Operation Bandit-CIM from a user perspective

A fully automated, computer-integrated factory has been implemented. Display pagers with a lot size of one are produced utilizing a state-of-the-art computer control system. Pagers are manufactured with shorter cycle times, higher quality, lower costs, and greater inventory turns than with traditional manufacturing methods. A key to the implementation of cost-competitive domestic manufacturing is an effective CIM (computer-integrated manufacturing) strategy. The demand for a zero-setup-time, lot-size-of-one, built-to-order automated manufacturing system required an advanced CIM system. Each pager is unique, with a special set of hardware and software customized to the end user. The CIM system supporting the database driven factory allows over 21 million combinations of product to be manufactured individually, one at a time. The CIM hardware and software architectures are described.<>