Title: A generic platform to address event-based problems for universal applications: supervisory control and simulation

Authors: Alireza Mousavi, Peter Broomhead, Rama K. Devagiri

Addresses: Electronic and Computer Engineering Division, School of Engineering and Design, Brunel University, Uxbridge UB8 3PH, UK. ' Electronic and Computer Engineering Division, School of Engineering and Design, Brunel University, Uxbridge UB8 3PH, UK. ' Distributed Systems – UNIX Services, Server Management Group, TIAA-CREF, Charlotte, USA

Abstract: This paper proposes the framework and implementation architecture of a combined real-time shopfloor data collection (monitor) and Discrete Event Simulation (DES) system. It highlights the practical implementation and potential benefits of using predictive (multipass) simulation in combination with real-time Data Acquisition (DAQ) in dealing with the complexity of manufacturing environments. Normally, by nature, these environments face unpredictable events that challenge their predetermined plans and schedules. The proposed framework makes the development of a generic hybrid control capability for flexible manufacturing environments possible. This paper describes a solution that combines the advantages of real-time shopfloor control and DAQ systems and mathematical modelling tools such as DES that rely on historical data for improved system performance. It bridges the gap that currently exists between shopfloor level control/monitoring systems and higher level enterprise information systems such as Material Requirement Planning (MRP/MRP II) and Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP).

Keywords: discrete event simulation; shopfloor control; systems architecture; supervisory control; data acquisition; hybrid control; flexible manufacturing.

DOI: 10.1504/IJISE.2008.017420

International Journal of Industrial and Systems Engineering, 2008 Vol.3 No.3, pp.257 - 276

Published online: 07 Mar 2008 *

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