From Smart Machines to Smart Supply Chains: Some Missing Pieces

Abstract

Modern warehouses, factories and supply chains are becoming enormously complex systems. Historically, the design and control of these systems has depended upon evolution and refinement over time to achieve high levels of performance. As a consequence, we do not have the legacy of engineering design that is found in digital circuits, automobiles or airplanes. But that situation is changing, albeit slowly. This talk will describe the changes that are taking place, and what they mean for our research and teaching missions.