Factory of the Future
Computer integrated manufacturing (CIM), automated material handling, automated inspection systems, CNC machines & tool handling systems, automated storage & retrieval systems, cellular manufacturing system, flexible manufacturing systems, computer aided process planning, Operation aspects of CIM, material planning for CIM system, and control & simulation of CIM - all we have discussed in earlier sections. These topics are directing the technology of manufacturing to the fully automated factory of the future. In this unit, we shall discuss regarding the trends in manufacturing, the future automated factory, and their social impact on society.
Objectives
After studying this unit, you should be able to
- Understand the trends in manufacturing,
- Describe the future automated factory, and
- Appreciate the social impacts of automation of factors.