With the approach of the 21st Century and the current trends in manufacturing, the role of computer-controlled flexible manufacturing will increasingly be instrumental in the success of manufacturing enterprises. Manufacturing environments are changing to small batch, larger product variety, with the ability to be "agile". This is in stark contrast to conventional manufacturing which has relied on economy of scale, and where change is viewed as disruptive and detrimental to production. Computer integrated manufacturing and flexible manufacturing practices are a key component in the transition from conventional manufacturing to the "new" manufacturing environment. Unless significant improvements are made in the control and operation of computerized flexible manufacturing systems (FMSs), these manufacturing systems will prove to be the "achilles heel" for future manufacturing. With this view in mind, this edited work provides an overview of the current trends and developments in control of FMS. "Computer Control of Flexible Manufacturing Systems" is intended for lecturers and researchers in manufacturing and industrial engineering as well as graduate students.
Research and development engineers in industry and consultants working in manufacturing should also find this book invaluable.