Flexible Manufacturing Cells and Systems

This introductory survey of FMS aims provides the reader with a comprehensive description of automated cells and systems. Designed as a applications-oriented text, it offers coverage of hardware, software, support, service, planning, installation and implementation issues. Establishing a fundamental understanding of cells and systems, it discusses the importance of the various stages of planning and explores the importance of quality, just-in-time manufacturing, human resources and group technology. Coverage of processing equipment is also included, explaining what they are, what they do and their importance, value and relationship to cell/system success. Computer hardware and software issues are examined with discussions of tool management, fixturing and automated material movement and storage.