Performance of real-time distributed arrival time control in heterarchical manufacturing systems

A highly distributed feedback control algorithm for autonomous part entities in heterarchical manufacturing systems is presented in this paper. A difference equation-based model is developed to analyze the discrete time dynamics of the resulting nonlinear control system. Control parameters are found analytically that guarantee that the system is bounded under disturbances. The dynamic response to: (i) changes in due dates; and (ii) the bulk arrival of parts is presented. The ability of the system to exponentially reduce the mean and variance of due-date deviation in the single machine case makes it an attractive option for real-time control of just-in-time production.