Software-Defined Value Stream Process Systems

The increasing volatility of the markets and the growing demand for customized products are the challenges for the production of the future to ensure maximum flexibility and adaptability. This paper presents the development of a cyber-physical chain linking product features to requirements and their fulfillment in machine and process hardware to form a modular, reconfigurable production system. The conception and realization of universal production systems is investigated. A modular construction kit of individually combinable hardware and associated software modules is presented. These modules are coordinated via a digital process chain that enables holistic simulations, optimizations, and planning based on digital twins. This system is based on software-defined manufacturing but extends it into autonomous reconfigurable machines. The virtual planning and commissioning of entire production lines aims to achieve efficient and adaptable production in volatile markets.