Abstract
Flexibility is a complex concept, difficult to define. Most of the definitions of flexibility refer to the adaptation of the system in a changing context, which is quite general. We propose to see flexibility as a black box, without trying to define how the system works internally. This external point of view allows most of the parameters, which influence flexibility to be identified. Our definition of flexibility highlights customer satisfaction, changes in demand and in the environment in order to remain competitive. Each of the terms of this definition is studied. We propose a typology of companies in terms of flexibility, and we show why reconfigurable manufacturing systems are often the solution for companies that need to combine flexibility and productivity. We develop the eight characteristics of RMS. Among these eight characteristics, we propose a new one: reconfiguration strategy that enables to choose the best way to adapt the system to changes. Finally, we discuss an approach based on an eight-dimensional Kiviat to classify RMS.
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Capawa Fotsoh, E., Mebarki, N., Castagna, P., Berruet, P. (2020). A Classification for Reconfigurable Manufacturing Systems. In: Benyoucef, L. (eds) Reconfigurable Manufacturing Systems: From Design to Implementation. Springer Series in Advanced Manufacturing. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-28782-5_2
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-28782-5_2
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