Specification of a batch plant using process algebra and Petri nets

Abstract

A modelling framework for general routing and resource allocation systems is presented. The task is to specify desired routes for individual objects (products, data packets, vehicles), which are to be served by a number of shared resources (machines, computers, communication links). Based on simple booking models for the resources and routing specifications for the objects, a controller that synchronizes the objects utilization of the available resources is automatically generated. A high level language is presented in order to simplify the specification of desired routes. This modelling language combines Petri nets and process algebra. Process operators are introduced for specification of alternative, synchronization, start and stop process, and restriction, which are applied in order to model join and split operations. This language results in a compact and efficient representation of complex routing specifications.