Description:
A new approach to the design and implementation of virtual prototyping environments (VPEs), aimed at providing support for the engineering of flexible machine technologies (referred to as reconfigurable manufacturing systems (RMSs)) is presented. The research is focused on two aspects of VPE tool development, namely on ensuring the consistency between real- and virtual-system architectures, design tools, and design processes and on maximizing the potential of three-dimensional computer-based virtual models as a basis for distributed engineering collaboration. A component-based (CB) approach to VPE tool design and implementation is proposed, which radically contrasts with approaches commonly adopted by both the commercial and academic VPE developers. The VPE developed in the context of this research should ultimately enable more effective management of RMS complex engineering life cycles by engineering partners who are globally distributed.