• Basic layouts for material handling include,
- lines - stations arranged along a fixed part transfer path.
- batch - stations are grouped by function and batches of raw materials/WIP are brought in batches
- job shop - individual parts are carried through one or more stages by one worker
- job site - equipment is brought to the work
• These transfer systems can also be categorized by their timing approach,
- synchronous - the entire line moves parts with a fixed period cycle. This is well suited to mass production of similar products.
- asynchronous - parts are moved as completed or needed. Often buffers are required, but this is more tolerant of problems than synchronous systems.
- continuous - the product flows by without stopping
• Random, independent movement of palletized workparts between workstations in the FMS
- pallets can flow from any station to any other
- parts are mounted in pallet fixtures
- pallets can move independently to avoid interference
• Temporary storage or banking of workparts
- queues allow parts to wait for machines, thus increasing efficiency
• Convenient access for loading and unloading workparts
- easy to do manual load/unload.
- automatic loading/unloading of parts at workstations
- can load/unload from either side of system
• Compatible with computer control
• Provision for future expansion
- modular extensions to system are desirable
• Adherence to all applicable industrial codes
- allow unobstructed floor level access to each workstation
• Operation in shop environment
- must be reliable when exposed to metal chips, cutting fluids, oil, dirt, etc.
• Common type of Material handling systems
- power and free overhead conveyors
