Integrating static and dynamic analysis in studying capacity scalability in RMS

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to provide a deeper understanding about the relation between management level and operational level in capacity scalability problem in Reconfigurable Manufacturing Systems (RMS). The approach presented in this paper integrates both static and dynamic analyses. A dynamic model for capacity scalability in RMS is developed and then a study of optimal capacity scalability by means of multi-objective optimisation is discussed. The dynamic model is based on control theory where the capacity scalability system is modelled using block diagram and a transfer function is derived. The capacity scalability controller's gain is determined using multi-objective optimisation. Simulation study of an industrial case for a scenario of exogenous disturbance to RMS is conducted. Results showed the impact of management strategies on the performance of capacity scalability systems in RMS and also the importance of dynamic control for capacity scalability management in modern system like RMS.