Flexible Manufacturing Systems: An Overview

Global competition has made it necessary for many firms to introduce such advanced technologies as Flexible Manufacturing Systems (FMS). However, the extent of such technology applications varies from industry to industry and has met various degrees of success. Reviews the impetus for the introduction of FMS and the conceptual aspects of such systems. Analyses the state of research on FMS, explores problems faced by the firms in implementing FMS and discusses the benefits ensuing from successful implementation of FMS. Includes a relatively extensive bibliography.