type based on part number you mentioned.

In the second case where there is just a processor I assigned part 1 and 2 the same label type.

Process in varying batches.fsm

[michela_08]

Thank you @Jeanette F

The second method of the processor is really helpful, but I had a doubt will I be able to retain the part details after they are processed together and when they move out?

Part details such as PartNumber, destination and item_type?

I want to retain these details after it exists Processor 1 for all the parts exiting from the processor. Is this possible?

[Jeanette_Fullmer]

Hello @michela_08,

If those are labels on the item then yes they do still exist. The flow items are not joined so the labels are maintained.

[michela_08]

okay thank you @Jeanette F

In the batch of the process flow. There is a Quantities by case.

In my case, I will be using in this way:

The cases should take it in this way. The cases take only int values and this way it is not working

How to do this?

[Jeanette_Fullmer]

Hello @michela_08,

If you look at the code by selecting the scroll icon, you will see that it uses a switch function instead of if statements. The switch function will only work with integers. Newer version of FlexSim have the by case option using the if statement so Variant variables can be used. The following code can be pasted in the script window.

Object current = param(1);
treenode activity = param(2);
Token token = param(3);
Variant groupValue = param(4);  //Group By may be a number, treenode or string
treenode quantifier = param(5);
treenode processFlow = ownerobject(activity);


Variant value = token.Type;


if (value == "L") {
return 2;
}

if (value == "H") {
return 2;
}

if (value == "S") {
return 1;
}


return 1;

[michela_08]

Hi thank you @Jeanette F

But I have this condition that all the parts having Item_type == "L" should be processed together at Processor 1.

and all parts of Item_type == "H" should be processed together at Processor 1.

but in my model, this is not happening. If one is Item_type == "L" is ready then it has to wait till other comes and then should get processed at once.

Can you please tell me what is wrong?

Process in batches1.fsm

[Jeanette_Fullmer]

Hello @michela_08,

The last detail for the batch activity is to tell what to group it by. In this case it would the type label.

[michela_08]

Thank you @Jeanette F . It worked!!!