Flexibility can be described in two aspects. The first aspect is the system's ability to adapt to changes in the external environment, which can be measured by the degree to which the system meets the requirements of new products. The second aspect is the system's ability to adapt to internal changes, which can be measured under conditions of disruption (such as machine failure). The ratio of the system's productivity in this case to the expected productivity under conditions of no disruption can be used to measure flexibility.
Classification of Flexible Manufacturing Technologies
1. Machine flexibility: When a series of different types of products are required to be produced, the degree of difficulty the machine can process different parts as the products change.
2. Process flexibility: First, the ability to adapt to changes in products or raw materials when the process flow remains unchanged; second, the ease or difficulty of changing the corresponding processes within the manufacturing system to adapt to changes in products or raw materials.
3. Product flexibility: First, the system's ability to produce new products very economically and quickly after product updates or complete shifts; second, the ability to inherit and maintain the useful characteristics of old products after product updates.
4. Maintenance flexibility: The ability to query and handle faults using multiple methods to ensure normal production.
5. Production capacity flexibility: The ability of the system to operate economically even when production volume changes. This is especially important for manufacturing systems that organize production based on orders.
6. Scalability: The system structure can be easily expanded and modules added to form a larger system when production needs to be met.
7. Operational flexibility: The ability to produce a range of products using different machines, materials, and processes, and the ability to process the same product using different procedures.
Flexible manufacturing system
A flexible manufacturing system is an automated manufacturing system managed and controlled by a computer for the efficient production of small-batch, high-variety parts. It features:
1. Multiple standard manufacturing units with CNC machine tools featuring automatic loading and unloading functions;
2. A material storage and transportation system that can transport workpieces and cutting tools between machine tool clamping stations; FMS is a programmable manufacturing system containing automated material handling equipment, capable of information and logistics integration with computer support, and it features:
3. It can simultaneously process multiple parts with similar shape features and processing techniques;
4. It can automatically change cutting tools and workpieces;
5. It allows for convenient internet access and easy integration with other systems;
6. It can perform dynamic scheduling, and can dynamically reorganize logistics routes in the event of a local failure.
As FMS (Flexible Manufacturing Systems) become smaller and lower in cost, they evolve into Flexible Manufacturing Cells (FMCs), which may consist of only one machining center but possess independent automated processing capabilities. Some FMCs have automated transfer and monitoring management functions, while others can operate unattended 24 hours a day. FMS used for equipment are called Flexible Equipment Systems (FAS).
