Modelling Basic Discrete Event Systems - A Key Factor in Supporting the Representation and Analysis of Complex Production Systems

Abstract

Abstract This paper proposes an algebraic approach to modelling of discrete event systems at the structure level of system specification using Petri nets, as a systematic method supporting the development of Petri nets-based models. It could be viewed as an alternative method to the graphical constructions enabled by the Petri net formalism, which will allow a concise representation of large complex systems. The paper emphasizes on the limited number of components of the first layer of the model base, which are generally enough in a wide range of discrete production systems, the step-by-step synthesis procedure of a new model as a result of using the two available composition rules and the enhanced ability to master various way of managing resources: scheduling, routing, etc. An example is provided to show how this formal approach does apply.