Research On The Optimization Of Tool Management In FMS And The Development Of The Experimental System

As the complexity and manufacturing precision of parts being improved constantly, complete machining is being gradually applied and numerical control machine is developing rapidly in the aspects of high-precision, high-speed, high-efficiency and so on. High-flexibility and high-rigidity compact machine shows a strong development momentum and the latest trend of machine composite development has become increasingly clear. 5-axis machining centers are also more and more applied in flexible manufacturing system (FMS) as they are more used to produce small-lot complex part now. All of these indicate that the number and the type of processing tool in flexible manufacturing system will increase accordingly. How to manage and schedule all the tools effectively and efficiently is a key technology in the current study of flexible manufacturing technology.This paper summarizes the present research status of tool scheduling optimization technology in FMS and elaborates the significance of research on tool scheduling optimization theory and the development of related experimental system. Static strategy proposed in this paper based on the method of genetic algorithm can be used to realize tool pre-dispatch before production. And by combining a number of scheduling strategies, dynamic optimization of tool scheduling in the process of production can also be realized. It is effectively proved that the static and dynamic strategy can significantly decrease times of tool exchange and reduce the time waiting for tools, thereby improving the production efficiency and tool utilization in FMS.To verify the tool scheduling optimization theory and meet the teaching and training needs, a tool management experimental system is designed, and the hardware and software design of the tool storing and transporting controller based on embedded technology is completed, which is turned out to be well-functioning, compact and with great reference value to practical system developing.Practical experiments have proved the tool management experimental system can simulate tool storage and transportation activities quite well and play a positive role in verifying tool scheduling optimization theory. And it also provides a good means to carry out teaching and training of relevant technology.Finally, the paper summarizes all the research work and achievement and put forward the further prospects based on the experimental experience.