Event-based Reactive Production Order Scheduling for Manufacturing Execution Systems

Abstract

AbstractToday, first inter-organizational tracking & tracing systems facilitate timely identification and handling of disruptions along the supply chain. However, these systems typically operate at SCM and ERP level and therefore lack knowledge and control over production processes. This paper bridges the gap between logistics and production IT by proposing a novel architecture for coupling the manufacturing operations as defined in IEC 62264 with an EPCIS-compliant real-time tracking & tracing system. The system leverages logic-based complex event processing for detecting critical disruptions in the supply chain and initiates rescheduling of production. It is shown that in the presence of unexpected events the rescheduling algorithm minimizes delays and inventory costs while avoiding “nervous schedules” caused by frequent changes. As proof of concept a reference implementation of the architecture is realized within a discrete production line.