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This paper describes a component based approach to the design, modelling and implementation of electronics manufacturing machines and their associated control systems that offers significant advantages over traditional methods. The new approach, which supports the implementation of machines utilising sequence and interlock based control is suitable for discrete parts handling and assembly applications. The external drivers of change effecting the electronic manufacturing sector are reviewed and the need for a better approach to the design and implementation of machines is explained within this context. Existing best practise for the implementation of electronics manufacturing machinery is described together with the role of current industry standards. A component based approach to control system design and implementation is described which is better aligned to today's business needs. This approach makes it possible for an accurate visualisation of machine behaviour to be made available to all interested parties throughout the machine lifecycle in a form that process engineers and users can easily relate to.
Harrison et al. (Wed,) studied this question.