A simulation model for the seeding operation of rice nurseries in Taiwan has been developed. This model can be used as a tool to help managers of rice seedling centres to optimize their seeding operations in terms of worker allocation, speed ofthe seeding line and size of material hoppers. Also, the potential delays in the seeding system can clearly be detected through results of the simulation. These results indicate that the system seeding rate can be increased from 1571 to 1960 boxes/h which represents an increase of 24.8 % in the throughput. Thus, there is scope for the whole system to be operated more efficiently. Based on the projected yearly production of 1 584000 boxes per seedling centre, the improved system can save up to 33.3 workdays at each. The utilization rates of workers at 1960 boxes/h ranged between 53.3 and 73.9%. All are within a comfortable range of workload.
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