CIM, FMS and robots

There are two production strategies: to become leader in product technology or leader in production technology. The factory of the future is a service company. Information is a new production factor. CIM is a strategic objective. Prerequisite for CIM is the horizontal integration of production processes and vertical integration of administrative, dispositive and operative levels. Obstacles are of human, organisational and technical nature. There are overlapping borders between FMSs, FMCs and FTLs (Flexible Transfer Lines). FMS planning starts with the choice of the part spectrum. Short- and long-time flexibility is the key to success. Cooperation between user and supplier is essential. Software for FMS is of increasing importance. Robots have become part of the state of the art. Main application is welding. Future development will focus on sensor technique, special-task robots, low-cost robots, mobile robots and new programming techniques.