Simulation model to evaluate operational system performance and repair shop workloads at a navy field site

Abstract

This paper presents the background and procedures leading to development of a simulation model to analyze the impact of certain decision variables on operational system performance and workloads at the repair facility of a typical Navy field site. The research examined the impact of maintenance concepts, as implemented by changes in the decision variables associated with the potential application of Automatic Test Equipment. The initial effort consisted of data collection and field site surveys which culminated in defining a work flow model illustrating typical repair facility operations. The work flow model was translated into a computer simulation model. The baseline model contained all the values for failure rates, delay times, and probability decision parameters derived from the available field data. The simulation model was then exercised and the output data recorded for comparison with historical data to validate the model and provide a baseline for comparison as the decision parameters were varied. Of those variables exercised it appears that the Built-in-Test (BIT), or Self-test capability, is one of the more important design considerations in the original operating systems. The programming language used for the simulation model is entitled FLOW SIMULATOR, a UNIVAC version of GPSS.