An Ontology-Based Smart Production Management System

The evolution of manufacturing technologies has allowed for rapid prototype development and easy transfer of ideas from design to production, even in the convenience of the home office (via 3D printers). It has also created an unstable market environment. This situation calls for novel solutions in manufacturing that allow high adaptability and responsiveness. The use of smart, agent-based systems empowered by semantic technologies could provide the solution. The authors' ontology-based smart production system is based on the use of agents. They present both the system architecture and a framework for deployment under a living lab environment. They also give special focus to alleviating obstacles met in the small-series-like ramp-up of highly customized products, such as aircraft.