Integration of neurocomputing and system simulation for modeling continuous improvement systems in manufacturing

The use of a neural network embedded in a larger general-purpose simulation system (GPSS) simulation used to model continuous improvement systems (CIS) policies in a factory setting is described. The neural network is used to accelerate the identification of an effective CIS policy by providing a more realistic simulation framework. The interface between general simulation theory and neural network simulation is examined. Neural networks, when embedded in larger general-purpose simulations, are found to offer the potential for improving on the capabilities of those simulations, in particular manufacturing simulations for continuous improvement of production processes.