An integrated model driven approach in support of next generation

Shortened product life cycles and globalization have induced dynamism and uncertainty into world markets. Hence manufacturing enterprises (MEs) can gain competitive advantage from being reconfigurable. But appropriate application of agile and lean Manufacturing philosophies must complement the application of reconfiguration techniques. However, choosing and applying the best philosophies and techniques are far from being well understood and well structured processes because most MEs deploy complex and unique configurations of processes and resource systems, and seek economies of scope and scale in respect of a number of distinctive product flows. It follows that systematic methods of achieving model driven configuration of component based manufacturing systems are required to design, engineer and change next generation MEs. This paper discusses research aimed at developing and prototyping a model-driven environment for the design, optimization and control of reconfigurable manufacturing enterprises with an embedded capability to handle various types of change. The developed environment supports the engineering of common types of strategic, tactical and operational process found in many MEs. Also reported are initial findings of manufacturing case study work in which coherent multi-perspective models of a specific ME have facilitated process reengineering and associated resource system configuration. The paper outlines key areas for future research including the need for research into unified modelling approaches and interoperation of partial models in support of complex organisation design and change (OD&C).