Virtual distributed control systems: a components-based design method for mechatronic systems

摘要

Purpose - This paper presents work on design and development of a software platform in terms of virtual distributed control system (DCS) for the design of machine control systems. A component-based framework has been adopted within the design avenue, due to the fact that machines or mechatronic systems are built from components: objects as in software engineering. Since machine control systems are distributed conformant, the main focus is given on DCS-based approach. DCS inherits local intelligence to be incorporated at the field level (sensor and actuator level), unlike its centralised counterpart. The developed platform has been validated through a case study. The virtual platform can be useful for many kinds of event driven target platforms such as assembly lines, conveyor-based material handling systems, production cells, and so on. Design/methodology/approach - Components-based approach virtual design and validation method computer assisted design. Findings - Specification requirements for virtual design of mechatronic systems. Originality/value - Prototype tool/approach with a case study example.