An Agent-Oriented Design Methodology for RFID Improved Manufacturing Control

Abstract

Recent research on highly distributed control methods for complex systems has produced a series of new philosophies based on negotiation which bring together process engineering with computer science. Among these control philosophies the ones based on multi-agent systems (MAS) have become especially relevant. However these MAS models have the drawback of an excessive dependence on up-to-date information about the products and other elements that move within the system. However a new technology has come out that can help solve this problem: radio-frequency identification enhanced information management systems (RFID-IMS). RFID-IMS technology is being rapidly introduced in industry mainly for logistic purposes. But, once these systems are in place, manufacturing can benefit so deeply that MAS is likely to become a realistic solution to highly increase flexibility and capacity in manufacturing environments. Solution that can now be dubbed as: RFID-enhanced intelligent manufacturing systems (RFID-IMS II).