Advantages of scaled and unscaled physical models for FMS research and instruction

The instruction of flexible manufacturing systems principles and analysis of these systems has been hindered by a lack of hands-on equipment to be used for both research and instruction. Full-size, scaled and graphical models of flexible manufacturing systems are beginning to appear at both universities and industries throughout the U.S. In this paper, the evolution of a flexible manufacturing system development methodology is discussed. A modular approach to NC machine development and flexible manufacturing systems development is also presented. The cost trade-offs and other advantages of these modeling approaches are also discussed.