Published online by Cambridge University Press: 09 March 2009
Computer Integrated Manufacture (CIM) is concerned with providing computer assistance, control and high level integrated automation at all levels of the manufacturing industries, including the business data processing system, CAD, CAM and FMS, by linking islands of automation into a distributed processing system. The technology applied in CIM makes intensive use of distributed computer networks and data processing techniques, Artificial Intelligence and Database Management Systems. FMS in this aspect plays the role of a highly efficient and “ready to react to random requests” manufacturing facility (e.g. machining, test, assembly, welding, etc.) in this “total concept”. (Figure 1)