Modular development of agile manufacturing control systems

In the near future, agile control systems will be a key element for the realization of intelligent manufacturing systems (IMS). Therefore, innovative development methodologies for the structured design and testing of complex control systems are mandatory. In the present work a development methodology is introduced, which is based on reference models that are compliant with emerging international standards, and exploit object-oriented concepts. By means of the proposed framework the definition of complex control systems is simplified, and the maintenance and reuse of designed control solutions is enhanced. In particular, the agility of the developed control systems is significantly improved. Furthermore, an application is presented, where the structured design of the control of an intelligent manufacturing system is discussed, so highlighting the benefits of the proposed framework. In particular, an innovative shoe plant is considered as an application example. Copyright © 2004 IFAC