Software Control System Requirements for Ultra-Flexible Learning Factories

Ultra-flexible production systems require modular, selectable, economical and realistic learning environments. Therefore, current learning factory concepts must be developed to reach new adaptability goals. These concepts require specific characteristics for information and software models, and also a new range of learning content based on the required skills for configuring and controlling ultra-flexible production systems. This paper analyzes and proposes software requirements and new learning opportunities related to the control systems in an ultra-flexible learning factory. Additionally, a comparison between software models of the traditional learning factory, of an ultra-flexible learning factory, and of real production is presented.