Collaborative automation from rigid coupling towards dynamic reconfigurable production systems

Abstract This paper makes a case for the widespread adoption of a “collaborative automation” paradigm, which promises to provide more flexible and reconfigurable production systems overcoming many of the inherent limitations in traditional, rigid approaches to production automation. The collaborative automation approach implements production automation systems as a conglomerate of distributed, autonomous, and reusable units, which operate as a set of cooperating entities. A brief overview of existing developments and implementations of collaborative automation systems is presented together with discussion of some of the critical issues related to the realisation and industrial adoption of the approach. The current state of relevant research is briefly assessed, gaps in knowledge identified and areas for future research suggested.