Batcher Node
TLDR: Batcher nodes collect individual agents, hold them until a batch rule is met, then release the grouped work downstream. Use them for pallets, ovens, lab runs, paperwork bundles, or any process that waits for a group before moving.
When To Use A Batcher
Use a Batcher when work cannot move one item at a time. Common examples include:
- Warehouse pallets: wait until enough boxes are ready to load together.
- Batch ovens: collect parts before a heat-treat or bake cycle.
- Lab tests: run samples together after enough have arrived.
- Paperwork review: process a stack of forms in one review window.
Main Settings
| Setting | What It Controls | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|
| Batch size | How many agents to collect before release. | 12 trays per oven, 20 boxes per pallet. |
| Timeout | Maximum wait before releasing a partial batch. | Ship what is ready by the cutoff time. |
| Release mode | Whether release requires a full batch, timeout, or either condition. | Strict batch work versus time-sensitive service work. |
Modeling Notes
Batching often improves downstream utilization, but it can increase customer or item waiting time. The tradeoff is exactly why it is worth simulating.
What to watch
After adding a Batcher, compare average wait time, throughput, and downstream utilization. A bigger batch can make a machine look efficient while making upstream queues worse.