Diffusion mechanism simulation of cloud manufacturing complex network based on cooperative game theory

Cloud manufacturing is a specific implementation form of the “Internet + manufacturing” strategy. Why and how to develop cloud manufacturing platform (CMP), however, remains the key concern of both platform operators and users. A microscopic model is proposed to investigate advantages and diffusion forces of CMP through exploration of its diffusion process and mechanism. Specifically, a three-stage basic evolution process of CMP is innovatively proposed. Then, based on this basic process, a more complex CMP evolution model has been established in virtue of complex network theory, with five diffusion forces identified. Thereafter, simulations on CMP diffusion have been conducted. The results indicate that, CMP possesses better resource utilization, user satisfaction, and enterprise utility. Results of simulation on impacts of different diffusion forces show that both the time required for CMP to reach an equilibrium state and the final network size are affected simultaneously by the five diffusion forces. All these analyses indicate that CMP could create an open online cooperation environment and turns out to be an effective implementation of the “Internet + manufacturing” strategy.