A Reference Architecture and Knowledge-Based Structures for Smart Manufacturing Networks

Smart manufacturing networks describe a production chain as a marketplace that delivers products on demand. In this chain, partners collaborate in product work routings that connect dispersed service-enabled systems with resources, materials, human expertise, and operation-equipment combinations. Researchers have developed a reference architecture for developing a highly connected, knowledge-enabled manufacturing network that decentralizes production control. This network will enable collaborative manufacturing of new products and response to product demand, allowing for greater production flexibility and product variability.