KIT BASED TOOL SELECTION FOR FLEXIBLE BATCH MANUFACTURE

Abstract

Today, the need for accurate and timely information in the design and manufacture of components is compounded by the growing diversity and complexity of parts with shorter product lead times and delivery times. This becomes even more apparent in flexible manufacturing systems (FMS) which produce a medium to large variety of parts in small batches. If such systems are to be successful, an overall information support structure consisting of different databases and the appropriate linkages needs to be implemented to aid in the planning and scheduling of such facilities. Central to this theme of information support structure is tool management. This paper reports research to identify a means of providing an effective and generic solution for small and medium manufacturing enterprises by the selective application of tool management strategies used in FMS. The authors have designed and implemented a prototype kit based tool selection (KBTS) facility for the integration of an NC Computer-Aided Part programming (NCPP) facility with a tool management control system which provides significant advantages in the selection of cutting tools, their rationalisation administration and distribution/issue to the shopfloor.