Utilising Kronecker Algebra to Detect Unexpected Behaviour in Distributed Systems

Abstract

Current industrial trends require flexible and reconfigurable manufacturing systems, with Cyber-Physical Production Systems (CPPS) playing a crucial role. However, the increased flexibility and decentralisation increase the risk of unexpected or emerging system behaviour. Message sequence charts (MSCs) have proven helpful in the early stages of system design to capture intended scenarios. This paper introduces a process that utilises MSCs to identify unexpected system behaviour. After synthesising the MSCs into finite state machines, the process suggests applying Kronecker algebra to verify intended and identify unintended scenarios. The process is illustrated by an example depicting an auto-lock mechanism. The paper concludes by outlining further research focusing on implementing the process and identifying emergence at runtime.