Object-Oriented Modeling for Flexible Manufacturing Systems

Object-oriented modeling provides a new way of thinking about flexible manufacturing systems, using models organized around real-world concepts. This paper describes how the object modeling technique can be used to develop integrated factory models that embrace factory process modeling as well as policy modeling. Such models can be used to assess how quickly a manufacturing organization can adjust its operations to meet changes in demands for products, consumer preferences, supplier quality, and lead times. These models also can be used as vehicles for studying the impact of introducing new product lines or new process technology without the disruption or expense of pilot projects or test setups.