This paper describes a framework for the concurrent modelling of workpieces and cutting tools (dual flow) and introduces a computer aided tool, the dual-flow emulator, for use in the initial investment phase of high-cost flexible machining cells (FMC) and their subsequent short-term scheduling. This facility enables designers to make decisions based on the economic performance and enhancement of proposed designs. The focus of the work is on machining cells, where an individual machining centre's cost can be in excess of one million pounds, with the tooling being three/four times more expensive than conventional tooling. With these high-cost investments, where there is a small number of expensive machines, it is essential that designers are assured a greater chance of economic success. This makes it necessary to model both the flow and management of the workpieces and cutting tools. A framework for the concurrent modelling of workpieces and cutting tools (dual flow) is introduced and the dual-flow emulator described. This dual-flow emulator can be used to explore the relative merits of alternative operating strategies and, finally, as a short-term scheduling tool as an operational performance aid. An industrial-based study has been undertaken and the economic performance of two strategies is discussed in terms of the overall specification and operational performance.
Real Time Systems Scheduling Tool Development
