Integration of manufacturing information using open hypermedia

This paper discusses some of the benefits from using an open hypermedia sys tem to deliver the diverse range of information found within the manufactur ing environment. The open hypermedia approach to information management and delivery allows a single multimedia resource base to be used for a range o f applications, and permits a user to have controlled access to the require d information, in an easily accessible and structured manner. Our approach is illustrated by the presentation of a case study of a system delivering m aintenance and process information on the factory floor, within a fully aut omated manufacturing plant. The development of the application is discussed , together with guide lines for the authoring and delivery of information. It is our contention that with the integration of open hypermedia, and know ledge based systems together with network technology giving access to exter nal databases, the concept of industrial strength hypermedia can be realise d. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.