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Types of flexibilities

Descriptions

i

Machine Flexibility

When both the machine and the sequence of operations can be reconfigured to accommodate the changes required for producing a variety of product types or specific components. This encompasses product flexibility, process flexibility, and operation flexibility.

ii

Process Flexibility

It denotes the process’s ability to adjust to diverse manufacturing contexts and requirements. This flexibility represents the capability to manufacture a specific set of part types, each potentially utilizing different materials, through various methods.

iii

Product flexibility

It refers to the system’s ability to switch from producing one set of products efficiently and swiftly to another. It is all about adapting to changes in demand and maintaining cost-effectiveness.

iv

Routing Flexibility

When a manufacturing system possesses the flexibility to execute the same manufacturing operation using different machines and adapt to fluctuations in production capacity, such as an increase in the number of units to be manufactured. This flexibility is characterized by the ability to utilize alternative routes, involving alternative machines, operation sequences, or methods (volume flexibility and expansion flexibility). Chan (2001) defined it as the capability to manage breakdowns and continue producing the specified set of part types.

v

Volume flexibility

When the manufacturing system can be operated economically across various production volumes due to factors like increased automation, multipurpose machines, routing flexibility, and similar features.

vi

Expansion flexibility

The capability to expand the FMS effortlessly as needed. This can be accomplished through elements such as a non-dedicated, non-process-driven layout, a flexible materials handling system using wire-guided carts, and modular, flexible machining cells with pallet changers, along with routing flexibility.

vii

Operation flexibility

It refers to the system’s capability to change the order of operations for different part types. It allows for adaptability in the manufacturing process, accommodating variations in production requirements without significant reprogramming or reconfiguration. This flexibility is essential for efficiently handling diverse production needs in a dynamic manufacturing environment.

viii

Production Flexibility

It refers to the range of part types that an FMS can produce, dependent on the current technological capabilities. This concept encompasses the variety of production alternatives associated with a product and is closely tied to process flexibility and routing flexibility. Part flexibility contributes to resource dependability, especially when dealing with unpredictable resources. It can be categorized into two main types, each with several subcategories: Machine Flexibility (MF) and Routing Flexibility (RF). MF involves the FMS’s capability to utilize different machines to perform the same operation on a product and adapt to significant changes, such as in capacity, volume, or capability. RF pertains to the FMS’s ability to modify for producing different part types and alter the sequence of operations performed on a product.