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Get Started with ProModel

Updated on Dec 26,2023

Get Started with ProModel

Table of Contents

  1. Introduction
  2. Overview of Simulation and Pro Model
  3. Building a Simple Model in Pro Model
    • 3.1 Creating Locations
    • 3.2 Creating Entities
    • 3.3 Defining Arrivals
    • 3.4 Designing Processing and Routing
    • 3.5 Adding Processing Times and Move Times
  4. Running The Simulation and Analyzing Results
  5. Introducing Variability to the Model
  6. Conclusion

Introduction

Simulation is a powerful tool used to predict the performance of complex systems. In this quick start video, we will explore how to build a simple model using Pro Model, a feature-rich discrete-event simulation tool. The video assumes that You are new to simulation, but you may also want to view the Process Simulator quick start video for a more basic introduction.

Overview of Simulation and Pro Model

Simulation involves breaking down a system into its individual components and representing the variability within each part. By creating a simulation model and running experiments on the system, we can evaluate the impact of proposed changes and determine their effectiveness.

Pro Model, a plug-in to Microsoft Visio, is a comprehensive simulation tool that allows users to define and analyze complex systems. It shares the same simulation engine as Process Simulator but offers a more feature-rich experience.

Building a Simple Model in Pro Model

To build a model in Pro Model, we need to follow a step-by-step process. This section will guide you through creating locations, entities, defining arrivals, designing processing and routing, and adding processing times and move times.

3.1 Creating Locations

The first step is to define the locations within our model. Pro Model provides a Build Menu that contains all the necessary tools. We start by creating an arrival location using the counter option and specifying its capacity. We can also add graphics to represent the locations visually.

3.2 Creating Entities

Next, we need to define the entities that will flow through our model. Pro Model allows us to Create a table to define the entities and a graphics library to choose their visual representation. In this example, we will use a gear graphic for our entities.

3.3 Defining Arrivals

Arrivals determine when and how entities enter the simulation model. By creating arrival records, we can specify the entity, the location of arrival, the quantity of entities, the first time of arrival, the occurrences, and the frequency. In our simple model, we will have one entity arrive at a time with a frequency of every five minutes.

3.4 Designing Processing and Routing

Processing defines what happens to the entities in each location, while routing indicates the path the entities will follow. We create processing and routing records by clicking on the respective locations and defining the flow. For our model, the entities will move from the arrival location to the lathe, then to the buffer, and finally to the inspect location.

3.5 Adding Processing Times and Move Times

Processing times determine how long entities stay in each location, while move times represent the time it takes for entities to move between locations. We can specify processing times and move times by adding logic to each Record. In our simple model, we will set the processing time to four minutes at both the lathe and inspect locations, and the move time to one minute between each location.

Running the Simulation and Analyzing Results

Once the model is built, we can run the simulation and analyze the results. Pro Model allows us to set the simulation time, in this case, two hours. After running the simulation, we can see how long entities spent in the system and understand the flow and processing times.

Introducing Variability to the Model

To make our model more realistic, we can introduce variability. By changing the processing times to follow a uniform distribution, we simulate the variability in the system. We can then Rerun the simulation and observe how the results differ from the previous run.

Conclusion

Simulation, with tools like Pro Model, offers a way to predict the performance of complex systems. By breaking down the system into components, defining the flow, and introducing variability, we can evaluate proposed changes and optimize efficiency. This quick start video serves as an introduction to building a simple model in Pro Model, but there is much more to explore in this powerful simulation tool.

Highlights

  • Simulation is a powerful tool for predicting the performance of complex systems
  • Pro Model is a feature-rich discrete-event simulation tool
  • Building a model in Pro Model involves creating locations, defining entities, specifying arrivals, designing processing and routing, and adding processing times and move times
  • Variability can be introduced to make the model more realistic
  • Simulation allows for the evaluation of proposed changes and optimization of efficiency

FAQ

Q: What is simulation? A: Simulation involves creating a model of a system and running experiments to predict its performance.

Q: Why should I use Pro Model? A: Pro Model is a comprehensive simulation tool that allows you to define and analyze complex systems with a user-friendly interface.

Q: How can I introduce variability to my simulation model? A: Variability can be introduced by changing processing times or other parameters to follow probability distributions.

Q: Can I run experiments and evaluate proposed changes with Pro Model? A: Yes, Pro Model allows you to run simulation experiments and analyze the results to determine the effectiveness of proposed changes.

Q: Is Pro Model suitable for beginners in simulation? A: Yes, Pro Model offers a quick start video and tutorial to guide beginners in building their first simulation model.

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