Self-organization: a new approach to improve the reactivity of the production systems

Self-organization has been introduced in smart production systems (intelligent manufacturing systems). In this paper, we analyze self-organization concepts and its applicability in future production systems for more flexibility and reactivity. This concept is strongly linked with autonomy, self-organized networks and cellular automata. It is developed in order to highlight its characteristics and operating modes. We also describe the studies we have conducted in flexible shops, and the results obtained on complex assemblies and production systems. Finally, recommendations directly related to this subject are given