Current trends in computer integrated manufacturing

A conceptual framework that is adaptable must be created so CIM users can evolve in an open and decentralized way, suppliers receive sufficient requirements when developing new products, and enterprises can establish migration paths for existing applications toward more integrated systems. A plant production system may be thought of as a vertical structure formed several levels. The top layer is often called the hot system. Below it are computing systems and area controllers to manage specific business centers. The third layer is the manufacturing workstation. To successfully integrate a CIM enterprise, it is necessary to be able to both physically and logically connect the three levels of architecture. The three major areas of integration that must occur while evolving to a CIM environment are physical, application, and business integration. Each level depends on the previous for support. These areas of integration are discussed.<>