Beyond intelligent manufacturing: A new generation of flexible intelligent NC machines

New challenges for intelligent reconfigurable manufacturing systems are on the agenda for the next generation of machine tool centres. Zero defect workpieces and just-in-time production are some of the objectives to be reached for better quality and high performance production. Sustainability requires a holistic approach to cover not only flexible intelligent manufacture but also product and services activities. New routes philosophy of possible machine architecture with characteristics such as hybrid processes with in-process inspection and self-healing will be presented with great features as well as challenges related to various aspects of the next generation of intelligent machine tool centres. (c) 2008 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.