World survey of CAM

The worldwide state of the art and development trends in CAM are surveyed, emphasizing flexible manufacturing systems (FMS), robotics, computer-aided process planning, and computer-aided scheduling. The use of FMS, NC machine tools, DNC systems, and unmanned and nearly unmanned factories, are discussed as the state of the art in the USA, Japan, Western Europe and Eastern Europe. For the same areas, trends are projected, including the use of graphics and languages in CAM, and metamorphic machine tools. A Delphi-type forecast and its conclusions are presented. A CAM system for manufacture is projected for 1985, the use of robots equalling humans in assembly capability for 1990, and the fifty percent replacement of direct labor in automobile final assembly by programmable automation by 1995. An attempt is made to outline a methodical approach to forecasting the development of CAM over the next 10-15 years. Key issues in CAM proliferation, including financial and social aspects, are addressed.