| A | B |
|---|
| AGV | Automated Guided Vehicle. A computer-controlled system that uses pallets and other interface equipment to transport work pieces to NC machine tools and other equipment in a flexible manufacturing system. |
| ASRS | Automated Storage/Retrieval System. A system that moves material either vertically or horizontally between a storage compartment and a transfer station or within a process. |
| Automation | The use of technology to ease human labor or extend the mental or physical capabilities of humans. |
| CAD | Computer Aided Design. The use of computers in converting the initial idea for a product into a detailed engineering design. |
| CAM | Computer Aided Manufacturing. The use of computers in converting engineering designs into finished products. |
| CIM | Computer Integrated Manufacturing. A company-wide management philosophy for planning, integration, and implementation of automation. |
| CNC | Computer Numerical Control. A numerical control method in which one computer is linked with one machine tool to perform NC functions. |
| Dependent Variable | A variable whose value depends on the value of another variable. |
| FMS | Flexible Manufacturing System. A flexible group of CNC machine tools that are highly automated and integrated capable of producing a family of parts. |
| Independent Variable | The controlling factor between variables, on which the value of the other variable depends. |
| JIT | Just in Time. A system that eliminates work-in-process (WIP) inventory by scheduling arrival of parts and assemblies for an operation at the time they are needed and not before. |
| Kaizen | Continuous improvement that involves all participants. |
| Lean Manufacturing | The systematic elimination of waste. |
| Manufacturing | A series of interrelated activities and operations that involve product design and the planning, producing, materials control, quality assurance, management, and marketing of that product. |
| Mass Production | A manufacturing process that can include specialized and single-purpose machines to produce a great many identical parts. |
| PLC | Programmable Logic Controller. A solid-state control system that has a user-programmable memory to store instructions. |
| Robotics | The science and technology of robots, their design, manufacture, and application. |
| Six Sigma | A highly structured methodology that incorporates techniques and tools for eliminating defects and variability from a process. To achieve Six Sigma, a process must not produce more than 3.4 defects per million opportunities. |
| WIP | Work-in-Process. Materials or parts that are actually being processed into final products. |
| Workcell | A manufacturing unit consisting of a group of work stations and their interconnecting materials-transport mechanisms. |
