This proceeding volume contains selected papers from the 4th International CIRP-sponsored Conference on Digital Enterprise Technology (DET2007), which was held at the University of Bath, UK from 19–21 September 2007. Most of the conference papers were of high quality, in particular the enhanced versions of the selected papers presented in this issue. The selected papers focus on aspects of digital manufacturing related to design requirements, product data and simulation for increased flexibility to deal with the variability of products.
Matthews et al. have presented an approach in constraint-based modelling simulation in order to find out the effect of design variation on the performance. In this process the new variant of designs based on feasibility, constraints and limitations of an existing system is modified iteratively until a successful solution is found. This particularly supports mass customisation, which is an ongoing trend in the manufacturing industry for companies that are seeking new markets. Based on Analytical Target Cascading, Qua et al. developed a method for dealing with decision variables involved in a supply chain. These variables are related to the interaction between a shared lower-level element and its different parental elements in a supply chain network.
A methodology for product data integration is given by Zhuo et al. In their method the horizontal and vertical product data required for the design of moulded interconnected devices is collected and integrated based on STEP AP210 and the feature technology. A hierarchical collaboration between upstream design and downstream simulation and manufacturing is also supported in their method. On the other hand, Ding et al. have developed a framework for overcoming some of the limitations of Product Lifecycle Management systems by using lightweight representations, the annotation of CAD models, and the representation information. In their framework the possibility of independent circulation of annotation, without the actual geometry, facilitates more flexible information flow across the whole product lifecycle.
With focus on small batch manufacturing environments, Wosnik et al. reviewed the available methods related to structured feedback of process data, then presented a uniform approach to extend the process chain for CNC manufacturing. Their approach aims to acquire process data in CNCs and simulation environments in order to increase data availability, identify systematic effects and improve machine tool models. Finally, Rogstrand and Kjellberg showed that protocol AP233 of ISO10303 STEP standard can be used to model the manufacturing requirements. This modelling approach allows traceability checks for specific requirements highlighted in the model that are more relevant in a given context.
The papers published in this issue will have a considerable impact on the latest research concepts developed by the international research community. The close link and application of the existing International Standards will influence the development of new standards for the application of DET technologies.