Summary

Many companies have realized that in order to compete in today's world market, they must rely on innovative developments in manufacturing technology. To increase productivity, companies are applying computer controlled machine tools, automated materials handling and storage systems. Due to the progress made in manufacturing technology and organization, the Flexible Manufacturing concept has emerged. A typical Flexible Manufacturing System (FMS) requires high investment in manufacturing components and computer control. Modelling has become an essential part of the FMS design and management methodology. This book - the first of its kind in this important area - shows the importance of modelling of FMSs. It presents a comprehensive and systematic review of FMS planning models; discusses different modelling and design aspects of materials handling systems; covers management of new technology, production and process planning issues, and emphasises the FMS design phase. Because FMS imposes special requirements for software, the book also deals with frameworks for information systems, decision support and expert systems. Case studies and applications are also presented.