An investigation into the effects of computer integrated manufacturing systems in the productivity of SMEs in Pakistan

The current dynamic and turbulent manufacturing environment has forced companies that compete globally to change their traditional methods of conducting business [Producer to consumer]. Recent developments in manufacturing and business operations have lead to the adoption of Computer Integrated Manufacturing (CIM) technologies that are based on systems and processes that support global competitiveness, especially for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs). Organizations and SMEs in particular need to re-evaluate every aspect of their manufacturing strategy and quickly move towards a CIM based environment where manufacturing technologies, business strategies and processes are integrated together. This paper highlights the development of a CIM adoption model that has resulted from empirical work generated from SMEs in Pakistan. The model consists of the parameters such as Top Management Support, System Integration, Marketing, and over all performance

The influencing mechanism of manufacturing scene change on process domain knowledge reuse

It is necessary for a enterprise to reuse outside process domain knowledge to develop intelligent manufacturing technology. The key factors influencing knowledge reuse in digital manufacturing scene are manufacturing activities and PPR (Products, Processes and Resources) related to knowledge modeling, enterprise and integrated systems related to knowledge utilizing. How these factors influence knowledge modeling and utilizing is analyzed. Process domain knowledge reuse across the enterprises consists of knowledge reconfiguration and integrated application with CAx systems. The module-based knowledge model and loosely-coupled integration application of process domain knowledge are proposed. The aircraft sheet metal process domain knowledge reuse is taken as an example, and it shows that the knowledge reuse process can be made flexible and rapid

Principles for aerospace manufacturing engineering in integrated new product introduction

This article investigates the value-adding practices of Manufacturing Engineering for integrated New Product Introduction. A model representing how current practices align to support lean integration in Manufacturing Engineering has been defined. The results are used to identify a novel set of guiding principles for integrated Manufacturing Engineering. These are as follows: (1) use a data-driven process, (2) build from core capabilities, (3) develop the standard, (4) deliver through responsive processes and (5) align cross-functional and customer requirements. The investigation used a mixed-method approach. This comprises case studies to identify current practice and a survey to understand implementation in a sample of component development projects within a major aerospace manufacturer. The research contribution is an illustration of aerospace Manufacturing Engineering practices for New Product Introduction. The conclusions will be used to indicate new priorities for New Product Introduction and the cross-functional interactions to support flawless and innovative New Product Introduction. The final principles have been validated through a series of consultations with experts in the sponsoring company to ensure that correct and relevant content has been defined

Integrated automation for manufacturing of electronic assemblies

Since 1985, the Naval Ocean Systems Center has been identifying and developing needed technology for flexible manufacturing of hybrid microelectronic assemblies. Specific projects have been accomplished through contracts with manufacturing companies, equipment suppliers, and joint efforts with other government agencies. The resulting technology has been shared through semi-annual meetings with government, industry, and academic representatives who form an ad hoc advisory panel. More than 70 major technical capabilities have been identified for which new development is needed. Several of these developments have been completed and are being shared with industry

Software for integrated manufacturing systems, part 2

Part 1 presented an overview of the unified approach to manufacturing software. The specific characteristics of the approach that allow it to realize the goals of reduced cost, increased reliability and increased flexibility are considered. Why the blending of a components view, distributed languages, generics and formal models is important, why each individual part of this approach is essential, and why each component will typically have each of these parts are examined. An example of a specification for a real material handling system is presented using the approach and compared with the standard interface specification given by the manufacturer. Use of the component in a distributed manufacturing system is then compared with use of the traditional specification with a more traditional approach to designing the system. An overview is also provided of the underlying mechanisms used for implementing distributed manufacturing systems using the unified software/hardware component approach

Design and development of a fast scan infrared detection and measurement instrument

Infrared microscope instrument measures and plots the infrared profile of semiconductor chips, transistors and integrated circuits. Infrared analyses yields information on electrical and physical properties, enabling manufacturing improvements in semiconductor performance and reliability. Operational performance and main sections of the instrument are given

A novel architecture for a reconfigurable micro machining cell

There is a growing demand for machine tools that are specifically designed for the manufacture of micro-scale components. Such machine tools are integrated into flexible micro-manufacturing systems. Design objectives for such tools include energy efficiency, small footprint and importantly flexibility, with the ability to easily reconfigure the manufacturing system in response to process requirements and product demands. Such systems find application in medical, photonics, automotive and electronic industries. In this paper, a new architecture for a reconfigurable micro manufacturing system is presented. The proposed architecture comprises a micro manufacturing cell with the key design feature being a hexagonal-base on which three tool heads can be attached to three of its sides. Each such machine-tool head, or processing module, is able to perform a different manufacturing process. These tool heads are interchangeable, enabling the cell to be configured to process a wide range of components with different materials, dimensions, tolerances and specification. Additional components of the cell include manipulation robots and an automated buffer unit. Such cells can be integrated into a manufacturing system via a modular conveyor belt to transfer parts from one cell to another and into assembly. A key consideration of the architecture is a control system that is also modular and reconfigurable; such that when new processing modules are introduced the control system is aware of the change and adjusts accordingly. Further to this coordination, issues between modules and machining cells are also considered. Other design considerations include work-piece holding and manipulation. This paper provides an overview of the architecture, the key design and implementation challenges as well as a high level operational performance assessment by means of a discrete event simulation model of the micro factory cell

Hybrid Manufacturing: Integrating Direct Write and Stereolithography

A commercial stereolithography (SL) machine was modified to integrate fluid dispensing or direct-write (DW) technology with SL in an integrated manufacturing environment for automated and efficient hybrid manufacturing of complex electrical devices, combining threedimensional (3D) electrical circuitry with SL-manufactured parts. The modified SL system operates similarly to a commercially available machine, although build interrupts were used to stop and start the SL build while depositing fluid using the DW system. An additional linear encoder was attached to the SL platform z-stage and used to maintain accurate part registration during the SL and DW build processes. Individual STL files were required as part of the manufacturing process plan. The DW system employed a three-axis translation mechanism that was integrated with the commercial SL machine. Registration between the SL part, SL laser and the DW nozzle was maintained through the use of 0.025-inch diameter cylindrical reference holes manufactured in the part during SL. After depositing conductive ink using DW, the SL laser was commanded to trace the profile until the ink was cured. The current system allows for easy exchange between SL and DW in order to manufacture fully functional 3D electrical circuits and structures in a semi-automated environment. To demonstrate the manufacturing capabilities, the hybrid SL/DW setup was used to make a simple multi-layer SL part with embedded circuitry. This hybrid system is not intended to function as a commercial system, it is intended for experimental demonstration only. This hybrid SL/DW system has the potential for manufacturing fully functional electromechanical devices that are more compact, less expensive, and more reliable than their conventional predecessors, and work is ongoing in order to fully automate the current system.Mechanical Engineerin