FMS--FLEXIBLE MACHINING SYSTEMS

The benefits of flexible automation may be summarized as follows: reduced floor space; reduced in process inventory; the production of family of parts; increased machine utilisation; reduced direct and indirect and indirect labour; and reduced lead times. The initial capital cost of systems of this type is rather high, however these facilities will provide longer service because they can adapt to design changes and provide production rates between hard automation and very small volume production. Provisions for future demands are difficult to substantiate financially. Controllers have to be convinced that the long term benefits justify the expenditure. At present there are seven flexible production lines around the various European Ford transmission and chassis plants. This figure will certainly increase as we are now planning to extend our flexible production lines to other processes such as grinding and gear cutting. In addition we will adapt the flexible production line principle to prismatic (non-rotational) parts as well. Companywide networks of computers assist in reducing lead time of new models or components. Computer aided design (CAD) Supplies already geometric data for NC programmes and rough part drawings. Concerted effort of material procurement and material handling, product development, production and marketing via computer links strengthens logistics so the time lapse between receipt of an order and its payment shortens. Flexible machining systems are the major instruments production provides for that common goal.

• Supplemental Notes:
  • ISATA 84, "In Pursuit of Technical Excellence". Proceedings Volume 2. International Symposium on Automotive Technology and Automation with particular reference to Vehicle Management Systems and Flexible Manufacturing Systems, Milan, Italy 24-28 September 1984.
• Corporate Authors:

  Automotive Automotion Limited

  42 Lloyd Park Avenue
  Croydon CRO 5SB, Surrey,   England 

  Alfa Romeo Auto SpA

  Milan,   Italy 
• Authors:
  • Inden, W
• Publication Date: 1984

Media Info

• Features: Figures;
• Pagination: 17 p.

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Automation; Automobile industry; Benefits; Computer aided design; Flexibility; Lead time; Machining; Marketing; Production
• Subject Areas: Safety and Human Factors; Vehicles and Equipment;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 00399951
• Record Type: Publication
• Source Agency: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
• Report/Paper Numbers: ISATA 84073, HS-038 491
• Files: HSL, USDOT
• Created Date: Nov 30 1985 12:00AM