A simulation model for designing the automation of future's factory

The factory of the future is going to have a high, but not full, degree of automation. There are three reasons for that. First, no great level of automation is compatible with required flexibility and polyvalence of the processes, regarding the very frequent coming new product versions and changes. The second reason is that product/process integrated evolution is an endless task, and excessive automation could inhibit significative ideas for improvement. And finally, the third one is that the organizational model that advanced technology suggests must be affordable and “resonant” with it. In other words, technology is an “excitation” wave for changing the current organization. Then, the intention of a manufacturing strategy today is to decide and follow the most convenient degree of automation compatible with flexibility, polyvalence and “the current to desired” organisational model. Keywords Logistics and manufacturing strategy, simulation, flexible automation. 

• Type: Conference
• Year: 1997
• Where: IFIP
• Authors: Javier Borda Elejabarrieta
• Keywords: Automation, IFIP 1997, Manufacturing Strategy, Product/process Integrated Evolution, Programming Languages