Distributed engineering of manufacturing machines

The specification and deployment of enterprise modelling and component-base d system concepts to facilitate the distributed engineering of automotive m anufacturing machines is reported in this paper. The main areas of research reported in the article cover: (a) the design and prototype development of new forms of component-based en gine assembly and transfer machines, (b) life cycle engineering approaches that improve the change capability of component-based automotive machines and (c) the design and implementation of an engineering environment that enable s distributed engineering teams to achieve (a) and (b). The concepts, approach and environment have been developed and are being fo rmally assessed with reference to current practice within an ongoing engine ering programme. A consortium of leading automotive companies is collaborat ing on the research project with the aim of producing a new range of engine products that will be used in various makes of vehicle around the globe.