A simulation study of FMS tool allocation procedures

Allocating the required tools to meet the cutting needs of component parts and products is an important element of FMS production planning. This research describes three heuristics that can be used to allocate tools to an FMS. The three heuristic procedures are then evaluated, through a simulation study, for an FMS that processes a low part type mix (10) and a high part type mix (25). Results indicate that a tool allocation approach that aims at full utilization of the tool magazine capacity produces better FMS performance than an approach that seeks to minimize the frequency of tool changes. An approach that aims at combining both minimal tool changes at the machines and greater tool magazine utilization will be even more beneficial, especially if the cost of tool changes is high relative to capacity utilization.