Software integration in design of flexible manufacturing systems

A method for integration of classification, computer-aided design, process planning and scheduling, and control modules in the design of flexible manufacturing systems is (FMSs) presented. The requirements for cells are deduced, and an FMS integrated software is proposed with the help of a database design. A knowledge-based rough classification and coding system has been developed for coding similar parts, and an expert code convertor was developed to translate non-Opitz code into Opitz code. A product data system is designed using computer-aided programming for designing a family of similar parts. A process planning module is interfaced with CAD and other systems to generate a suitable process plan. A set of rules is suggested to determine the optimum scheduling procedure for machining operations. An FMS control algorithm using Petri net controllers is presented. Software integration of the FMS systems and factory floor practices is discussed