Reconfigurability and reconfigurable manufacturing systems: state-of-the-art review

This paper presents a state-of-the-art review of reconfigurability and reconfigurable manufacturing systems. Reconfigurability is defined as the ability to repeatedly change and rearrange the components of a system in a cost-effective way. This concept is illustrated through its application in computing, automated assembly and robotics. Then, the evolution of manufacturing, from dedicated to flexible manufacturing systems, is briefly discussed and the need for reconfigurable manufacturing systems is outlined. These are further studied by analysing their key features (modularity, integrability, customisation, convertibility, and diagnosability) and challenges (product variability, responsiveness, nonobsolescence, cost-effectiveness, reliability and simplicity). It is shown that there are common research issues in reconfigurable computing, robotics and manufacturing such as system-module-component interfaces, design methodologies, modularity, tools and toolsuites development, strategic analysis and business modelling, training, and support. Finally, the research priorities of the I*PROMS Network of Excellence in the area of reconfigurable manufacturing are outlined