Computer Integrated Manufacturing (CIM)

Competency Group: Mechanical Engineering

Type: Software

Description: Computer Integrated Manufacturing, known as CIM, is the phrase used to describe the complete automation of a manufacturing plant, with all processes functioning under computer control with digital information tying them together. Through the integration of computers, manufacturing can be faster and less error-prone. The main advantage of CIM is the ability to create automated manufacturing processes. Typically CIM relies on closed-loop control processes, based on real-time input from sensors. It is also known as flexible design and manufacturing. For example: Automated Canning Factory.

Citation for Description: Rockford Consulting Group. (1999). Computer integrated manufacturing. Retrieved from  http://rockfordconsulting.com/computer-integrated-manufacturing.htm. AND Computer-integrated manufacturing. (2011). Retrieved from Wikipedia, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Computer-integrated_manufacturing                

Advantages: Fast and less error prone than a human production line. Decreases possibility of a manufacturing process  running out of product components.

Limitations: Can be very expensive and requires system operators for repair and maintenance. Can get very complicated.

Regulations: International Organization for Standardization. (2011). ISO/IEC 2382-24:1995. Retrieved from http://www.iso.org/iso/iso_catalogue/catalogue_ics/catalogue_detail_ics.htm?ics1=35&ics2=240&ics3=50&csnumber=7268

Target Audience: Engineering, Production

Relevant to Universal Design: No

Stages and Steps: 7.4, 7.5, 7.6, 7.12, 8.1

Free Resources: Ryan, V. (2008). Computer Integrated Manufacture (CIM). Retrieved from http://www.technologystudent.com/rmprp07/intman1.html

Purchase Resource: Wonderware. (2012). Retrieved from http://global.wonderware.com/EN/Pages/default.aspx

Purchase Resource: International Journal of Computer Integrated Manufacturing. (2012). Retrieved from http://www.tandf.co.uk/journals/tcim