Abstract
With the evolution of the application of web technology, agent-based manufacturing systems can be both easily implemented and become a potential approach for modern manufacturing enterprises. In this paper, we present problems and models required for the development of web-based distributed manufacturing control systems. The specific objectives are: (1) to propose an appropriate architecture for a web-based distributed manufacturing control system, (2) to define the specification of a web-based cell controller, (3) to design the co-operative mechanisms, contract net protocol, for better system performance, (4) to upgrade the communication capability of existing CNC machines from RS232C to TCP/IP (Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol) based on Ethernet . To demonstrate the proposed development, prototype software based on ASP and VB programming was designed and implemented. As a result, not only is a great amount of time saved in the development of web-based manufacturing control software, but this development can also enhance the competitive capability of companies trying to operate on a flexible basis. © Springer-Verlag London Limited 2004.