Coordinating order processing in decentralized production units using hierarchical simulation models and Web-technologies

Increased dynamics and flexibility of order processing are considered the potentials of decentralized production systems. To feed these potentials a certain degree of partial autonomy is admitted. Nevertheless this given partial autonomy must be aligned to global company-wide objectives. One approach is supporting and co-ordinating decision-making by using a simulation-based assistance system. Hierarchical modeling facilitates the suitable configuration of the simulation models and allows faster examination of larger production areas. Web-technologies, such as easy-to-use Web-clients together with capable simulation-servers, make it possible for simulation-laymen to be supported in decision-making by the assistance system