Flexible Automation: The Global Diffusion of New Technology in the Engineering Industry

Abstract

Part I Introduction - scope and outline. Part II The diffusion of flexible automation techniques in the engineering industries in the OECD countries: diffusion of technology - a conceptual framework numerically controlled machine tools industrial robots flexible manufacturing systems computer aided design systems flexible automation and international competitiveness flexible automation and employment. Part III The diffusion of flexible automation techniques in the engineering industries of the newly industrializing countries: numerically controlled machine tools industrial robots and FMS CAD systems implications for the developing countries Part IV Main findings.