An Evaluation Framework for AGVS Within FMS

Abstract

Manufacturing can be seen as the design, evaluation, implementation and control of production systems. This article concentrates on the evaluation aspect as it proposes theoretical underpinnings drawn from the design of decision support systems (DSS) on the one hand, and the theory of logistics on the other hand. An evaluation framework is presented for new manufacturing technologies, in particular, for material handling systems such as AGVS, typically found within FMS. The role of material handling systems within FMS is essentially one of physical integration. Investments in these systems are essentially investments in flexibility. Therefore, this aspect is particularly emphasized in the proposed framework which emphasizes the interdisciplinary nature of the evaluation process and the fact that flexibilities pertaining to MHS may be in a trade off relationship. The methodology involved in this evaluation process includes multiattribute models such as the Analytic Hierarchy Process and the Displaced Ideal Model and suggests how these could be integrated with technological and systems aspects of AGVS.