Hierarchical Control in a CIM Environment

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A computer integrated manufacturing (CIM) project utilizes hierarchical computer control in a junior-level laboratory/lecture course environment at the GMI Engineering and Management Institute. The laboratory allows students the opportunity to integrate the knowledge taught separately in the design, manufacturing, and business courses of a CIM environment. Students experiment while learning and integrating five levels of communication hierarchical (facility, shop, cell, station, and equipment) control. The project utilizes a SUN SPARCstation-2 networked to four SUN IPX SPARCstations which in turn are connected each to a PUMA 260 robot and an DENFORD NC machine. This equipment and a closed loop conveyor system for material handling and a protective light fence - for safety - are located in the existing CIM Laboratory. While the laboratory is central to the GMI CIM course, Robotics and NC Systems lecture and laboratory courses also benefit from it. Experiences from the project will be reported in professional and educational journal.