UNIT-3 PART-A

Short Answer Questions

What is the purpose of MACRO statement command in APT
A macro variable must satisfy the rules that apply to a variable symbol, with the exception that
it can appear elsewhere in the same part program; that is, the same symbolic name can be used
1
as a macro variable in more than one macro in the same part program; also, the same symbol
can be used as a statement label or variable symbol external to macros that use it as a macro
variable
Define what are the preparatory and auxiliary functions in CNC programming
Preparatory functions are the G-codes that identify the type of activities the machine will
2 execute. A program block may contain one or more G-codes.
CNC milling machine basic auxiliary functions include cutting fluid switch control, lubrication
control, tool change tool control, and the spindle box gear shift control.
Define Canned Cycle
A canned cycle is a combination of machine movements that perform machining operation
like drilling, milling, boring and tapping. This cycle simplifies the program by using a single
3
block with a G-code to specify the machining operations usually specified in several blocks.
This cycle is also called as fixed cycle.

With a neat sketch, define the three types of surfaces used in APT language.

Drive surfaces represent the surface along which the vertical edges of the tool will follow.
Part surfaces specify the surfaces the tip of the tool will follow.
check surfaces describe where the tool will come to rest after it has completed the motion of
the current step.
List out the APT modifiers
1. TO
2. ON
5
3. FAST
4. TANT

Descriptive Questions

A Write a part program for the profile given by using G-codes and M-codes assuming suitable
1
data (all dimensions are in mm)
 04252
N10 G90 G21 G99 F0.2
N20 M06 T04 04
N30 M03 S1200
N40 M08
N50 G28 U0 W0
N60 G71 U0.5 R1
N70 G71 P80 Q130 U0.5 W0.1
N80 G00 X16
N90 G01 X20 Z-2
N100 G01 Z-15
N110 G03 X30 Z-20 R5
N120 G01 Z-30
N130 G02 X38 Z-34 R4
N140 G28 U0 W0
N150 M05 M09 M30
B Discuss about Computer Aided Part Programming
 A Write the complete APT part program for the following

2
 Using the APT programming language as an example, the following statement might be used to
define a point :
P1 – POINT/6.0, 1.125,0
The point is identified by the symbol P1 and is located at x = 6.0, y = 1.125, and z = 0.
Similarly, a circle in the x–y plane might be defined by the APT statement
C1 = CIRCLE/CENTER, P1 , RADIUS, 1.12
The center of circle C1 is Pi (previously defined) and the radius is 1.125.
The various geometric elements in the drawing of Figure would be identified in a similar
fashion by the part programmer.
line L2 onto line L3 :
GOLFT/L3, PAST, L1

A Discuss various geometric and motion control commands in APT. Write their syntax
The geometric type describes these features. POINT, LINE, PLANE, and CIRCLE are valid
APT geometric types.
Syntax:
Symbol=Geometry type/ descriptive data
Examples
P1=POINT/INTOF L1, L2
L1=LINE/P0, P1
3
PL0=PLANE/P0, P1. P2
The motion control statements FROM, GO, GODLTA
Syntax:
motion/description
Examples
FROM/P0
GO/TO P1
GODLTA 0,0,-10
A Distinguish between manual part programming and computer assisted part programming

4
 B Brief about manual part programming and NC words

UNIT-IV

Short Answer Questions

List design attributes used in GT

● Basic (External/Internal) shape
● Ax symmetric/Prismatic/sheet metal
● Length/diameter ratio
1 ● Material
● Major dimensions
● Minor dimensions
● Tolerances
● Surface finish
List manufacturing attributes used in GT
2 ● Major process of manufacture
● Surface treatments/coatings
 ● Machine tool/processing equipment
● Cutting tools
● Operation sequence
● Production time
● Batch quantity
● Production rate
● Fixtures needed

Define accuracy and precession

Accuracy is the degree of closeness between a measurement and its true value.
3
Precision is the degree to which repeated measurements under the same conditions show the
same results.
Summarize the flexibility in contact inspection techniques with a figure
Flexibility in contact inspection techniques refers to the ability to adapt and customize the
methods used to inspect surfaces or objects. This flexibility can be crucial in various industries,
4
such as manufacturing and quality control, where different materials, shapes, and sizes need to
be inspected.

Define Polycode
An attribute code is also called a polycode, a chain code, a discrete code or a fixed-digit code.
5
The meaning of each character in an attribute code is independent of any other character; thus,
each attribute of a part can be assigned a specific position in an attribute code.
List different types of CMM
 Bridge
6  cantilever
 gantry
 horizontal arm.
Define composite part of Group Technology
A composite part is formed by merging the primitives of all the parts of a part family. Thus, the
7
composite is a single hypothetical part that can be completely processed in a manufacturing
cell/group.
Define Monocode
Monocode or hierarchical code A monocode (hierarchical code) provides a large amount of
8
information in a relatively small number of digits. Useful for storage and retrieval of design
related information such as part geometry, material, size, etc.
Discuss briefly regarding integration of CAQC with CAD/CAM
The integration of Computer-Aided Quality Control (CAQC) with Computer-Aided Design
(CAD) and Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM) is a critical aspect of modern manufacturing
processes. It involves leveraging digital technologies to enhance the quality control processes
9 within a manufacturing environment.
The integration of CAQC with CAD/CAM is a powerful approach to enhance quality control
processes in manufacturing. It leverages digital tools to ensure that products meet the specified
design and quality standards, ultimately leading to more efficient and reliable production
processes.
List any three advantages of CAQC
 Increased in operational efficiency.
10  100 percent testing and inspection.
 Use of non-control sensors.
 Computerized feedback control system.
 Descriptive Questions

A What is meant by Group Technology? Describe about a part family

Group technology is an operations management philosophy based on the recognition that
similarities occur in the design and manufacture of discrete parts. Similar parts can then be
arranged into part families. To implement such a system, some form of classification of parts
and coding is required. Part classification and coding is concerned with identifying the
similarities and using these similarities to evolve classification code. Similarities are of two
types: design attributes (such as geometric shape and size), and manufacturing attributes (the
sequence of processing steps required to make the part).
Part family is a collection of parts which are similar either because of geometry and size or
because similar processing steps are required in their manufacture. The parts within a family are
1 different, but their similarities are close enough to merit their identification as members of the
part family. The major obstacle in changing over to group technology from a traditional
production shop is the problem of grouping parts into families. There are three general methods
for solving this problem.
i. Visual inspection
ii. Production flow analysis
iii. Parts classification and coding system
What is desirable in a computer integrated manufacturing environment come out witha set of
alphabetic/numeric characters which can broadly embed similarities.

B Explain any two coding systems used in GT with suitable example

 A Brief about coding and classification systems. Explain one from each
When using a code to represent an engineering design, it is important to represent the basic
features of the design. For process planning, it is desirable to have codes that can distinguish
unique production families. Some of the coding systems that have been successfully
implemented in process planning are given below:
i. OPITZ system
ii. The CODE system
iii. The KK-3 system
iv. The MICLASS system
v. DCLASS system
vi. COFORM (coding for machining)
When implementing a parts classification and coding system, most companies can purchase a
commercially available package or develop a system for their own specific use.

Classification systems:
i. Hierarchical structure
 ii. Chain type structure
iii. Hybrid structure which is a combination of the above two
With the hierarchical structure, the interpretation of each succeeding symbol depends on the
value of the preceding symbols.
In the chain type structure, the interpretation of each symbol in the sequence is fixed and does
not depend on the value of preceding digits
B Demonstrate the procedure or various steps for PFA

A Enumerate the benefits of GT and explain in brief

The advantages of group technology are:

 Better lead times result in fast response and more reliable delivery.

 Material handling is reduced considerably.

 Robots can be easily used for material handling.

3  Better space utilisation.

 Smaller variety of tools, jigs and fixtures.

 Improved quality and less scrap.

 Output is improved due to improved resource utilisation.

 Work in progress and finished stock levels are reduced.

B Suppose that four machines 1, 2, 3, and 4 have been identified as belonging in a GT machine
cell. An analysis of 50 parts processed on these machines has been summarized in the From-
To chart of Table shown. Additional information is that 50 parts enter the machine grouping
at machine 3, 20 parts leave after processing at machine 1, and 30 parts leave after machine 4.
Determine a logical machine arrangement using Hollier Method
 A What is meant by Computer Aided Processes Planning? Explain either Retrieval type or
4
Generative type system
 Computer aided processes planning
There are several problems encountered with manual process planning, attempts have
beenmade in recent years to capture the logic, judgment, and experience required for
thisimportant function and incorporates them into computer programs. Based on the
characteristics of a given part, the program automatically generates the manufacturing operation
sequence. A Computer Aided Process Planning (CAPP) system offers the potential for reducing
the routine clerical work of manufacturing engineers. At the same time, it provides the
opportunity to generate production routings which are rational, consistent, and perhaps even
optimal. Two alternative approaches these are:
1. Retrieval-type CAPP systems (also called variant system).
2. Generative CAPP systems
Variant approach: variant approach, which is also called retrieval approach, uses a GT code to
select generic process plan from the existing master process plans developed for each part family
and edits to suit the requirement of the part (fig.4.8). Variant approach is commonly
implemented with GT coding system. Here, the parts are segmented into groups based on
similarity and each group has a master plan. But, this approach is impractical in situations where
small batches of widely varying parts are produced. Moreover, this method fails to capture real
knowledge or expertise of process planners and there is a danger of repeating mistakes from
earlier plans that were stored in the database.

A Explain the working principle of computer /machine vision system with a neat sketch.
To understand how a machine vision system works, it may be helpful to envision it performing a
typical function, such as product inspection. First, the sensor detects if a product is present. If
there is indeed a product passing by the sensor, the sensor will trigger a camera to capture the
image, and a light source to highlight key features. Next, a digitizing device called a frame-
grabber takes the camera’s image and translates it into digital output, which is then stored in
computer memory so it can be manipulated and processed by software.
5 In order to process an image, computer software must perform several tasks. First, the image is
reduced in gradation to a simple black and white format. Next, the image is analyzed by system
software to identify defects and proper components based on predetermined criteria. After the
image has been analyzed, the product will either pass or fail inspection based on the machine
vision system’s findings.
These components of machine vision systems typically include the following five elements:
 The lighting system
  The optical system or lens
 The sensor
 The vision processing system
 The communications system
A Explain about the integration of CAQC with CAD/CAM
Although many important benefits result from the use of computer-aided quality control,
additional benefits can be obtained by integrating CAQC with CAD/CAM. The design
department creates the product definition and the manufacturing department makes use of and
supplements this definition to develop the manufacturing plan. It is important to add the QC
connection to the CAD/CAM data base to perform its function. Indeed, quality was defined as
the degree to which a product or its components conform to the standards specified by the
designer. These standards are all contained in the CAD/CAM data base, available for QC to use.
One way in which the data base can be used is to develop the NC programs to operate the
tape-controlled or computer-controlled coordinate measuring machines. These programs would
then be downloaded to the CMM through a DNC link from the central computer to the controller
unit for the CMM. The same sort of downloading process is possible for some of the noncontact
inspection methods.
Another way in which a common data base is helpful to QC is when engineering changes are
made to the product. Certainly, engineering changes are liable to have an influence on inspection
and testing. It is helpful for any changes to be recorded in a common data file for all
departments, including QC, to use.
Finally, another area where CAD/CAM benefits the QC function is in computer production
monitoring. The types of production records that are generated during computer monitoring are
sometimes useful to the quality control department in tracing the cause of poor quality in a
6 particular production lot.

B Explain about advantages of non contact inspection methods over contact inspection methods

The key advantages of non-contact inspection methods:

 Less Risk of Damage: Non-contact methods do not physically touch the object being
inspected, reducing the risk of damaging delicate or sensitive surfaces. This is
particularly important when dealing with fragile materials, precision components, or
objects with critical surface finishes.

 Improved Speed and Efficiency: Non-contact methods are often faster than contact
methods because they don't require the time-consuming process of physically moving
and placing sensors or probes on the object. This can result in quicker inspections and
reduced production downtime.

 Reduced Wear and Tear: Contact inspection methods can lead to wear and tear on
measurement tools, especially when inspecting rough or abrasive surfaces. Non-contact
methods do not suffer from this issue, leading to longer tool lifespan and cost savings.

 High Precision: Non-contact methods can achieve very high precision and accuracy.
Technologies such as laser scanning and optical measurement can capture fine details
and intricate features that might be challenging to measure accurately with contact
 methods.

 Versatility: Non-contact methods are versatile and suitable for a wide range of
applications, including measuring complex shapes, inspecting objects with challenging
geometries, and assessing objects with limited accessibility. Contact methods may
struggle with such scenarios.
A How do you classify the noncontact inspection methods? Explain one from each category
(optical and non optical)
Noncontact inspection methods are mainly divided into two categories:
optical and nonoptical inspection. Optical systems are the dominant type of noncontact
inspection method. These systems generally rely on the use of microelectronics technology and
computer processing of the sensing signals. There are a variety of optical sensing techniques
used for inspection work.
1. Machine vision
2. Scanning laser beam devices
3. Photogrammetric
In addition to noncontact inspection methods based on optical systems, non optical approaches
can also be used.
1. Electrical field techniques
2. Radiation techniques
3. Ultrasonic’s
Scanning laser system used in computer aided quality control
7 The advantage of the laser beam device is that it is a coherent light beam which can be projected
great distances without significant diffusion. Lasers have found many applications in industrial
measurement problems. The scanning laser beam device relies on the measurement of time
rather than light, although a light sensor is required in its operation. The schematic diagram of its
operation is pictured below. A laser is used to project a continuous thin beam of light. A rotating
mirror deflects the beam so that it sweeps across the object to be measured. The light sensor is
located at the focal point of the lens system to detect the interruption of the light beam as it is
blocked by the object.

A Brief about i. CAI and CAT ii. CMM

8
Computer assisted instruction (CAI), also known as Computer Based Instruction or Computer
 Managed Instruction, is the instructional method that uses a computer for transmission. CAI is
used to enhance the quality of instruction and facilitate it. There are various CAI programs
which incorporate tutorials, drill and practice, simulation, and problem solving approaches to
render any topic understandable.

Computer-aided testing (CAT) The application of computers to control either analog or digital
test techniques in order to evaluate the quality of components and products. Computer-aided
testing is used to check that the component parts, subassemblies, and full systems are within
specified tolerances and also perform up to specification.

CMM machine stands for Coordinate Measuring Machine. It is a tool that can measure the
dimensions of a machine/tool parts using coordinate technology. The dimension open to
measurements include the height, width and depth in the X, Y, and Z axis. Depending on the
CMM machine’s sophistication, you can measure the target and record the measured data.

The CMM machine has the speed and accuracy to repeatably measure parts better than the
traditional method. It also increases productivity while reducing the tendency of having errors in
the measuring process. The bottom line is that knowing what a CMM machine is, why you need
them, and using them will save time, money and improve your company’s reputation and image.

UNIT-V

Short Answer Questions

List the challenges in implementing CIM
1. High Implementation Cost 2. Security concerns 3. Resistance to change
1 4. Complex System Integration 5. Compatibility issues
6. Data management

2 List the future prospects of CIM

 Automation and Robotics
 IOT and Industry 4.0
 Data Analytics and AI
 Supply Chain Integration
 Customization and Mass Personalization
 Remote Monitoring and Control
 Sustainability
List out the components of CIM
 Marketing
 Product Design
 Planning
 Purchase
3  Manufacturing Engineering
 Factory Automation Hardware
 Warehousing
 Logistics and Supply Chain Management
 Finance
 Information Management
4 Summarize the benefits of CIM
 Increased Efficiency
  Cost Reduction
 Enhanced Quality Control
 Flexibility and Adaptability
 Reduced Lead Times
 Inventory Management
 Improved Communication
 Better Decision-Making
 Predictive Maintenance
Name the types of manufacturing systems

6 List the objectives of Manufacturing Support Systems

 Process Optimization
 Quality Control
 Cost Reduction
 Resource Management
 Inventory Management
 Production Planning and Scheduling
 Maintenance and Reliability
 Lean Manufacturing
 Data Collection and Analysis
 Environmental Sustainability
7 Name human labour in manufacturing. What is the duty of rover operator
 Assembly line workers
 Machine operators
 Welders
 Painters and finishers
The rover operator task is to Field Operation of assigned facilities/unit by monitoring
performance of static and rotating equipment. Inspecting for functionality fire protection and
safety equipment. Making adjustments to process equipment as instructed. First line
intervention in case of fire, fluid leaks and injury.

8 Name the two material handling systems.

 Primary material handling
 Secondary material handling
Descriptive Questions
A Discuss the computerized elements of CIM system.
 Marketing: The need for a product is identified by the marketing division. The
1 specifications of the product, the projection of manufacturing quantities and the strategy
for marketing the product are also decided by the marketing department.
 Product Design: The design department of the company establishes the initial database
 for production of a proposed product. In a CIM system this is accomplished through
activities such as geometric modeling and computer aided design while considering the
product requirements and concepts generated by the creativity of the design engineer.
 Planning: The planning department takes the database established by the design
department and enriches it with production data and information to produce a plan for
the production of the product.
 Purchase: The purchase departments is responsible for placing the purchase orders and
follow up, ensure quality in the production process of the vendor, receive the items,
arrange for inspection and supply the items to the stores or arrange timely delivery
depending on the production schedule for eventual supply to manufacture and assembly.
 Manufacturing Engineering: Manufacturing Engineering is the activity of carrying out
the production of the product, involving further enrichment of the database with
performance data and information about the production equipment and processes.
 Factory Automation Hardware: Factory automation equipment further enriches the
database with equipment and process data, resident either in the operator or the
equipment to carry out the production process.
 Warehousing: Warehousing is the function involving storage and retrieval of raw
materials, components, finished goods as well as shipment of items. In today’s complex
outsourcing scenario and the need for just-in-time supply of components and
subsystems, logistics and supply chain management assume great importance.
 Finance: Finance deals with the resources pertaining to money. Planning of investment,
working capital, and cash flow control, realization of receipts, accounting and allocation
of funds are the major tasks of the finance departments.
 ix. Information Management: Information Management is perhaps one of the crucial
tasks in CIM. This involves master production scheduling, database management,
communication, manufacturing systems integration and management information
systems.
A Explain the CIM Wheel and its functions.

2
Process Integration: CIM integrates various manufacturing processes, such as design, planning,
scheduling, production, quality control, and maintenance, into a single cohesive system. This
integration helps in streamlining operations and improving efficiency.
Data Management: CIM systems collect and store vast amounts of data related to
manufacturing processes, including product designs, inventory levels, production schedules,
and quality control data. This data can be used for analysis and decision-making.
Product Design and Development: CIM facilitates computer-aided design (CAD) and
computer-aided engineering (CAE), allowing for the creation of detailed product designs,
simulations, and prototypes. This helps in optimizing product designs and reducing
development time.
Quality Control: CIM supports quality control by monitoring and analyzing data related to
product quality and production processes. It enables real-time monitoring, early detection of
 defects, and corrective actions.
Cost Reduction: By streamlining processes, improving efficiency, and reducing waste, CIM can
lead to cost reductions in manufacturing operations.
A What are the different types of manufacturing systems? Explain with characteristics of each
type of system
1. Job Shop Manufacturing: It produces a wide variety of products in small quantities. It
characterizes a high degree of flexibility and customization and is a one-of-a-kind or custom
product.
2. Batch Production: It produces small quantities of products. It is the ability to create
various products using the same equipment with moderate complexity.
3. Flow Production: It produces large quantities of products. It is a high degree of automation
and a continuous flow of materials and information.
4. Lean Manufacturing: It minimizes waste, maximizes efficiency, and increases overall
quality. The use of pull systems, continuous improvement, and waste elimination in the
production process characterizes it.
5. Just-in-time (JIT) Manufacturing: It is characterized by producing goods only when
needed rather than producing goods in advance and storing them in inventory. It helps to
reduce waste and costs and improve overall efficiency.
6. Mass Customization is characterized by the ability to produce large quantities of
customized products with high flexibility and efficiency. It helps meet customers’ specific
needs by leveraging advanced technologies such as automation and robotics.

B List out the various business function included in CIM

3
1. Product Design and Development:

 Computer-Aided Design (CAD)

 Computer-Aided Engineering (CAE)
 Product Lifecycle Management (PLM)

2. Process Planning and Optimization:

 Computer-Aided Process Planning (CAPP)

 Manufacturing Resource Planning (MRP II)

3. Production Planning and Control:

 Master Production Scheduling (MPS)

 Material Requirements Planning (MRP)
 Finite Capacity Scheduling
 Just-In-Time (JIT) and Lean Manufacturing

4. Inventory Management:

 Inventory Control
 Material Handling and Storage
 Kanban Systems
 5. Quality Control and Assurance:

 Statistical Process Control (SPC)

 Total Quality Management (TQM)
 Quality Management Systems (e.g., ISO 9000)

6. Shop Floor Control:

 Machine Monitoring
 Work Order Management
 Production Tracking
A What are the different types of machine tools and related equipment used in CIM. How do you
select the machine tool, explain

 CNC Machine Tools: Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machines are the backbone
of modern manufacturing in CIM. These machines can be programmed to perform a
wide range of operations, such as milling, turning, drilling, and grinding. Common types
of CNC machine tools include CNC milling machines, CNC lathes, and CNC machining
centers.
 Conventional Machine Tools: Traditional machine tools like lathes, milling machines,
and drill presses are still used in many CIM systems, especially in cases where CNC
machines are not cost-effective or necessary.
 Tooling and Cutting Tools: Various cutting tools, such as drills, end mills, and inserts,
are used in machining operations. Tool changers and tool pre setters are also part of
CIM systems to optimize tooling.
 Work holding Devices: Fixtures and clamping systems are used to hold work pieces
securely during machining operations.
 CAD/CAM Software: Computer-Aided Design (CAD) and Computer-Aided
Manufacturing (CAM) software are essential for designing parts and generating
toolpaths for CNC machines.
4  Sensors and Instrumentation: Sensors are used to collect data and monitor various
aspects of the manufacturing process, including temperature, pressure, and vibration.
We can select the machine tool based on these parameters:
Process Requirements:
Determine the specific machining or manufacturing processes that your product or
components require. Consider factors like milling, turning, grinding, drilling, and additive
manufacturing
Part and Material Characteristics:
Assess the size, complexity, and material properties of the parts you need to produce. Some
machine tools are better suited for small, intricate components, while others are designed for
larger work pieces.

Flexibility:
Assess the flexibility of the machine tool. Can it accommodate a range of part sizes and
geometries, or is it specialized for specific tasks?

Tooling and Work holding:

Evaluate the tooling and work holding options compatible with the machine tool. Consider
the availability and cost of tooling and the ease of setting up work pieces.
 Energy Efficiency:
Consider the energy consumption of the machine tool. Energy-efficient machines can
reduce operating costs and have a smaller environmental footprint.

Maintenance and Reliability:

Evaluate the machine tool's maintenance requirements and reliability. Downtime due to
maintenance can impact productivity.

Cost and Budget:

Determine your budget constraints and the overall cost of the machine tool, including
purchase, installation, and ongoing operating costs
5 A Demonstrate in detail the material handling equipment used in CIM. Distinguish between traffic
and shuttle control with respect to the handling equipment
The material handling system in a CIMS must be designed to serve two functions. The first
function is to move work parts between machines. The second is to orient and locate the work
parts for processing at the machines. These two functions are often accomplished by means of
two different but connected materials handling systems. These are referred as the primary
handling system and the secondary system.
The primary work handling system is used to move parts between machine tools in the CIMS.
The requirements usually placed on the primary material handling system are:
● It must be compatible with computer control
● It must provide random, independent movement of palletized work parts between machine
tools in the system
The secondary parts handling system must present parts to the individual machine tools in the
CIMS. The secondary system generally consists of one transport mechanism for each machine.
The specifications placed on the secondary materials handling system are:
● It must be compatible with computer control
● It must permit temporary storage of work parts.

Traffic Control:
 Traffic control is a method used to manage the flow of goods on conveyors or other
handling equipment within a facility.
 It involves coordinating the movement of various loads (items, pallets, totes) along
predefined paths and routes.
 Traffic control systems use sensors, programmable logic controllers (PLCs), and
software to ensure that loads move smoothly, avoid collisions, and reach their intended
destinations.
 It's often used in applications where multiple items are being transported along common
pathways, such as in a conveyor belt system used for sorting and distribution.

Shuttle Control:
 Shuttle control is a method specifically related to automated storage and retrieval
systems (AS/RS) and is used to manage the movement of shuttles within these systems.
 In AS/RS, shuttles are robotic devices that move vertically and horizontally within a
storage structure to retrieve or store items.
 Shuttle control systems are responsible for coordinating the movements of shuttles to
access specific storage locations, pick or place items, and optimize the use of storage
space.
 Shuttle control systems often rely on complex algorithms to maximize the efficiency of
the AS/RS, considering factors like item retrieval speed and minimizing travel
distances.
6 A Describe the various computer control systems used in CIM. List out and explain
 Machine control: this is usually accomplished by computer numerical control (CNC).
The advantage of CNC is that it can be conveniently interfaced with the other elements
of the computer control system.
 Direct numerical control (DNC): Most computer-integrated manufacturing systems
operate under DNC. The purpose of direct numerical control is to perform the usual
DNC functions, including NC part program storage, distribution of programs to the
individual machines in the system, post processing and so on.
 Production control: This function includes decisions on part mix and rate of input of
the various parts onto the system. These decisions are based on data entered into the
computer, such as desired production rate per day for the various parts, numbers of raw
work parts available, and number of available pallets.
 Traffic control: This term refers to the regulation of the primary work-piece transport
system which moves parts between workstations. This control can be accomplished by
dividing the transport system into zones.
 Shuttle control: this is concerned with the regulation of the secondary part handling
systems at each machine tool. Each shuttle system must be coordinated with the primary
handling system, and it must also be synchronized with the operations of the machine
tool it serves
 Work handling system monitoring: the computer must monitor the status of each cart
and/or pallet in the primary and secondary handling systems as well as the status of each
of the various work part types in the system.
 Tool control: Monitoring and control of cutting tool status is an important feature of the
computer system. There are two aspects to tool control: accounting for the location of
each tool in the CIMs and tool-life monitoring.
7 A List out the various human labour used in CIM. Explain about their duties and responsibility
 Assembly line workers
 Machine operators
 Welders
 Painters and finishers
 Maintenance Technicians
 Equipment Specialists
 Control Room Operators
 CNC Programmers
 Quality Inspectors
 Design Engineers
The duties and responsibilities are:
 Loading raw work parts into the system
 Unloading finished parts (or assemblies) from the system
 changing and setting tools
 equipment maintenance and repair
 NC part programming in a machining system
 Programming and operating the computer system
 Overall management of the system.

8 A What is the scope and objects of CIM and how it is useful in manufacturing industry? What are
the benefits over conventional manufacturing
Scope of CIM:

 Integration of Manufacturing Processes: CIM involves the seamless integration of

design, planning, scheduling, production, quality control, maintenance, and other
 manufacturing processes within a single, cohesive system.

 Automation and Control: CIM leverages automation technologies to control and monitor
manufacturing equipment and processes, reducing the need for manual intervention.

 Information Management: CIM systems collect, store, and utilize vast amounts of data
related to manufacturing operations, including product designs, material flows, and
quality control data.

Objectives of CIM:

 Efficiency Improvement: CIM aims to streamline manufacturing processes, reduce lead

times, and improve overall operational efficiency.

 Cost Reduction: By optimizing resource utilization and minimizing waste, CIM seeks to
reduce manufacturing costs.

 Increased Productivity: Automation and integration in CIM lead to increased

productivity, as machines and systems work together seamlessly.

Usefulness in the Manufacturing Industry:

CIM is highly valuable in the manufacturing industry for several reasons:

 Competitive Advantage: CIM allows companies to stay competitive in a global market

by optimizing operations and delivering high-quality products efficiently.

 Cost Efficiency: By reducing waste, optimizing resource use, and improving operational
efficiency, CIM helps manufacturers reduce production costs.

 Flexibility: CIM systems can quickly adapt to changes in market demand, allowing
manufacturers to respond to product variations and customer requirements.

 Quality Assurance: CIM enhances quality control and ensures that products meet or
exceed quality standards, reducing defects and rework.

Benefits over conventional manufacturing:

 Higher Efficiency and Productivity: CIM reduces manual intervention, streamlines

processes, and minimizes human errors, resulting in higher efficiency and increased
production rates.

 Cost Reduction: CIM systems optimize resource utilization, reduce material waste, and
minimize downtime, leading to cost savings in areas like labor, materials, and energy.

 Improved Quality Control: Real-time monitoring and data analysis in CIM systems
enhance quality control, leading to higher product quality and fewer defects.

 Faster Time-to-Market: CIM enables rapid prototyping, design iterations, and

production setup, allowing companies to bring new products to market more quickly.