Computer Simulation

Discrete event simulation (DES) uses computer code to simulate a process as a sequence of discrete events. The order and parameters of such events can be changed and tested through the computer simulator which removes the need for organisations to perform expensive real-life tests. DES is used at the AMRC for scheduling tasks, shop-floor layout design and supply chain analysis. Alongside DES, AI is being used to further interrogate systems performing optimisation and uncertainty quantification. 

When a process can be described mathematically or empirically, it is possible to translate that into a computer code that aims to represent the physics of a process and its boundary conditions. This computer code can then be used to simulate the process, testing uncertain conditions and new scenarios. This is much cheaper than using materials and active processes for such tests whilst providing valuable information.  

Digital twins are digital representations of products or processes that use data to allow real-time decision making. The data may be integrated with a computer model, such as DES or physics-based simulators, or may be some simple or complex function of data. The digital twin can be representative of a part, a product, a facility, process or a system of processes. The digital twin should be well-defined and used appropriately and it is important to understand any associated uncertainty and its effect on decision-making.  

Finite element analysis is used to assess structural integrity during design. Currently implemented with off-the-shelf software this allows designs to be tested before construction. Ongoing research is looking at how to use this information in generative design and uncertainty quantification.