Towards Reconfigurable Digitalized and Servitized Manufacturing Systems: Conceptual Framework

Abstract

Based on an analysis of research and industrial trends, the paper introduces the basis of a conceptual research framework for an innovative methodology dedicated to design, implement and manage Reconfigurable Manufacturing Systems (RMS). The authors present key challenges extracted from the literature and key industrial needs for RMS, drawn from expert interviews via an industry study. A conceptual framework for reconfigurability management is proposed, which opens several avenues for future research.

Reconfigurable Digitalized and Servitized Production Systems: Requirements and Challenges

“…With acceptability and adopting practices being two of the main concerns for companies, it is a significant requirement for research and will necessitate to demonstrate increases in performance over the entire lifecycles through suitable indicator systems and specific demonstrators. An in-depth analysis of both the literature and the industrial interviews will be used to update the framework previously presented in [1], in particular by focusing on the requirements of decision support tools with the aim to be used as a research roadmap.…”

“…In order to better understand the industry's requirements and challenges regarding RMS, the authors conducted interviews with representatives from different industries in Germany and France. The structure of these interviews was derived from an analysis of the industrial needs and framework presented in [1]. The goal is to identify more precisely the needs of the industry for tools to help with the implementation and operation of reconfigurable systems.…”

“…Additionally, new business models and services can be applied. In [1] a framework was developed that shows the connection of digitalization, servitization and sustainability in the field of RMS. To apply the framework in the industry, it is important to understand the challenges and requirements that arise for companies when using reconfigurable, digitized, servitized and sustainable (RDSS) systems.…”

Extending Value in Legacy Production Systems: Insights from the Liquid Food Processing

“…The architectural and functional impact on the installed packaging lines, alias the legacy systems, is relevant and classified according to the framework (Section 3) in Table 2 below. The change enabler, modularity was implemented due to afforded autonomy and ability for non-hierarchical integration [28]. As commonly utilized it satisfies the needs of the change-ilities (flexibility and robustness) allowing for distinct system elements to be developed/changed and supporting the management of the increased technological complexity and interface requirements.…”