Computational methods for planning and developing flexible manufacturing systems

• Published in: Engineering computations Vol. 22; no. 8; pp. 958 - 971
• Main Authors: Callahan, Richard N., Hubbard, Kevin M., Strong, Shawn D.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Bradford Emerald Group Publishing Limited 01.12.2005; Emerald
• Subjects: Applied sciences; Communication; Computational techniques; Computer engineering; Control applications; Controllers; Cost control; Decision making; Distributed control systems; Exact sciences and technology; Flexible manufacturing systems; Inventory control; Linear programming; Logic programming; Materials handling; Mathematical methods in physics; Mechanical engineering. Machine design; Methods; Operations research; Physics; Robotics; Software; Students; Studies; Value analysis; Decision making; Flexible manufacturing systems; Value analysis; Control applications; Engineering design; Decision support system; Flexible manufacturing system; Planning; Weight
• ISSN: 0264-4401; 1758-7077
• DOI: 10.1108/02644400510626505

Purpose - To develop a decision framework for the planning and development of a flexible manufacturing system (FMS).Design methodology approach - A systematic weighted property index approach for FMS development decisions is developed to evaluate various design options. This methodology converts design property values of differing orders of magnitude into a unitless system where an overall evaluation of the options can be made.Findings - Major design choices related to the implementation of an educational FMS are identified, and considerations affecting each choice are discussed. A methodology for the selection of the appropriate FMS is then developed and demonstrated.Practical implications - Provides a useful framework for evaluating various options in FMS development and selecting an appropriate system for a given environment and situation.Originality value - Identifies the major design choices related to the implementation of an educational FMS, provides practical examples taken from the development of FMSs at Southwest Missouri State University and the University of Missouri-Rolla, and presents a systematic methodology for FMS design decision making.