**5. Simulation**

In order to compare the current process with the proposal defined in the previous section, a discrete event simulation is used. In this case, it is a dynamic simulation model since it represents a system as it evolves over time and is stochastic since it has random variables. These state variables change only at discrete points in time at which certain parameters are scored. An event is defined as a situation that causes the state of the system to change instantaneously such as the arrival of an entity (for shoes) to an operation on the production line [4,28]. The simulation is executed with the methodology suggested by Kelton [28].

#### *5.1. System Definition*

At this stage, the current process of the decoration area is replicated. People, machinery, location, and working conditions are considered in the system, so that the model is as similar as possible to the real system. The objective is to compare, once the proposal has been made, whether it improves with respect to the current process.

#### *5.2. Model Formulation*

Current: To the simulation conceptual model, different criteria were analyzed through reengineering. The layout and the process diagram detailed in the previous stage and the human resources operating the process were considered (see Table 2). These workers operate in 8-h shifts by contemplating a 30-min break for eating. There are two flaming machines, one gloss machine, and two strapping machines.

Proposal: In the simulation model, the possibility of locating all the equipment and machinery with a U-type flow path was studied, and the company's two decorating lines are merged. The same machinery and human resources are used per operation as in the current system.


**Table 2.** Human resources by operation, elaborated by the author.
