A framework of virtual manufacturing in the days of electronic business

Virtual manufacturing (VM) is an integrated system to enhance the decisions and controls ability in manufacturing enterprises. It develops with the current electronic business. To study the impacts on VM by electronic business, this paper summarizes the typical changes of manufacturing. Based on the changes and functions of VM, a new application framework of virtual manufacturing is proposed. The framework is composed with design, production and control models in which some online communication units like online co-design with customers, collaborative production with partners and co-work with suppliers etc. are included. The design of the new VM framework is better suitable for electronic business environment and might promote the progress of modern manufacturing. For the implementation aspect, the key technologies are finally explained.