Wireless Network Control For Internet Manufacturing Johan Potgieter, Glen Bright, W.L.Xu, Olaf Diegel, Sylvester Tlale Mechatronics and Robotics Research Group Institute of technology and Engineering, Massey University, Auckland j.potgieter@massey.ac.nz , mechatronics.massey.ac.nz Abstract The control of a manufacturing process can be carried out in a wireless networked environment. This allows for realistic real time control and simulation. This can be achieved through the declarative definition of Computer Integrated Manufacturing (CIM) components, the standardisation of CIM interfaces and the object- orientated approach to model development and data management. Control for Internet manufacturing can produce an efficient and effective solution for CIM processes. This approach allows a remote user to monitor and control CIM processes in real time over the Internet. A mechatronic design approach has been applied to the development of a CIM Internet control system, to optimise the overall function of a CIM system. The research described in this paper addresses the topics of advanced manufacturing technologies, specifically Computer Integrated Manufacturing and Modular Mechatronics. The primary concern is the development of an Internet controlled manufacturing environment, which utilises wireless network technology. 1 Introduction Multimedia works well in the computerised manufacturing environment, because it is cost-effective, convenient and the results can be measured [Rahman et.al.]. There is a need for enterprise integration, because modern manufacturing operations are more decentralised in nature. This may be achieved using multimedia capable computer wireless networks, especially in the process of integrating various functional areas such as marketing, design and planning, production and distribution within the enterprise [Potgieter et.al.]. To succeed, the Internet- based multimedia products have to be based on standard products. These include transceivers, network interface cards, gateways, small servers, sensors and controllers, and a widely accepted operating system. Some functional areas of manufacturing have been considered for Internet uses. These include Computer Integrated Manufacturing (CIM), Flexible Manufacturing Systems (FMS), Computer Aided Design (CAD), Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems (AS/RS), and Robot control and scheduling. The modular design approach simplifies the manufacturing, control and implementation of an Internet-based manufacturing process. The traditionally separate functions of research and development, design, production, assembly, inspection, and quality control are linked in Computer Integrated Manufacturing processes. Integration requires that quantitative relationships among product designs, materials, manufacturing processes and equipment capabilities, and related activities be well understood [Kalpakjian et.al.]. The effectiveness of a CIM system depends on the presence of some large-scale, integrated communications system involving computers, machines, and their controls. Each component of the CIM system, when broken down into its most simplistic components, must be seen as an actuator. A microprocessor-controlled actuator within a CIM cell consists of sensors, motors and linear/rotary actuators capable of position feedback and speed control. All these CIM cell components are connected to a PC-based controller that connects via a wireless communication system to a host controller as in Figure 1. HOST CONTROLLER AGV ASRS CMM ROBOT CONVEYOR CNC Ethernet WWW Ethernet Wireless LAN CONTOLLER PC Wireless Figure 1: CIM Architecture [Potgieter] On a primary level, these CIM components are controlled using modular mechatronic principles [Potgieter et.al]. Mechatronics encapsulate the integration of electronics, control engineering and mechanical engineering, where there is a trend towards the development of modular actuating systems. The approach of the modular design technique is to start the design process at the software and electronic control stage with initial disregard for the actuating system. This design approach allows for the development of standardised control systems for the entire CIM system. Proc. 2002 Australasian Conference on Robotics and Automation Auckland, 27-29 November 2002 Copyright © ARAA 2002 202