Glossary · Manufacturing systems
Flexible manufacturing system (FMS)
Also known as: FMS
German: Flexibles Fertigungssystem (FMS)
In manufacturing, a flexible manufacturing system (FMS) is a group of numerically controlled machine tools linked by automated material handling and a central control, able to machine different parts in varying order and quantity with little manual intervention.
- Manufacturing systems
In one sentence
A flexible manufacturing system (FMS) links CNC machines, automated handling and central control to make varying parts automatically.
Example
The FMS with four machining centers and a pallet storage system machines 60 different housings unmanned over the night shift.
How it applies
- Engineering: An FMS typically includes machining centers, a pallet or part handling system, a tool management system and a cell computer that schedules jobs and distributes NC programs.
- Operation: The FMS can run with few staff, often unmanned during night shifts. Reliable tool life management, process monitoring and fault recovery are prerequisites.
- Safety: Automatic pallet changes and robots mean moving parts without an operator present. Access to loading stations and machines must be controlled, and the operating manual must cover unmanned operation.
- Documentation: Documentation spans the machine tools, handling system and cell software. Provide a system-level manual that explains operating modes, loading, recovery after faults and how the parts interact.
FMS vs. reconfigurable manufacturing system
An FMS is flexible within its built-in capability. A Reconfigurable manufacturing system is designed to change its structure, such as adding modules, when demand changes.