Abstract:
In the competitive field of metalworking industry, the planning
of manufacturing systems so as to maximise their performance is
crucial. The relatively new field of Flexible Manufacturing
Systems presents a new set of planning challenges to the
production engineer. This is due to the integrated nature of the
these systems and the resultant effects upon their performance.
This thesis presents a structured approach to the planning of
materials flow within these systems and develops it by the
analysis of several proposed manufacturing systems. The approach
is based upon the use of mathematical and discrete event
simulation techniques.
The thesis gives the background to the need for a structured
approach, investigates the parallel development of simulation
languages and related techniques as applied to manufacturing
facilities planning; and of the Flexible Manufacturing Systems
themselves. The approach is then detailed and some specific
types of planning tool are identified as suitable for use at
each project stage. The effects upon the system of the
integration of separate units, especially in low work in
progress environments, are discussed in some detail.
The methodology developed is then used in the context of three
projects, specifically developing the theme of automated tool
handling and the requirements that it places upon other aspects
of a manufacturing system. The projects cover the analysis of
pooling strategies, a key factor in determining tool magazine
sizes and handling capacity/frequency demands; an academic
analysis of a system with both component and tool handling
systems; and an advanced Flexible Manufacturing System, also
with both automated component and tool handling, which is
currently being installed.
Conclusions are presented at each stage, and these are drawn
together to form a foundation for the planning of materials flow
within Flexible Manufacturing Systems in general. Finally,
suggestions are made for future work to develop the analysis.
