Performance Evaluation of Automated Guided Vehicles: Use Case of using OMNeT++ in a Master's Thesis

Abstract

OMNeT++ as a discrete event simulator is widely used in combination with the INET framework to simulate communication networks. For students, the limited time frame designated for their master’s thesis is usually a challenge. In particular, because not only an implementation but a scientific contribution is expected as well. Within this paper we present an approach on how OMNeT++ can be used to solve the research question given in the context of a thesis. The exemplary application scenario under consideration here is based on Automated guided vehicles (AGV) which use a WLAN network to exchange information about new obstacles and their localization as such with a central server. As the performance indicators of communication networks are not yet considered while planning such setups, the effect of the network on the operation of the AGVs has to be evaluated. Especially in scenarios with a large number of AGVs the scalability of the WLAN is of interest. We show how the simulation model is parametrized based on a field analysis. With the aid of the experimental data, the different types of traffic are distinguished and modelled according to probability distributions. Based on the scenario under consideration and the envisioned large scale setups, a simulation model is implemented. In the evaluation we present exemplary results. We conclude with an explanation of the grading scheme of master’s theses to highlight how the scientific approach presented is taken into account here.