A semiotic framework for manufacturing systems integration –Part I: Generative integration model

This paper presents the findings of exploratory research on the potential of semiotics for manufacturing systems integration (MSI). The findings strongly suggest that semiotics might be the basis for a new paradigm for MSI. In the first part of the paper a number of needs for the new semiotic-based integration paradigm are presented. The second part of the paper introduces the basic notions of semiotics and provides a discussion on the use of semiotics in MSI. The third part presents a framework for the semiotics-based MSI, together with a model of the semiotics-based MSI, entitled ‘generative integration’ (GI). In the final part, some experimental set-ups, i.e. prototype demonstrators of the manufacturing systems, elements and systems, are presented as a platform for future research and development of the semiotics-based MSI.