Automated tool management in flexible manufacturing

Abstract The need for automated tooling in flexible machining, assembly, and sheet fabrication systems is reviewed. The various methods of implementing these systems, their benefits and drawbacks are discussed. The basic modules of automated tool transfer, storage, loading/unloading, and management are described together with the appropriate level of automation for each module. The advantages and prerequisites for unmanned machining systems, the current sensing methods and the tool replacement strategies are also reviewed. The importance of a tool database, its uses and structure are highlighted. Finally, the design and evaluation of automated tooling systems and operating strategies, with the aid of discrete events computer simulation are discussed. An existing computer package which is capable of simulating automated tooling systems for flexible manufacturing systems is presented.