• A flexible manufacturing system (FMS) is a highly automated group technology machine cell, consisting of a group of processing workstations that are interconnected by an automated material handling and storage system, and controlled by a distributed computer system
• Flexible manufacturing systems (FMSs) are the most automated and technologically sophisticated of the machine cell types used to implement cellular manufacturing.
• An FMS usually has multiple automated stations and is capable of variable routings among stations, while its flexibility allows it to operate as a mixed model system.
• The FMS concept integrates many of the advanced technologies that we met in previous units, including flexible automation, CNC machines, distributed computer control, and automated material handling and storage.
• FMS? “ an automated, mid-volume, mid-variety, central computer controlled manufacturing system”
• Activities covered: machining, sheet metal working, welding, fabricating, assembly
• Physical components: – Potentially independent NC machine tools capable of performing multiple functions and having automated tool interchange capabilities
• Automated material handling system to move parts between machine tools and fixturing stations
• All the components are hierarchically computer controlled – Equipment such as coordinate measuring machines and part-washing devices

Why do we need flexibility in manufacturing systems?

• Variety in products thus options for the consumers
• Optimizing the manufacturing cycle time Reduced production costs
• Overcoming internal changes like failure, breakdowns, limited sources, etc.
• External changes such as change in product design and production system.

Various types of flexibility

Machine flexibility

Capability of a machine to perform a variety of operations on a variety of part types and sizes

Routing flexibility

Alternative machines, sequences or resources can be used for manufacturing a part for changes resulting from equipment breakdowns, tool breakages, controller failures, etc.

Process flexibility

Ability to absorb changes in the product mix by performing similar operations producing similar products or parts.

Product flexibility

Ability to change over to a new set of products economically and quickly in response to markets.

Production flexibility

Ability to produce a range of products without adding capital equipment

Expansion flexibility

Ability to change a manufacturing system with a view to accommodating a changed product envelope