Formal Resource and Capability Models supporting Re-use of Manufacturing Resources

In the field of manufacturing the responsiveness has become a new strategic goal for the enterprises alongside with quality and costs. Efficient responsiveness requires production reconfiguration ranging from layout to equipment. The production system capabilities originate from the tool and equipment level. While a resource is being used, its condition and capability may change. It is crucial to consider the resources' individual lifecycle, their actual capabilities and condition during the system design and reconfiguration. Thus, the lifecycle perspective in the capability management is of utmost importance. This paper presents the development of the Manufacturing Resource Capability Ontology (MaRCO), focusing on describing the functional capabilities of manufacturing resources. Special emphasis is placed on the lifecycle management aspect of the resource descriptions.