TestLAN approach and protocols for the integration of distributed assembly and test networks

In increasing distributed production facilities there is a greater need to coordinate and integrate activities to achieve cost-effective, collaborative performance. As a step in this direction, this research introduces the design approach of TestLAN, a computer-integrated method of testing giving increased throughput and reducing the time spent in the testing phase of assembly via a client/server production configuration. Three types of task protocols--priority assignment protocol, time-out protocol and resource allocation protocol--are discussed, whose purpose is to improve the performance of TestLAN. The advantages of the TestLAN approach and its protocols are quantified and demonstrated through analysis of a wire harness assembly case.