Volume 2 Issue 4 pp. 873-890 Fall, 2011


A proposition of a manufactronic network approach for intelligent and flexible manufacturing systems


Fernando Almeida , Paulo Dias, Gil Gonçalves, Michael Peschl and Michael Hoffmeister
The XPRESS project introduces a completely new scalable concept of a manufactronic networked factory, which is composed by a co-ordinated team of specialized autonomous objects (Manufactrons), each knowing how to do a certain process optimally. This knowledge based concept integrated the complete chain: production configuration (decrease of ramp-up time of at least 50%), multi-variant production line (varying types and volumes on a single line) and 100% quality monitoring. The manufactronic networked architecture allows continuous process improvement, and will be able to anticipate and to respond to rapidly changing consumer needs, producing high-quality products in adequate quantities while reducing costs. This concept is demonstrated in the automotive, aeronautics and electrical industry but can be transferred to nearly all production processes.


DOI: 10.5267/j.ijiec.2011.05.006

Keywords: Intelligent manufacturing, Production unit, Quality systems, Workflow models
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