Robotics 4.0: Performance improvement made easy

The present paper proposes a conceptual framework along with a practical solution for the problem of integrating the performance indicators of production processes with the capabilities of robotic systems and machinery. This will enable technology transfer and development of automated production processes within the new vision of industry 4.0. The proposed methodology is a solution for improving the performance of a manufacturing system that integrates robotics, mechatronics and automation systems at different levels. Performance measurements and bottlenecks detection on critical production paths are performed in order to achieve a dynamic and on-line system improvement. This consists of a pervasive control of the effectiveness of the system-of-systems, by means of a well-defined sequence of specific and minimal corrective actions. The proposed technique is advisable in the complex scenario of decentralized manufacturing. The nature of the solution is context-dependent and scalable.