Auto-Generation of Distributed Automation Software Based on Formal Product Line Specification

In this paper we demonstrate how some features of product lines related to the product assembly plan can be modelled in a formal way using finite state machines. Then we introduce a method for automatic generation of automation software that is empowering the production systems to produce the required range of products based on availability of components. We illustrate the concept on a very simple example, where products are limited to ordered tuples of components. The products can have different complexity which is reflected in the variable number of elements in the tuples. Benefits of automatic generation include reduced implementation cycle, along with assurance in abilities of manufacturing lines to produce exactly specified product descriptions.