CIM includes the experimental shop

Integration of computers in the manufacturing process has rightfully emphasized their use in electronically conveying complex product geometry from engineering design and drafting to the design of manufacturing fixtures and part programming. The relative absence of literature and software relating to the use of micro-computers in the Experimental (prototype) Shop suggests that at best, their usage is limited and at worst, not amenable to very small lot size production quantities.

Experience with a trial program suggests the contrary. While the project described in this paper is far from a full implementation, early results suggest that micro-computers can be effectively use to:

1. 1) Improve communications between the designer and the shop.

2. 2) Assist the shop in purchasing, process planning, and control of spare part inventories.

Also included in the paper is an overview of the software as contrasted with conventional high volume production planning and inventory control systems to emphasize the fundamental differences in functional usage. The paper concludes with a discussion of future extensions to provide networking and graphic capabilities that shows promise of improving the feedback loop to Engineering Design and Manufacturing.