Computer Integrated Manufacturing (CIM)

Computer Integrated Manufacturing (CIM) is the next step in the technological progression of an organization. The system incorporates all the engineering functions of CAD/CAM and the business functions of the firm. These business functions include order entry, cost accounting, maintenance of employee time records and payroll, and customer billing. In an ideal CIM system, computer technology is applied to all the operational and information-processing functions of the company from customer orders through design and production (CAD/CAM) to product shipment and customer service. In many ways, CIM represents the highest level of integration in manufacturing. Figure illustrates the components of CIM.              

Figure: Components of CIM

CIM refer to a computer application that connects various computerized systems into a single multi-functional system. For instance, budgeting, CAD/CAM, process controls, group technology systems, MRP II, financial reporting systems, etc. are linked together. A CIM is capable of controlling and coordinating every phase of production, from initial order receipt to dispatch and billing. The CIM process does not have a fixed process structure. It varies from organization to organization depending on the functional requirements. The system combines database systems, manufacturing equipment and sub-systems together into a single integrated system in order to enable the organization to transform product ideas into high-quality products in minimum time and at minimum cost. For example, the design engineer's workstation (CAD system) is linked to the overall system so that design specifications and manufacturing instructions are automatically sent to the shop floor. The inventory databases are also linked, so that they can be updated on a continuous basis. An automated inspection system (or a manual inspection station supplied with online terminal entry) is linked to a quality control system that maintains a database of quality information and alerts the manager if there is deterioration in quality, and at times even identifies a problem. Automatic tracking of the products flow from one station to another on the factory floor allows tracking program to identify bottlenecks and recommend replacement of faulty equipment. The main objective of CIM is to reduce costs both direct (labor, material) and indirect costs (materials handling, inspection).

A typical CIM system takes product design details from a CAD system and other customer order information systems, and uses this information to create purchase orders (for producing necessary materials), work instructions, tooling requirements and so on.  The system then develops schedules for production equipment and coordinates the activities and flow of materials throughout the manufacturing unit. It also tracks the movement of the product in production units, monitors product quality and tool wear, and simultaneously stores the data for future analysis.  The system keeps track of all inventory items - raw materials, spares and components, semi-finished goods and final products - and automatically releases purchase orders when necessary. 

The expansion of CIM has slowed down because of the high costs of implementation, lack of standardized interfaces between the various CIM components and the slow acceptance of standardized communication protocols to support integration. However, proper application of CIM by an organization would result in reduced operating costs, improved quality and reliable delivery performance. Many organizations like Motorola, Sony and Toshiba have integrated their design, sales, scheduling, manufacturing, purchasing and accounting systems by using CIM.               

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