Cloud-based architecture of service-oriented MES for subcontracting and partnership exchanges integration: A game theory approach

Abstract

• An agile cloud-based architecture for integrating ERP, MES and SPX. • Optimal selection of main contractor and subcontractor based on game theory. • Providing distributed production inside distributed enterprises. • Distribution of required services in an intelligent mode. Subcontracting and Partnership Exchanges (SPXs) have been developed to increase networking among Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) and large enterprises. SPXs provide technical information centers, advanced mechanisms and matchmaking between main contractors, suppliers and subcontractors. In general, Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) and Manufacturing Execution System (MES) have not adequate efficiency to solve the required enterprise's goals. Thus, this study proposed an agile cloud-based architecture of ERP, MES and SPX integration. This architecture supports distributed enterprises. The amazing points of the mentioned architecture abilities are the optimal selection of main contractors and subcontractors based on game theory approach. The main contractor and subcontractor selection decision in SPX center are modeled using the dynamic, sequential and noncooperative game model. The Nash equilibrium of the proposed game provides an optimized payoff function for different players against the combination of their strategies. The results show the architecture can present the distribution of required services in an intelligent mode. Also, the enabler factors such as cost, rapid elasticity, quality, response and so on have been considered to agility validation of this new architecture.