Flexible Automation and Integrated Manufacturing 1998

ISBN Print: 978-1-56700-118-1

THE ARCHITECTURAL FOUNDATIONS FOR AGENT-BASED SHOP FLOOR CONTROL

DOI: 10.1615/FAIM1998.650
pages 725-735

Abstract

The emerging theory regarding Holonic Manufacturing Systems (HMS) presents a advantageous theoretical foundation for the control system of the manufacturing system of the future. Previous research, at the Department, has demonstrated how company tailored shop floor control can be developed by applying simulation and cell control enabling technologies. In order to continue this research effort new concepts and theories for shop floor control are investigated. This paper reviews the multi-agent concept aimed at investigating its potential use in shop floor control systems. The paper will also include a survey of the ongoing research on HMS, and the current results regarding the development of the Holonic Multi-cell Control System (HoMuCS) architecture and methodology. Additionally, issues regarding the feasibility and extent of application of agents in the HoMuCS architecture will be discussed. We will argue that the HoMuCS architecture can be realised by using multi-agent technology, and that it is also the required foundation for implementation of agent technology in manufacturing system control. The work is based on a theoretical study of new manufacturing system theories, research of agent and multi-agent technology, two case studies and development of a prototype.