Discrete-event dynamic systems (DEDs) permeate our world, being of great importance in modern manufacturing processes, transportation and various forms of computer and communications networking.

“Modeling and Control of Discrete-event Dynamic Systems” begins with the mathematical basics required for the study of DEDs and moves on to present various tools used in their modeling and control. Among the instruments explained are many forms of Petri net, the sequential function chart, state charts, formal languages and max-plus algebra.

Industrial examples illustrate the concepts and methods discussed. Using them, readers will be able to understand DEDs quickly and to master the control methods to analyze and improve the performance of their systems.

Final-year undergraduates and graduates embarking on further courses in control, manufacturing and process engineering, computer studies or operations research will find this text an invaluable aid in learning about the control of this important class of systems.