A flexible manufacturing cell (FMC) has become of major interest recently as a new machining unit for low-volume, variety production. However, set-up operations for workpieces have not yet been automated in the usual FMC. A flexible manufacturing system (FMS) is a production method that is designed to easily adapt to changes in the type and quantity of the product being manufactured. Machines and computerized systems can be configured to manufacture a variety of parts and handle changing levels of production. A flexible manufacturing system (FMS) can improve efficiency and thus lower a company's production cost. Flexible manufacturing also can be a key component of a make-to-order strategy that allows customers to customize the products they want. In the book “Flexible Manufacturing Cells and Systems”, the design and scheduling problems for FMC with automatic set-up equipment are discussed. This book outlines the processes and applications of this field in detail. It deals with installation of FMS, role of manufacturing cell, FMS software structure, kanban systems and coordinate measuring machine. This book is a compilation of chapters that discuss the most vital concepts in this field. Different approaches, evaluations and methodologies have been included in it. This book is meant for students who are looking for an elaborate reference on flexible manufacturing.

Preface

1. Overview of FMS 

2. Introduction to Flexible Manufacturing Cell 

3. Installation of FMS 

4. FMS Implementation

5. FMS Software Structure

6. System Hardware and General Functionality

7. Role of Manufacturing Cell 

8. Just In Time Manufacturing 

9. Kanban Systems 

10. Coordinate Measuring Machine (CMM)

Index

Maryjane Camp obtained her Ph.D. in Manufacturing Engineering from Public Research University, Melbourne. She has served as a Senior Lecturer at Community College, Auckland. Her research primarily focuses on computer integrated manufacturing systems, automation, data processing and industrial engineering. She has contributed numerous articles and book chapters in the field of production management, computer integrated manufacturing and flexible manufacturing systems. Camp has presented 15 papers at international symposiums and conferences. She has also been an invited speaker at various international production management conferences.