7,847 research outputs found
Process Planning Optimization In Reconfigurable Manufacturing Systems
Trends and perspectives in dynamic environments point towards a need for optimal
operating levels in reconfigurable manufacturing activities. Central to the goal of
meeting this need is the issue of appropriate techniques for manufacturing process
planning optimization in reconfigurable manufacturing, i.e. (i) what decision making
models and (ii) what computational techniques, provide an optimal manufacturing
process planning solution in a multidimensional decision variables space? Conventional
optimization techniques are not robust, hence; they are not suitable for handling
multidimensional search spaces. On the other hand, process planning optimization for
reconfigurable manufacturing is not amenable to classical modeling approaches due to
the presence of complex system dynamics. Therefore, this study explores how to model
reconfigurable manufacturing activities in an optimization perspective and how to
develop and select appropriate non-conventional optimization techniques for
reconfigurable process planning.In this study, a new approach to modeling Manufacturing Process Planning
Optimization (MPPO) was developed by extending the concept of manufacturing
optimization through a decoupled optimization method. The uniqueness of this
approach lies in embedding an integrated scheduling function into a partially integrated
process planning function in order to exploit the strategic potentials of flexibility and
reconfigurability in manufacturing systems. Alternative MPPO models were constructed
and variances associated with their utilization analyzed. Five (5) Alternative Algorithm
Design Techniques (AADTs) were developed and investigated for suitability in
providing process planning solutions suitable for reconfigurable manufacturing. The
five (5) AADTs include; a variant of the simulated annealing algorithm that implements
heuristic knowledge at critical decision points, two (2) cooperative search schemes
based on a “loose hybridization” of the Boltzmann Machine algorithm with (i)
simulated annealing, and (ii) genetic algorithm search techniques, and two (2) modified
genetic algorithms.
The comparative performances of the developed AADTs when tasked to solve an
instance of a MPPO problem were analyzed and evaluated. In particular, the relative
performances of the novel variant of simulated annealing in comparison to: (a) (i) a
simulated annealing search, and (ii) a genetic search in the Boltzmann Machine
Architecture, and (b) (i) a modified genetic algorithm and (ii) a genetic algorithm with a
customized threshold operator that implements an innovative extension of the diversity
control mechanism to gene and genome levels; were pursued in this thesis.Results show that all five (5) AADTs are capable of stable and asymptotic convergence
to near optimal solutions in real time. Analysis indicates that the performances of the
implemented variant of simulated annealing are comparable to those of other
optimization techniques developed in this thesis. However, a computational study
shows that; in comparison to the simulated annealing technique, significant
improvements in optimization control performance and quality of computed solutions
can be realized through implementing intelligent techniques. As evidenced by the
relative performances of the implemented cooperative schemes, a genetic search is
better than a simulated annealing search in the Boltzmann Machine Architecture. In
addition, little performance gain can be realized through parallelism in the Boltzmann
Machine Architecture. On the other hand, the superior performance of the genetic
algorithm that implements an extended diversity control mechanism demonstrates that
more competent genetic algorithms can be designed through customized operators.
Therefore, this study has revealed that extending manufacturing optimization concepts
through a decoupled optimization method is an effective modeling approach that is
capable of handling complex decision scenarios in reconfigurable manufacturing
activities. The approach provides a powerful decision framework for process planning
optimization activities of a multidimensional nature. Such an approach can be
implemented more efficiently through intelligent techniques. Hence; intelligent
techniques can be utilized in manufacturing process planning optimization strategies
that aim to improve operating levels in reconfigurable manufacturing with the resultant
benefits of improved performance levels
Virtual manufacturing: prediction of work piece geometric quality by considering machine and set-up
Lien vers la version éditeur: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/0951192X.2011.569952#.U4yZIHeqP3UIn the context of concurrent engineering, the design of the parts, the production planning and the manufacturing facility must be considered simultaneously. The design and development cycle can thus be reduced as manufacturing constraints are taken into account as early as possible. Thus, the design phase takes into account the manufacturing constraints as the customer requirements; more these constraints must not restrict the creativity of design. Also to facilitate the choice of the most suitable system for a specific process, Virtual Manufacturing is supplemented with developments of numerical computations (Altintas et al. 2005, Bianchi et al. 1996) in order to compare at low cost several solutions developed with several hypothesis without manufacturing of prototypes. In this context, the authors want to predict the work piece geometric more accurately by considering machine defects and work piece set-up, through the use of process simulation. A particular case study based on a 3 axis milling machine will be used here to illustrate the authors’ point of view. This study focuses on the following geometric defects: machine geometric errors, work piece positioning errors due to fixture system and part accuracy
Reconfigurability Function Deployment in Software Development
In the forthcoming highly dynamic and complex business environment high-speed and cost-effective development of software applications for targeting a precise, unique and momentary set of requirements (no more-no less) associated to a customized business case will bring sig-nificant benefits both for producers and users. This requires a life cycle change-oriented ap-proach in software development. In this respect, designing software with intrinsic evolutionary resources for reconfiguration represents the sound approach. A methodology for concurrent deployment of reconfigurability characteristics in software applications is introduced in this paper. Its potential is exemplified in a case study dealing with web-based software tools to support systematic product innovation projects.Reconfigurability, Software Development, Innovation, TRIZ, RAD
A high level e-maintenance architecture to support on-site teams
Emergent architectures and paradigms targeting reconfigurable manufacturing systems increasingly rely on intelligent modules to maximize the robustness and responsiveness of modern installations. Although intelligent behaviour significantly minimizes the occurrence of faults and breakdowns it does not exclude them nor can prevent equipment’s normal wear. Adequate maintenance is fundamental to extend equipments’ life cycle. It is of major importance the ability of each intelligent device to take an active role in maintenance support. Further this paradigm shift towards “embedded intelligence”, supported by cross platform technologies, induces relevant organizational and functional changes on local maintenance teams. On the one hand, the possibility of outsourcing maintenance activities, with the warranty of a timely response, through the use of pervasive networking technologies and, on the other hand, the optimization of local maintenance staff are some examples of how IT is changing the scenario in maintenance. The concept of e-maintenance is, in this context, emerging as a new discipline with defined socio-economic challenges. This paper proposes a high level maintenance architecture supporting maintenance teams’ management and offering contextualized operational support. All the functionalities hosted by the architecture are offered to the remaining system as network services. Any intelligent module, implementing the services’ interface, can report diagnostic, prognostic and maintenance recommendations that enable the core of the platform to decide on the best course of action.manufacturing systems, platform technologies, maintenance
Security aspects in cloud based condition monitoring of machine tools
In the modern competitive environments companies must have rapid production systems that are able to deliver parts that satisfy highest quality standards. Companies have also an increased need for advanced machines equipped with the latest technologies in maintenance to avoid any reduction or interruption of production. Eminent therefore is the need to monitor the health status of the manufacturing equipment in real time and thus try to develop diagnostic technologies for machine tools. This paper lays the foundation for the creation of a safe remote monitoring system for machine tools using a Cloud environment for communication between the customer and the maintenance service company. Cloud technology provides a convenient means for accessing maintenance data anywhere in the world accessible through simple devices such as PC, tablets or smartphones. In this context the safety aspects of a Cloud system for remote monitoring of machine tools becomes crucial and is, thus the focus of this pape
Modular Self-Reconfigurable Robot Systems
The field of modular self-reconfigurable robotic systems addresses the design, fabrication, motion planning, and control of autonomous kinematic machines with variable morphology. Modular self-reconfigurable systems have the promise of making significant technological advances to the field of robotics in general. Their promise of high versatility, high value, and high robustness may lead to a radical change in automation. Currently, a number of researchers have been addressing many of the challenges. While some progress has been made, it is clear that many challenges still exist. By illustrating several of the outstanding issues as grand challenges that have been collaboratively written by a large number of researchers in this field, this article has shown several of the key directions for the future of this growing fiel
Agile MPC system linking manufacturing and market strategies
Increasing complexity and interdependency in manufacturing enterprises require an agile manufacturing paradigm. This paper considers a dynamic control approach for linking manufacturing strategy with market strategy through a reconfigurable manufacturing planning and control (MPC) system to support agility in this context. A comprehensive MPC model capable of adopting different MPC strategies through distributed controllers of inventory, capacity, and WIP is presented. A hierarchical supervisory controller (referred to as decision logic unit, DLU) that intakes the high-level strategic market decisions and constraints together with feedback of the current manufacturing system state (WIP, production, and inventory levels) and optimally manages the distributed controllers is introduced. The DLU architecture with its three layers and their different functionalities is discussed showing how they link the higher management level to the operational level to satisfy the required demand. A case study for an automatic PCB assembly factory is implemented to demonstrate the applicability of the whole approach. In addition, a comparative cost analysis study is carried out to compare between the developed agile MPC system and classical-inventory- and capacity-based MPC policies in response to different demand patterns. Results showed that the developed agile MPC policy is as cost effective as the inventory-based MPC policy in demand patterns with steady trends, as cost effective as capacity-based MPC in turbulent demand patterns, and far superior than both classical MPC polices in mixed-demand patterns
New Shop Floor Control Approaches for Virtual Enterprises
The virtual enterprise paradigm seems a fit response to face market instability and the volatile nature of business opportunities increasing enterprise’s interest in similar forms of networked organisations. The dynamic environment of a virtual enterprise requires that partners in the consortium own reconfigurable shop floors. This paper presents new approaches to shop floor control that meet the requirements of the new industrial paradigms and argues on work re-organization at shop floor level.virtual enterprise; networked organisations
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