Teaching the Techniques of Computer Aided Production Management and Simulation Modelling

Abstract

A software package is described that attempts to develop students' knowledge of Computer Aided Production Management (CAPM) systems and an awareness of the power of the computer to predict the future by iteratively simulating individual workshop operations. It demonstrates the techniques of CAPM by means of manual simulation. Students then operate and adjust a simple computer simulation model and compare it with the manual exercise. Both versions are described and compared. The CAPM system is presently installed on the ACT Sirius and the IBM personal microcomputers. It consists of a series of basic programs and data files in four modules. There is wide scope for using both versions in degree courses in mechanical and production engineering and production management.