Processors Start when other processors are ready - Dependent Executers

[makenna_a]

[ FlexSim 23.0.4 ]

I have three 'prep' lines that all funnel into one machine. This machine has three lanes that all need be filled in order to run. I have the three lanes funneling into task individual processors, but I want the processors to wait until all three are full to run.

is there a way to do this?

[Jeanette_Fullmer · Accepted solution]

Hello @Makenna A,

I think the best way to do this would be to use a single combiner.

[makenna_a]

The middle line has a different processing time than the other two - would this still work?

[Jeanette_Fullmer]

So all 3 lines need to start at the same time but they all release at different times? If so then I have a different solution. Can you provide a model so I can show you?

[makenna_a]

Three lanes come together into one machine.

Each lane has different time intervals in the machine.

The machine cannot run unless all three lanes are 'stocked'.

The issue is the first run of the shift. Each lane needs to be fed to the machine before the machine can begin. Once the first cycle of all three lanes has begun, the machine will not stop, but the lanes need to continue to provide the machine with 3 continuous infeeds.

How do I simulate this machine so that it does not run unless all three lanes are stocked?

After the initial start-up of the machine, each lane exhausts its material at a different rate, but the hope is that the operator will have time to prep these lanes before exhausting its resources.

[Jeanette_Fullmer]

Hi @Makenna A,

I am happy to make my best attempt at creating this. However, it's hard 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 edit this post to become a private question). You can also contact your local FlexSim distributor for phone or email help.

[makenna_a]

Nobkground.fsm

[Jeanette_Fullmer]

Hello @Makenna A,

I apologize for the late reply. I added the three processors to a group. An event triggered soure in process flow looks at this group and creates a token when a flow item enters. This token has a reference to the flow item that entered and the processor the flow item entered. The token stops the processor so it can't process the item. The token then waits at a batch activity till 3 token have arrived. Once 3 tokens arrive at the batch they are released to resume the processor.

nobkground_1.fsm

[Jeanette_Fullmer]

Hi @Makenna A, was Jeanette F's answer helpful? If so, please click the "Accept" button at the bottom of their answer. Or if you still have questions, add a comment and we'll continue the conversation.

If we haven't heard back from you within 3 business days we'll auto-accept an answer, but you can always unaccept and comment back to reopen your question.