A simulation study of Industry 4.0 factories based on the ontology on flexibility with using FlexSim® software

The main aim of the article is to develop a simulation model of flexible manufacturing system with applying the ontology on flexibility. Designing manufacturing systems matching both production and market requirements becomes more and more challenging due to the variability of demand for a large number of products made in many variants and short lead times. Manufacturing flexibility is widely recognised as a proven solution to achieve and maintain both the strategical and operational goals of the companies exposed to global competition. Generic simulation model of flexible manufacturing system was developed using FlexSim® 3D software, then the example data were used to demonstrate the developed model applicability. “The Ontology on Flexibility” was applied for evaluation of achieved flexibility of manufacturing system.