Title: The use of FMS for manufacture of engine parts

Authors: N. Tani, S. Ihara

Addresses: Powertrain Production Engineering Department, Mazda Motor Corporation, Fuchu-cho, Hiroshima-ken, Japan. ' Powertrain Production Engineering Department, Mazda Motor Corporation, Fuchu-cho, Hiroshima-ken, Japan

Abstract: In the manufacture of motor cars in recent years derivative engines have increasingly been used in order to meet users| needs. Accordingly the number of engines for each model has increased. Under the circumstances it is necessary to bear in mind two general considerations. One is to increase flexibility in production by establishing a mixed-flow line and another flow line which is isolated from the more exacting demands of productivity. The other consideration is to modify the medium and small quantity production region into a multi-purpose line for which it is helpful to adopt the FTL (Flexible Transfer Line). This satisfies the need to extend flexibility while maintaining a balance with productivity.

Keywords: derivative engines; flexible manufacturing systems; FMS; production lines; productivity; robots; engine parts manufacture; flexible transfer lines; flow lines; automotive manufacturing.

DOI: 10.1504/IJVD.1988.061502

International Journal of Vehicle Design, 1988 Vol.9 No.6, pp.687 - 701

Published online: 26 May 2014 *

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