Experiences in implementing simulation-based support for operational decision making in semiconductor manufacturing

We describe a discrete event simulator that has been deployed in a 300 mm wafer fabrication plant to aid short-term, operational decision-making. Our simulator has been designed and calibrated to produce reliable predictions over simulation horizons as short as a few days to several weeks. It has been automated to run daily, without the need for manually provided data. We provide motivating examples illustrating the need for short-term predictions, and share insights on aspects of the simulator design that contribute to its usefulness and accuracy. Finally, we include several examples of how the simulator has been used to aid operational and tactical decision-making at the IBM wafer fabrication plant in East Fishkill, NY. © 2011 Inderscience Enterprises Ltd.