Object-oriented modeling and simulation of automated control in manufacturing

The object-oriented modeling of manufacturing systems as used in the development of a high-fidelity simulator is described. The separation of control and plant resources in the model allows explicit representation of the factory control system. Different control strategies can be readily tested within the simulation. The application of this approach to deadlock detection and resolution within a flexible manufacturing cell is discussed. The simulator also serves as a platform to investigate the integration of human resources and automated equipment in advanced manufacturing facilities, and to study supervisory control issues in automated systems. >