The OPIS Framework for Modeling Manufacturing Systems

Abstract

In this paper we present a general framework for modeling manufacturing systems. Our interests are in knowledge-based scheduling and simulation of large-scale manufacturing environments, and these interests have significantly influenced the approach to modeling we have taken. The modeling framework is developed using object programming and frame-based representation techniques. It provides an extensible set of modeling primitives that emphasizes (1) specification of the full range of constraints that influence production management and control decisions, (2) the development and use of hierarchical models of manufacturing processes and required resources, and (3) a clear separation of control knowledge relating to resource allocation and manufacturing process management. The framework enables the construction of models that reflect the full complexity of actual manufacturing environments and are interpretable from both scheduling and simulation perspectives.