Agent-based product life cycle data support

The paper presents a framework based on autonomous, co-operative agents for life cycle oriented data support. The framework identifies internal and external data sources for product optimisation. Depending on their types, the data are stored and permanently updated in different decentralised locations (web, company and machine). Initiated by the product manufacturer the databases will be permanently updated with changes or experiences from current operations. The data can be acquired from machine control, Auto-ID or other sources.