Computer integrated manufacture

Definition

Takes the concept of integration of separate manufacturing technologies developed by flexible manufacturing systems a step further, by bringing all aspects of a company's operations together, not just the ones that are directly involved in manufacture.

Set-up and Tasks

A CIM system uses computer networks to integrate the processing of production and business information with the manufacturing operations, which creates cooperative and smooth running production lines.

Tasks performed within CIM include:
- Designing of the product using computer aided design.
- Planning the most cost-effective work flow.
- Controlling the operations of machines and equipment needed to manufacture the product.
- Performing business functions such as ordering atock and materials and invoicing customers.

Advantages

- Fast lead times can be met.
- Ease of communication.
- Cooperative and smooth running lines.

Disadvantages

- Its dependence on computer data to integrate all operations.
- All system software needs to be compatible.

- Reduces the need for manual skill.

- It increases unemployment as many systems become automated.

- Some jobs are reduced to minding the machines ans not working on them.

- It can improve safety levels as the workers are removed from the hazards.

- Workers need computer aided design/manufacture skills i.e. they need to be able to work with computers.

- Workers need to be retrained frequently to keep up to date with the changes in the technology.

- Workers need to be flexible so they can fulfil a number of roles.