Interface Requirements and Planning Framework for the Integration of Non-conventional Processes in Production Lines

In manufacturing a constant striving for maximization of adding value is necessary while simultaneously reducing the resource input. The integration of processes is one possible approach to reach this goal. Usually two or more processes are combined in one machine. The integration of non-conventional processes (e.g. heat treating, coating) which are traditionally spatially and organizationally separated in production lines is an alternative approach to increase process chain performance. This approach is not yet well established in manufacturing and limited to a few individual realizations. Among other reasons, technology and resource specific requirements lead to incompatibility.