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The COMponent Based Paradigm for AGile Automation (COMPAG) provides a component-based solution to engine production-line machine control systems. The traditional PLC system is replaced with a distributed control network containing intelligent nodes comprising locally controlled actuators and sensors. The Process Definition Environment provides support for the specification, configuration, and maintenance of the machine control application and facilitates both the initial design and maintenance stages of the lifecycle by describing the control logic as a set of consistent timing and state transition diagrams commonly used in the initial design stages.

A method to enable the impact of a novel component based approach to the implementation of production machinery design and build processes from the perspectives of the manufacturing engineering partners within the automotive industry is reported in this paper. The assessment method is based upon the representation (using CIMOSA based constructs) and simulation (using the ithinktm software package) of the activity, actor and event relationships between distributed partners when involved in a global engine manufacture programme. Assessment is vital to ensure that the impact of any novel approach is appreciated in terms and metrics that are consistent with the current operational and interaction paradigms. Without this information is it extremely difficult for the engineering partners to appreciate the impact of changes on their roles, responsibilities and profits and hence determine a roadmap and timescale for the adoption of the changes associated with the novel technology.