Flexible Manufacturing Systems (FMS)

Flexible Manufacturing Systems (FMS)

FMS Setup:

Flexible Manufacturing Systems are an evolutionary process from numerical control (NC), then computer numerical control (CNC), to manufacturing systems. Numerical control provides the ability for a machine to use a program to process a part. Computer numerical control provides the ability to store multiple programs and interchange these programs for a machine. CNC controlled machines combined with a pallet changing device provides the ability to process a mixture of parts without setup. FMS combine multiple CNC controlled machines with pallet handling systems, pallet load/unload stations and a supervisory computer control.

FMS Setup Advantages:

• To reduce set up and queue times
• Improve efficiency
• Reduce time for product completion
• Utilize human workers better
• Improve product routing
• Produce a variety of Items under one setup

FMS Setup Comprises of:

• CNC Lathe Trainer with Loading Arm
• CNC Mill Trainer with Loading Arm
• ASRS
• Pallet Conveyors
• Linear Shuttle Conveyors

Storage Station:

The ASRS storage is a floor-mounted or a table top automated storage and retrieval (ASRS) system desgined for educational use. The systems dedicated cartesian robot transfers parts between storage cells and conveyor pallets stopped at the ASRS station

Conveyors:

The Conveyor frame is constructed of extruded, back anodized. A double flexible chain moves in the inner and outer rails and moves the load (Pallets) by friction