A modular system architecture for the distributed simulation and control of assembly lines based on active databases

Automated assembly lines for highly innovative and individualized products lead to advanced requirements for flexibility and scalability. Especially the consistent transfer and reuse of processes requires the implementation of modern, scalable control systems in order to be prepared for product changes or changes of the underlying automation hardware. We propose a modular system architecture that not only allows for the distributed control but also for the distributed simulation of such assembly lines. Its flexibility is based on an agent-based architecture connected to an active communication hub and controlled by a central supervisor. To implement the system, we combined our expertise in robotic simulation and virtual production with our experience in GIS (geographic information systems) applications and object-oriented databases.