Development and operation of a flexible manufacturing system using structured techniques

Abstract A flexible manufacturing system (FMS), is a complex association of computer-controlled equipment, automated material handling systems, computer control software, and people. The development of such an association can be elaborate, requiring experts from a number of functional disciplines which, when brought together, must operate as a fully integrated, design group. This group, if it is to cope with the many operational as well as organizational difficulties that arise, must be supported by tools and methodologies that can reduce the effects of these difficulties and make the whole design process more effective. This paper deals with the development and operation of FMS from the perspective of an FMS user who is involved in designing and implementing such a complex system. The paper looks first at development issues around the implementation of complex projects such as an FMS. It examines the structure of the project team, tools to be used in preparing specifications, and finally the stages for p...