An experience and effect of FMS in machine factory

Abstract

Abstract FUJITSU FANUC LTD. has installed an FMS using recent CNCs, robots and associated technologies in its new machine factory for manufacturing robots, wire-cut machines, etc. That is, there installed a bunch of cells which consist of over thirty NC machine tools and over ten robots, and each cell is machining different workpieces from time to time, being commanded by CNCs having large-capacity bubble memories storing many different kinds of part programs. Two automatic-warehouses are located and three unmanned vehicles run around to make frequent transportation of workpieces between the cells and the warehouses. Each cell has Monitor which will detect tool-breakage and tool-life, thus, this typical many-kinds small-lot production machine factory can be kept running 24 hours. This actual experience and effect will be reported.