Evaluation of the technological effects of application of the FMS elements

Abstract

Flexible manufacturing systems (FMS) represent complex systems with great technological capabilities that are able to simultaneously achieve high level of flexibility, cost effectiveness and productivity. However, due to high investment cost and cost of exploitation of the FMS elements, the conditions for their rational use are required. Taking into account the increasingly complex conditions of production and launch of products, a systematic approach in the planning and implementation of FMSs is needed, thereby including the most significant technological and economical characteristics. This paper introduces two methodologies for evaluating the technological effects of application of the FMS elements at the conceptual level along with their verification for a single family of rotational parts.

Product configuration system development for CAD/CAM software

“…For example, in a six-piece series, the preparing process starting from the receipt of technical drawing to the beginning of the cutting process consumes much time compared to the machining time [4]. Following the trends of production, a group technology-based manufacturing concept to start to spread over the past few years [5]. The group technology has a great past and it constantly develops [2,6].…”