How advances in language design can benefit the integration of programmable controllers in a CIM architecture

Computer integrated manufacturing requires the harmonious cooperation of many software packages and services, from production control systems, CAD services, factory wide electronic mail, SCADA systems through to real time process control systems and plant sensors. Designing an open architecture to enable such a diverse range of software utilities from different vendors and running on different platforms to interoperate is going to be a major challenge. The paper addresses languages and standards that may provide part of that architecture.<
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