The Use of Numerical Control Technology in Small Metalworking Plants
Abstract
Numerical control of metalworking machines and flexible manufacturing systems could help raise metalworking productivity. These systems permit automation of small-lot production and more variety in design than mass production allows. The information requirements are much greater, however, and progress in adopting them has slower than anticipated. This report identifies three major barriers aside from market factors -- these have prevented more small firms from adopting numerical control techniques: The inability of small manufacturers to test objectively the new techniques on their own products, independently from the vendor; the difficulty of measuring the indirect benefits of automated equipment, such as the value of flexibility to a small firm; and the fear of too much costly downtime, because complex machinery cannot be repaired quickly.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 01, 1978
- Accession Number
- ADA363132
Entities
People
- George P. Putnam
Organizations
- IIT Research Institute