This book covers all the steps from identification of operations and resources to the transformation of virtual models into real-world algorithms. The matrix-based approach presented here is a solution to the real-time application of control in discrete event systems and flexible manufacturing systems (FMS), and offers a sound practical basis for the design of controllers for manufacturing systems.

Manufacturing Systems Control Design details a matrix-based approach to the real-time application of control in discrete-event systems and flexible manufacturing systems (FMS) in particular. The "and/or" algebra in which matrix operations are carried out enables fast and efficient calculations with a minimum of computing power. In addition, the method uses standard task-sequencing and resource-requirements matrices which, if not in use already, can be easily derived with the help of this text. Matrix-based techniques are compared with Petri net and max-plus algebra ideas.

Virtual modeling of complex physical systems has brought a new perspective to the investigation of phenomena in FMS. The software discussed in this book(and downloadable from the authorsa (TM) website at http: //flrcg.rasip.fer.hr/) supplies the reader with a graphical user interface that can do many things to make the design and control of FMS easier.

The examples presented herein tackle the real-world problems faced by engineers trying to put into practice methods developed in academia, bringing together catholic experience of sensors, control systems, robotics, industrial automation, simulation, agile assembly and supply chains. Common concerns confronted include:

a [ predictability: issues of control system modeling and analysis are addressed;

a [ producibility: by looking at the design and synthesis of cellular workcells;

a [ productivity: in terms of dynamic sensing and control.

Covering all the steps from identification of operations and resources through modeling of the system and simulation of its dynamics in a virtual environment to the transformation of those models into real-worldalgorithms, this monograph is a sound practical basis for the design of controllers for manufacturing systems. It will interest both the academic and practising control or manufacturing engineer wishing to enhance the control of flexible systems and operations researchers looking at manufacturing performance. The end-of-chapter exercises provided and the easy-to-read introduction to the subject will also suit the final-year undergraduate and the beginning graduate in these disciplines.

Fuzzy control methods are critical for meeting the demands of complex nonlinear systems. They bestow robust, adaptive, and self-correcting character to complex systems that demand high stability and functionality beyond the capabilities of traditional methods. A thorough treatise on the theory of fuzzy logic control is out of place on the design bench. That is why Fuzzy Controller Design: Theory and Applications offers laboratory- and industry-tested algorithms, techniques, and formulations of real-world problems for immediate implementation. With surgical precision, the authors carefully select the fundamental elements of fuzzy logic control theory necessary to formulate effective and efficient designs. The book supplies a springboard of knowledge, punctuated with examples worked out in MATLAB(R)/SIMULINK(R), from which newcomers to the field can dive directly into applications. It systematically covers the design of hybrid, adaptive, and self-learning fuzzy control structures along with strategies for fuzzy controller design suitable for on-line and off-line operation. Examples occupy an entire chapter, with a section devoted to the simulation of an electro-hydraulic servo system. The final chapter explores industrial applications with emphasis on techniques for fuzzy controller implementation and different implementation platforms for various applications. With proven methods based on more than a decade of experience, Fuzzy Controller Design: Theory and Applications is a concise guide to the methodology, design steps, and formulations for effective control solutions.