Visual information is vital in communicating complex issues.
production schedules, to specify the order in which truss types would be made.throughput and timing data, such as processing times of stations, speed of conveyors and speed of cranes..
The data itself was not hard-coded into the model and instead read from an external data file, which made running multiple simulations for differing parameters a rapid process.. Several different scenarios were simulated in the model that were made up from combinations of options.This included different production schedules and whether transport timings were included, to test sensitivity of the system to these inputs.We also added scenarios for a +/- 20% variation on process timings (for example, the welding stations), using a triangular distribution.. We defined key outputs to measure performance of the system, including schedule completion time (i.e.
how long it took to manufacture all trusses in the schedule) and average daily throughput, for comparison against expected market demand.We recorded buffer accumulation to test for process bottlenecks, as well as the number of occupied painting stations to check capacity against what had been previously assumed.. Case study - modelling conclusion.
The model was able to support several assumptions made for the design of the process, such as the allowances for buffers and painting bays.
Additionally, the model could show that the system was sensitive to assumptions made for travel time of materials between stations, but that the different production schedules and variation in process time only resulted in slight variations in results.. With this simulation able to rapidly test multiple options and scenarios, the model can continue to be used to test further sensitivities in the process or be expanded to include even more of the system.Sustainable construction methods and designing for the circular economy are both possible, and essential.
Bryden Wood’s long-term commitment to design for manufacture and assembly (DfMA) shows how it is entirely possible to design varied and beautiful buildings using standardised, component-based designs that naturally promote reductions in materials, optimisation of components, reductions in embodied and operational carbon, and plan for end of life reuse..While the building sector is already becoming familiar with certain sustainable design principles, like reducing energy consumption and striving to improve a building’s energy efficiency, these less common, lean design methodologies should also be adopted as key sustainability principles that will help us.
combat climate change, cut carbon emissions and reach our net zero targets.By considering the entire life cycle of a building, and adopting circular construction methodologies, firms can begin to reflect some of the values found in contemporary, circular business models, helping to create a more sustainable built environment and future.. 1. https://www.gov.uk/government/statistics/uk-waste-data/uk-statistics-on-waste.