Shop of the 90's: The Automation of Small Machine Shops Using Existing andAffordable Technology

摘要

The Shop of the 90's project has created a model for increasing the productivityand competitiveness of small manufacturing firms through automation technology that is appropriate for small manufacturers. The report addresses the affordability issue by advocating commercially available 'off-the-shelf' PC based hardware and software technology. This type of hardware and software has a shorter training time and corresponding lower training cost. A modular approach consisting of upgrades, retrofits, and add-ons allows the small manufacturer to automate at a rate that is appropriate for a company's budget for purchasing new technology and providing employee training. The report documents, in a chronological and anecdotal format, the Shop of the 90's project's experiences. It also lists federal and state organizations that can provide information to small manufacturers.