Manufacturing Systems

Abstract

This chapter presents some of the fundamental concepts and technologies in modern manufacturing systems within the mechanical industry, including discussion of state-of-the-art production equipment as well as developments in production planning and management philosophies. It devotes to Japanese production philosophy as well as to how cellular manufacturing can improve production planning and control. The chapter also illustrates how flexible manufacturing systems (FMS) can combine the strengths of product lines and job-shop manufacturing better than the cellular layout. It discusses the facilities and capabilities of modern production equipment. The chapter focuses on two areas, machine tools and industrial robots, because it is in these areas that the major developments have been made and new manufacturing opportunities are opening up for the mechanical industry. It also discusses the principles in production planning and control and how these influence the overall efficiency of production systems.