Message-passing architecture and its construction in object-oriented rapid modeling for automated manufacturing system simulation

Abstract

To develop a simulator for automated manufacturing systems using an object-oriented modeling paradigm, we have researched the message-passing architecture and methodology of rapid model construction. For the message-passing methodology, we propose a modified hierarchical control architecture, modified to allow signal paths between adjacent job flow-connected resources. Model libraries using the proposed architecture have been described with DEVS formalism and have been implemented based on DEVSim++ so that they support the hierarchical and modular concept. In order to support the rapid modeling concept, we have designed a prototype simulator in which the entire message-passing architecture is constructed from limited and partial information in order to reduce modeling overload for users. By showing a sample modeling procedure of a system, we demonstrate the interesting features of the developed simulator.