Unit-5

COMPUTER INTEGRATED MANUFACTURING (CIM)

Computer Integrated Manufacturing (CIM)

Computer Integrated Manufacturing (CIM) encompasses the entire range of product
development and manufacturing activities with all the functions being carried out with the help
of dedicated software packages. The data required for various functions are passed from one
application software to another in a seamless manner. For example, the product data is created
during design. This data has to be transferred from the modeling software to manufacturing
software without any loss of data. CIM uses a common database wherever feasible and
communication technologies to integrate design, manufacturing and associated business
functions that combine the automated segments of a factory or a manufacturing facility.
CIM reduces the human component of manufacturing and thereby relieves the process of
its slow, expensive and error-prone component. CIM stands for a holistic and methodological
approach to the activities of the manufacturing enterprise in order to achieve vast improvement
in its performance. This methodological approach is applied to all activities from the design of
the product to customer support in an integrated way, using various methods, means and
techniques in order to achieve production improvement, cost reduction, fulfillment of scheduled
delivery dates, quality improvement and total flexibility in the manufacturing system. CIM
requires all those associated with a company to involve totally in the process of product
development and manufacture. In such a holistic approach, economic, social and human aspects
have the same importance as technical aspects. CIM also encompasses the whole lot of enabling
technologies including total quality management, business process reengineering, concurrent
engineering, workflow automation, enterprise resource planning and flexible manufacturing.

Manufacturing engineers are required to achieve the following objectives to be competitive in a

global context.
• Reduction in inventory
• Lower the cost of the product
• Reduce waste
• Improve quality
Increase flexibility in manufacturing to achieve immediate and rapid response to:
• Product changes
• Production changes
• Process change
• Equipment change
Change of personnel CIM technology is an enabling technology to meet the above challenges to
the manufacturing.

Computer Integrated Manufacturing (CIM) Page 1

CAD/CAM

CAD/CAM is an acronym for computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing. The

use of computers in design and manufacturing applications makes it possible to remove much of
the tedium and manual labor involved. For example, the many design specifications, blueprints,
material lists, and other documents needed to build complex machines can require thousands of
highly technical and accurate drawings and charts. If the engineers decide structural components
need to be changed, all of these plans and drawings must be changed. Prior to CAD/CAM,
human designers and draftspersons had to change them manually, a time consuming and error-
prone process. When a CAD system is used, the computer can automatically evaluate and change
all corresponding documents instantly. In addition, by using interactive graphics workstations,
designers, engineers, and architects can create models or drawings, increase or decrease sizes,
rotate or change them at will, and see results instantly on screen.

CAD is particularly valuable in space programs, where many unknown design variables are
involved. Previously, engineers depended upon trial-and-error testing and modification, a time
consuming and possibly life-threatening process. However, when aided by computer simulation
and testing, a great deal of time, money, and possibly lives can be saved. Besides its use in the
military, CAD is also used in civil aeronautics, automotive, and data processing industries.

CAM, commonly utilized in conjunction with CAD, uses computers to communicate

instructions to automated machinery. CAM techniques are especially suited for manufacturing
plants, where tasks are repetitive, tedious, or dangerous for human workers.

Computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) is defined as the effective use of computer technology in

manufacturing planning and control. CAM is most closely associated with functions in
manufacturing engineering, such as process planning and numerical control (NC) part
programming. With reference to our model of production in Section 13.2, the applications of
CAM can be divided into two broad categories:(1) manufacturing planning and (2)
manufacturing control. .

 Evolution of Computer Integrated Manufacturing

Computer Integrated Manufacturing (CIM) is considered a natural evolution of the

technology of CAD/CAM which by itself evolved by the integration of CAD and CAM.
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT, USA) is credited with pioneering the development
in both CAD and CAM. The need to meet the design and manufacturing requirements of
aerospace industries after the Second World War necessitated the development these
technologies. The manufacturing technology available during late 40's and early 50's could not
meet the design and manufacturing challenges arising out of the need to develop sophisticated
aircraft and satellite launch vehicles. This prompted the US Air Force to approach MIT to
develop suitable control systems, drives and programming techniques for machine tools using
electronic control.

The first major innovation in machine control is the Numerical Control (NC), demonstrated
at MIT in 1952. Early Numerical Control Systems were all basically hardwired systems, since
these were built with discrete systems or with later first generation integrated chips. Early NC

Computer Integrated Manufacturing (CIM) Page 2

machines used paper tape as an input medium. Every NC machine was fitted with a tape reader
to read paper tape and transfer the program to the memory of the machine tool block by block.
Mainframe computers were used to control a group of NC machines by mid 60's. This
arrangement was then called Direct Numerical Control (DNC) as the computer bypassed the tape
reader to transfer the program data to the machine controller. By late 60's mini computers were
being commonly used to control NC machines. At this stage NC became truly soft wired with the
facilities of mass program storage, offline editing and software logic control and processing. This
development is called Computer Numerical Control (CNC). Since 70's, numerical controllers are
being designed around microprocessors, resulting in compact CNC systems. A further
development to this technology is the distributed numerical control (also called DNC) in which
processing of NC program is carried out in different computers operating at different hierarchical
levels - typically from mainframe host computers to plant computers to the machine controller.
Today the CNC systems are built around powerful 32 bit and 64 bit microprocessors. PC based
systems are also becoming increasingly popular. Manufacturing engineers also started using
computers for such tasks like inventory control, demand forecasting, production planning and
control etc. CNC technology was adapted in the development of co-ordinate measuring
machine's (CMMs) which automated inspection. Robots were introduced to automate several
tasks like machine loading, materials handling, welding, painting and assembly. All these
developments led to the evolution of flexible manufacturing cells and flexible manufacturing
systems in late 70's. Evolution of Computer Aided Design (CAD), on the other hand was to cater
to the geometric modeling needs of automobile and aeronautical industries.

The developments in computers, design workstations, graphic cards, display devices and
graphic input and output devices during the last ten years have been phenomenal. This coupled
with the development of operating system with graphic user interfaces and powerful interactive
(user friendly) software packages for modeling, drafting, analysis and optimization provides the
necessary tools to automate the design process. CAD in fact owes its development to the APT
language project at MIT in early 50's. Several clones of APT were introduced in 80's to
automatically develop NC codes from the geometric model of the component. Now, one can
model, draft, analyze, simulate, modify, optimize and create the NC code to manufacture a
component and simulate the machining operation sitting at a computer workstation. If we review
the manufacturing scenario during 80's we will find that the manufacturing is characterized by a
few islands of automation. In the case of design, the task is well automated. In the case of
manufacture, CNC machines, DNC systems, FMC, FMS etc provide tightly controlled
automation systems. Similarly computer control has been implemented in several areas like
manufacturing resource planning, accounting, sales, marketing and purchase. Yet the full
potential of computerization could not be obtained unless all the segments of manufacturing are
integrated, permitting the transfer of data across various functional modules. This realization led
to the concept of computer integrated manufacturing. Thus the implementation of CIM required
the development of whole lot of computer technologies related to hardware and software.

Computer Integrated Manufacturing (CIM) Page 3

  CIM Hardware And CIM Software

CIM Hardware
Hardware comprises the following:
 Manufacturing Equipment: This includes CNC machines (Computer Numerical Control),
robots, automated assembly lines, and material handling systems. These technologies automate
repetitive tasks, improve precision, and increase production speed.
 Sensors and Data Collection Devices: These devices gather real-time data on machine
performance, production rates, and quality metrics, enabling manufacturers to monitor and
optimize processes.
 Computers and Workstations: Essential for running CIM software applications, these devices
process data, execute commands, and facilitate communication between different components of
the CIM system.
 Computers, controllers, CAD/CAM systems, workstations / terminals, data entry terminals, bar
code readers, RFID tags, printers, plotters and other peripheral devices, modems, cables,
connectors etc.,

CIM Software
It encompasses a wide range of applications:
 CAD/CAM Systems: Used for product design and manufacturing process planning. CAD
software allows engineers to create detailed 3D models of products, while CAM software
generates tool paths and instructions for CNC machines.
 Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES): MES software manages production schedules,
tracks work orders, and monitors real-time production data. It ensures that manufacturing
processes adhere to predefined quality standards and deadlines.
 Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP): ERP systems integrate CIM with other business
functions such as finance, procurement, and customer relationship management (CRM). They
provide a centralized platform for managing resources, optimizing supply chains, and improving
overall organizational efficiency.
 Simulation and Modeling Tools: These tools simulate manufacturing processes, predict
outcomes, and optimize production workflows. They enable manufacturers to test different
scenarios, identify potential bottlenecks, and make informed decisions before implementing
changes on the shop floor.

Computer Integrated Manufacturing (CIM) Page 4

CIM software comprises computer programmes to carry out the following functions:
Management Information System
1. Sales
2. Marketing
3. Finance
4. Database Management
5. Modeling and Design
6. Analysis
7. Simulation
8. Communications
9. Monitoring
10. Production Control
11. Manufacturing Area Control
12. Job Tracking
13. Inventory Control
14. Shop Floor Data Collection
15. Order Entry
16. Materials Handling
17. Device Drivers
18. Process Planning
19. Manufacturing Facilities Planning
20. Work Flow Automation
21. Business Process Engineering
22. Network Management
23. Quality Management

 Nature And Role Of The Elements Of CIM System

Nine major elements of a CIM system
i. Marketing: The need for a product is identified by the marketing division. The
specifications of the product, the projection of manufacturing quantities and the strategy for
marketing the product are also decided by the marketing department. Marketing also works
out the manufacturing costs to assess the economic viability of the product.
ii. 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.
Configuration management is an important activity in many designs. Complex designs are
usually carried out by several teams working simultaneously, located often in different parts
of the world. The design process is constrained by the costs that will be incurred in actual

Computer Integrated Manufacturing (CIM) Page 5

 production and by the capabilities of the available production equipment and processes. The
design process creates the database required to manufacture the part.
iii.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. Planning involves several subsystems dealing with materials,
facility, process, tools, manpower, capacity, scheduling, outsourcing, assembly, inspection,
logistics etc. In a CIM system, this planning process should be constrained by the
production costs and by the production equipment and process capability, in order to
generate an optimized plan.
iv.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
v. 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. In CIM,
this requires activities like CNC programming, simulation and computer aided scheduling of
the production activity. This should include online dynamic scheduling and control based on
the real time performance of the equipment and processes to assure continuous production
activity. Often, the need to meet fluctuating market demand requires the manufacturing
system flexible and agile.
vi.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. In CIM system this consists of computer controlled
process machinery such as CNC machine tools, flexible manufacturing systems (FMS),
Computer controlled robots, material handling systems, computer controlled assembly
systems, flexibly automated inspection systems and so on.
vii. 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.
viii. 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.

Computer Integrated Manufacturing (CIM) Page 6

  Development of Computer-Integrated Manufacturing (CIM)

Computer-Integrated Manufacturing (CIM) is an advanced manufacturing approach that

integrates various production processes through computer technology. It enables automation,
data exchange, and efficient coordination between different parts of manufacturing, leading to
increased productivity and reduced costs.

Computer Integrated Manufacturing (CIM) has evolved over time through the integration of
technologies like CAD, CAM, and CNC. CIM's goal is to improve efficiency, quality, and
flexibility in manufacturing.

Early developments

 CAD and CAM

 Numerical Control (NC): Systems using paper tapes for programming were introduced in the
1950s
 Computer Numerical Control (CNC): Systems using microprocessors for more flexible control
of machine tools were introduced in the 1970s and 1980s
 Robots: Introduced to automate tasks like machine loading, materials handling, welding,
painting, and assembly
Current developments

 CIM systems: Integrate computer technology into all phases of the manufacturing process
 Automation: Automated workflows replace manual tasks, leading to shorter lead times, reduced
costs, and better adaptation to customer needs
 Real-time data: CIM gathers relevant, real-time data from the production floor to optimize
efficiency
Benefits of CIM Increased responsiveness, Optimized lead times, Cost reduction, and Increased
output capacity.

To be successful in applying CIM, companies need to have an in-depth understanding of all the
technologies and comprehensive knowledge of all activities in all functional units of an
enterprise.

 AI-driven decision-making for fully autonomous factories.

 5G networks for ultra-fast communication between machines.
 Sustainable manufacturing with energy-efficient and eco-friendly production methods.
 Human-robot collaboration in hybrid work environments.

Computer Integrated Manufacturing (CIM) Page 7

  IBM's concept of CIM
(Computer Integrated Manufacturing) refers to the integration of computer systems and
software to manage and automate the entire manufacturing process, from design to production
and delivery. The goal of CIM is to create a seamless flow of information between all stages of
production, increasing efficiency, reducing errors, and improving overall quality.

 Siemens' concept of CIM (Computer Integrated Manufacturing),

It’s similar to other companies in the industry, focuses on the integration of digital
technologies across the entire manufacturing process, but with a strong emphasis on
digitalization and automation. Siemens promotes a holistic approach to CIM, using cutting-edge
technologies and their vast suite of software tools to create a seamless connection between
product design, manufacturing, and operations management. Siemens' approach is built around
its Industry 4.0 vision, which aims to transform traditional manufacturing into a more connected,
efficient, and flexible system.

Aspects of Siemens CIM Concept:

1. Digital Twin:
o Digital Twin is a core concept in Siemens’ CIM strategy. It involves creating a
virtual representation of the physical product, manufacturing process, and system.
The digital twin allows manufacturers to simulate and test designs and processes
before actual production begins, enhancing efficiency and reducing errors. The
virtual twin can be used not only in the design phase but also throughout the
product lifecycle for monitoring and optimization.

2. PLM (Product Lifecycle Management):

o Siemens integrates PLM software into its CIM concept through its Team center
platform, which provides a comprehensive digital thread that connects all aspects
of product development and manufacturing. This includes managing data and
workflows from design to production and service. PLM ensures that all teams are
working with the most up-to-date data and that changes are tracked and managed
across all stages.

3. Automation:
o Siemens has a strong focus on automation within CIM. Using products like
Siemens S7 (PLC systems), TIA Portal (Totally Integrated Automation), and
SIMATIC (automation systems), Siemens connects different machines,
equipment, and production systems to work cohesively. Automation within CIM
ensures consistent production, improves efficiency, and reduces human errors.

4. MES (Manufacturing Execution Systems):

o Siemens provides SIMATIC IT as its MES solution, which links the planning,
control, and execution levels of the manufacturing process. It provides real-time

Computer Integrated Manufacturing (CIM) Page 8

 data on production status, quality, and inventory, facilitating better decision-
making and adaptive production processes.

5. IoT and Data Analytics:

o Siemens integrates IoT (Internet of Things) and data analytics into the CIM
ecosystem. Through technologies like Mind Sphere, Siemens connects machines
and systems in real-time to capture and analyze data from production. This data-
driven approach allows for predictive maintenance, process optimization, and
efficient energy use. The insights gained from the data can be used to improve
overall production performance.

6. CAD/CAM Integration:
o Siemens emphasizes the integration of Computer-Aided Design (CAD) and
Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM) using tools like NX (Siemens’
CAD/CAM software suite). This integration allows for a smooth transition from
design to manufacturing, reducing design errors and optimizing the manufacturing
process.

7. Additive Manufacturing:
o Siemens embraces Additive Manufacturing (3D printing) as a key element of its
CIM concept, integrating it into both prototyping and production. This technology
offers flexible and efficient manufacturing methods, particularly for complex and
customized parts.

8. Flexible Production Systems:

o With Industry 4.0, Siemens’ CIM concept emphasizes flexibility in production. It
encourages the use of modular, scalable, and adaptable manufacturing
systems, allowing companies to respond quickly to changing market demands and
product variations without large disruptions to the production line.

9. Supply Chain Integration:

o Siemens integrates supply chain management with its CIM concept, ensuring that
materials, inventory, and logistics are well coordinated. This is achieved using
digital platforms like Opcenter, which helps to manage production, quality, and
logistics with an integrated view of the entire supply chain.

Benefits of Siemens' CIM Approach:

1. End-to-End Digitalization: By linking design, production, and operations through a

unified digital system, Siemens ensures better data flow, efficiency, and fewer errors
across the manufacturing process.
2. Improved Product Quality: Real-time monitoring and predictive analytics help catch
issues early, ensuring that only high-quality products are produced.
3. Cost Efficiency: Automation, data-driven decisions, and optimization tools reduce waste,
energy consumption, and downtime.

Computer Integrated Manufacturing (CIM) Page 9

 4. Increased Flexibility: Manufacturers can easily adapt to changes in demand or customer
needs, thanks to flexible, modular systems and agile production processes.
5. Faster Time-to-Market: With digital twins, virtual simulations, and integrated planning,
Siemens’ CIM approach accelerates the product development cycle, allowing companies
to bring products to market faster.

The CIM (Computer Integrated Manufacturing) concept developed by Digital Equipment

Corporation (DEC), a now-defunct company that was once a leader in the computer industry,
focused on automating and integrating the various aspects of manufacturing through advanced
computing and networking technologies. While DEC's concept of CIM was similar to those
proposed by other industry leaders, it placed particular emphasis on distributed computing and
real-time communication between machines, systems, and processes in the manufacturing
environment.

DEC’s CIM approach can be understood in the context of its innovative use of minicomputers,
networking, and software solutions to enhance the efficiency, flexibility, and communication
across all stages of the manufacturing process. Below are key aspects of DEC’s CIM concept:

Aspects of DEC's CIM Concept:

1. Distributed Computing:
o DEC’s CIM approach relied heavily on distributed computing. Rather than
centralizing control of manufacturing processes in a single computer system, DEC
envisioned a decentralized network of interconnected computers. This network
would allow for more flexible, real-time communication between different parts
of the manufacturing system, including machines, production lines, and
management systems.

2. Real-Time Data Acquisition and Monitoring:

o One of the core principles of DEC’s CIM approach was the collection and
processing of real-time data from production systems. By using sensors and
minicomputers at various points of the manufacturing line, DEC enabled real-
time monitoring of machine performance, production status, and other critical
metrics. This data could then be analyzed and used for process optimization,
quality control, and predictive maintenance.

3. Integrated Software Systems:

o DEC developed integrated software solutions for managing different aspects of
manufacturing, such as production scheduling, inventory management, quality
control, and maintenance. These software systems were designed to work
together, exchanging information in real-time to ensure smooth, synchronized
operations across the manufacturing process.
o Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) were a key component, helping to
track and control the flow of materials, resources, and products in real time.

4. Flexibility and Adaptability:

Computer Integrated Manufacturing (CIM) Page 10

 o A notable feature of DEC’s CIM vision was the flexibility of manufacturing
processes. The system allowed manufacturers to respond quickly to changes in
product design, production schedules, or customer demands. The modular nature
of DEC's CIM systems made it easier for companies to adapt to new product lines
or market conditions without major disruptions.

5. Human-Machine Interaction:
o DEC also emphasized the importance of human-machine interaction within the
CIM environment. It promoted systems where operators could easily interact with
machines and systems via user-friendly interfaces, enabling operators to make
real-time adjustments and decisions based on the data and performance metrics
presented by the CIM system.

6. Automation of Routine Tasks:

o A key goal of DEC’s CIM approach was to automate routine and repetitive tasks,
such as inventory management, scheduling, and quality control inspections.
Automation helped reduce human errors, increased productivity, and freed up
workers to focus on higher-level decision-making and problem-solving tasks.

7. Integration with Enterprise Systems:

o DEC’s CIM concept was designed to integrate with broader enterprise
management systems, such as Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems, to
ensure that information flowed seamlessly between the manufacturing floor and
other parts of the business (e.g., finance, procurement, and sales). This integrated
approach helped to ensure that production schedules, material resources, and
customer demand were aligned.

8. Real-Time Communication and Networking:

o DEC, being a pioneer in networking technologies, incorporated real-time
communication into its CIM systems. DEC’s networking solutions allowed
machines and systems on the factory floor to communicate with each other and
with higher-level management systems, ensuring that all parts of the operation
were synchronized and responsive to changes in demand or production schedules.

9. Use of DEC's Minicomputers and VAX Systems:

o DEC leveraged its minicomputers (such as the PDP series) and the more
powerful VAX systems to provide the computational power necessary for CIM.
These systems were ideal for handling large amounts of data, processing it in real-
time, and coordinating various production activities across multiple locations.

10. Support for Manufacturing Automation:

 DEC’s CIM systems also supported automation technologies like robotics and machine
tools. By automating physical manufacturing processes, DEC’s approach helped to
streamline operations, reduce manual labor, and ensure consistent product quality.

Computer Integrated Manufacturing (CIM) Page 11

Benefits of DEC's CIM Approach:

 Increased Efficiency: Automation and real-time data sharing helped to streamline

operations, reduce downtime, and optimize resource usage.
 Improved Product Quality: Continuous monitoring and feedback loops helped identify
quality issues early in the process, reducing defects and ensuring higher standards.
 Flexibility: The distributed nature of DEC's CIM system allowed manufacturers to easily
adapt to changes in demand, production schedules, or product designs.
 Cost Reduction: Automation and integration of various systems reduced the need for
manual interventions, minimized waste, and improved operational efficiency, leading to
reduced production costs.
 Real-Time Decision-Making: With real-time data collection and analysis, manufacturers
could make informed decisions quickly, improving responsiveness to issues or changes in
the market.

Esprit CIM - OSA model

CIM-OSA Architectural Model Objectives for CIM-OSA:

A Reference Architecture is to be provided for the manufacturing industry. From this
Reference Architecture Particular Architectures can be derived which will fulfill the needs of
particular enterprises. For a given enterprise the CIM system implementation is ultimately
described by a Particular Architecture. This Particular Architecture embodies all necessary
knowledge about the enterprise in a form which can be directly processed by Information
Technology.
CIM system implementation is to be based on enterprise objectives and requirements
which are collected in a Particular Requirements Definition Model. From this Particular
Requirements Definition Model a Particular Implementation Description Model is derived. The
latter is the description of an integrated set of Manufacturing and Information Technology
Components necessary for effective realization of the enterprise operations. The CIM system
design process provides for an evolving CIM system implementation and its maintenance.
The CIM system operational support availability of information. This integration
Requirements on CIM-OSA: provides enables system wide enterprise.

Requirements on CIM-OSA: provides enables system wide enterprise these objectives

lead to the identification of a number of requirements to be satisfied by the Reference
Architecture and by the Particular Architecture, its models and their derivations:
The models have to be derived and optimized for a particular enterprise according to a
common reference framework.
The models have to reflect clearly the established enterprise decision making, its
organization, its activities, its business processes, its information interchange and its material
flows, in a form suitable for translation into an actual and process able implementation.

Computer Integrated Manufacturing (CIM) Page 12

 The models have to be amenable to flexible modification, so as to reflect the changing
enterprise environment, constraints and operations, and in particular to be capable of reflecting
system implementations which are built in an evolutionary manner.
The models and their supporting guide the user in the design, operation phases of such
systems manufacturing industries. Guide-lines have to implementation and in a wide range of
The Reference Architecture and its lines have to guide the vendor implementation and marketing
of such components. Supporting guide in the design and system.
Sufficient system support has to be made available to assure overall model and system
consistency.
This design support system has to relate new designs or modification of existing designs
to the existing description of the enterprise CIM system and to provide design choices for new
system components.
The CIM system operational support has to provide the integrating mechanism between
the different enterprise parts

User Design Phases of a Particular Architecture using CIMOSA:

These needs presuppose an architectural design which can be arrived at in three distinct,
but integrated, phases.
1. To support the capture of the enterprise's requirements using a mapping against a
common, neutral, supporting reference framework to achieve a consistent set of requirements
(this process is termed 'instantiation').
2. To organize which they Information this process the captured requirements in a form
in can be realized by a controlled set of Technology applications (we have called 'derivation') .
3. To support the analysis and synthesis of specific aspects (View's) of the enterprise (this
process is called generation) .

The resultant Particular system description must be modular in nature. This modularity is the key
to achieve flexibility and identify standards.

NIST – AMRF (Automated Manufacturing Research Facility) Hierarchical Model

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) developed the Automated
Manufacturing Research Facility (AMRF) as a model for computer-integrated manufacturing
(CIM). The hierarchical model used in AMRF structures manufacturing control into different
levels, making automation more efficient and flexible.

Computer Integrated Manufacturing (CIM) Page 13

Hierarchical Model of AMRF

The AMRF Hierarchical Model is structured into multiple levels, each handling different aspects
of manufacturing. The model ensures modularity, flexibility, and real-time control.

1. Enterprise Level

 Manages business planning, scheduling, and resource allocation.

 Includes Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems.
 Ensures communication with suppliers, customers, and logistics.

2. Facility Level

 Oversees the entire manufacturing plant.

 Controls the flow of materials, orders, and machine workload.
 Optimizes plant-wide operations, integrating Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES).

3. Cell Level

 Manages groups of machines working together in a flexible system.

 Handles coordination between robotic arms, CNC machines, and automated material
handling systems.
 Uses Flexible Manufacturing Systems (FMS) for adaptability.

4. Workstation Level

 Controls individual machines such as CNC machines, robots, and inspection stations.
 Executes specific tasks within a manufacturing cell.
 Communicates with higher levels for task scheduling and reporting.

5. Equipment Level

 The lowest level, dealing with sensors, actuators, and controllers.

 Implements real-time execution of manufacturing processes.
 Provides feedback for monitoring and quality control.

Key Features of the AMRF Hierarchical Model

✔ Modular Structure – Allows expansion or modification at different levels.

✔ Decentralized Control – Distributes decision-making across levels for efficiency.
✔ Real-Time Communication – Uses sensors and IoT for feedback loops.
✔ Scalability – Can integrate with Industry 4.0 technologies like AI and digital twins.

Computer Integrated Manufacturing (CIM) Page 14

Computer Integrated Manufacturing (CIM) Page 15