Block diagram-based modeling of manufacturing systems using

A novel approach to modeling of manufacturing systems is proposed. The model is based on block diagrams. The block can be a single machine, a single part or a factory. The interconnection of blocks in the block diagram correspond to routing of parts and resources through the manufacturing subsystems. The model is hierarchial - a network of blocks can be combined into one block that has the same input/output structure. The model is described using max-plus algebra, which provides means for calculating system's performance characteristics.