production and logistics systems. Furthermore, it is
possible to classify the production order sequence
faster than with a simulation model. For the case
study a complete simulation run took 20 seconds
while a single classification required 0.01 seconds.
Although these figures only apply in this specific case
study. Further research on time-savings is required.
This enables faster decision-making as compared to a
simulation model in the presented case study. Also, it
is shown that the framework applied is suitable for
extend an insufficient data basis (quantity and
quality) of processes from production and logistics
systems with additional data in order to train an ML
model. With these results and the provided
limitations, the RQ can be answered: Key elements of
the framework are a well described problem
statement based on target KPIs and control variables,
generated simulation input data based on the
identified control variables, a validated simulation
model for data generation as well as suitable data
preparation step for an appropriate ML model.
The framework can also be applied to other
control processes within production and logistics
systems. Nevertheless, there are still some
limitations. First of all, it should be mentioned that,
there is still room for improvement regarding the ML
model. The determination of suitable AI models with
regard to this specific problem of production order
sequencing has already been studied by (Rissmann et
al., 2022). It can be stated that the application of more
specific ML models, such as deep neural networks,
could provide even better results. Further
investigation is expected to demonstrate how the
application works on other random problems (e.g.,
failures, downtimes etc.) within production and
logistics systems. Furthermore, only the classification
of throughput in units was tested. For other KPIs,
such as the prediction of the production time of
individual units or lead time, the simulation-based
data may have to be enriched.
6 SUMMARY AND OUTLOOK
In this paper, we present a framework that supports
the implementation and training of ML models based
on generated datasets from production and logistics
simulations. To achieve this, the input and output data
of a simulation model are used for training. Thus, ML
models can be developed even in processes with
limited data or insufficient data quality, which can
then be used for decision support. By applying the
approach within an exemplary case study, the ML
model was able to increase the average throughput.
In future research activities, the existing
simulation model is to be supplemented by further
influencing factors such as downtimes and failures.
This will allow the simulation model to reflect a real
production and logistics system even more
accurately. The next research steps will be the
implementation of a data-oriented problem
identification and optimization approach based on
KPIs as well as another verification of the approach
in a real production and logistics system.
FUNDING
This research was supported by KIProLog project
funded by the Bavarian State Ministry of Science and
Art (FKZ: H.2-F1116.LN33/3).
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