Design and performance analysis models of computer networks in CIM systems

Abstract Computers and communication networks are key components of a flexible manufacturing system. In this paper analytical models based on integer programming methods have been developed for optimally allocating communication and control resources in a manufacturing shop. Subsequently, a procedure to measure the performance of such an optimal set of hardware is developed. First, a deterministic procedure is used to put an upper limit on the systems performance, based on the bottleneck resource. Next, closed queueing network models are used to obtain a better estimate of performance that also accounts for the randomness in the system. Finally, simulation models are developed in order to obtain more accurate results. Average production rates and average time in the system are used as performance measures to check for the acceptability of the system design.