Electronically networked assembly systems for global manufacturing

In industrial production engineering a radical structural change is taking place. The developments in microelectronics, the data and communication technology as well as the fast evolving markets result in changing requirements for the productivity, flexibility and availability of assembly systems. The flexibility of future assembly systems is not only a question of technology but is determined by a holistic view of the value adding chain. The application of electronics is a key factor for achieving and maintaining competitiveness in the major economic fields. The impact of electronics on different steps in the value adding chain will be discussed exemplarily in the field of electronic assembly.