Arena (software)

For the chess software, see Arena (chess).

Arena is a discrete event simulation software simulation and automation software developed by Systems Modeling and acquired by Rockwell Automation in 2000[1]. It uses the SIMAN processor and simulation language. As of November 2011, it is in version 13.9. It has been suggested that Arena may join other Rockwell software packages under the "FactoryTalk" brand.[2].

In Arena, the user builds an experiment model by placing modules (boxes of different shapes) that represent processes or logic. Connector lines are used to join these modules together and specifies the flow of entities. While modules have specific actions relative to entities, flow, and timing, the precise representation of each module and entity relative to real-life objects is subject to the modeler. Statistical data, such as cycle time and WIP (work in process) levels, can be recorded and outputted as reports.

Arena integrates very well to Microsoft technologies. It includes Visual Basic for Applications so models can be further automated if specific algorithms are needed. It also supports importing Microsoft Visio flowcharts, as well as reading from or outputting to Excel spreadsheets and Access databases. Hosting ActiveX controls is also supported.

Contents

Uptake

Arena is used by many large companies engaged in simulating business processes. Some of these firms include General Motors, UPS, IBM, Nike, Xerox, Lufthansa, Ford Motor Company, and others[3]. It has been noted that creating a simulation can require more time at the beginning of a project, but quicker installations and product optimizations can reduce overall project time.[4] Arena can simulate diverse operation types, including call centers,[5] for optimizing the use of agents and phone lines, the size and routing of pancake stacks in a food processing facility [6], and the design of a gold mine.[7]

The original Arena Software was developed in Cambridge UK by completely different individuals as a Job Costing and Accounting system. It was originally programmed via Silicon Office, them moved to Modula-2 and finally to Microsoft Visual Basic. It was sold to BP, BAE systems and John Lewis as well as many architectural firms. Arena Software closed in 2000. The trademark was left to lapse at that time.

Commercial Software Editions [8]

Academic Software Editions [10]

Textbooks using Arena

See also

References

  1. ^ http://www.amrresearch.com/Content/View.asp?pmillid=7236
  2. ^ http://www.automationworld.com/webonly-1634
  3. ^ http://www.arenasimulation.com/solutions/default.asp
  4. ^ http://www.mmsmag.co.za/articledetail.aspx?id=254
  5. ^ http://www.callcentermagazine.com/article/CCM20010227S0011
  6. ^ http://www.mmsmag.co.za/articledetail.aspx?id=254
  7. ^ http://www.miningweekly.com/article/new-goldmine-is-all-set-to-hit-the-ground-running-1999-03-12
  8. ^ http://arenasimulation.com/Products_Products.aspx
  9. ^ http://arenasimulation.com/Products_Professional_Edition.aspx
  10. ^ http://arenasimulation.com/Academic%20Programs_Academic_Programs.aspx

External links