Workpiece set up or Loading and

unloading station
• prismatic components meant for machining
centers are generally set up on pallets.

• Pallets are standardized to have compatible

mechanical interface with the storage locations,
transport system, pallet changer and the machining
centers.

• The palletization may be done manually or with

the help of a robot.
• Fixtures are used to locate the parts precisely
on the pallets.

CMM in FMS = Post process inspection

Inspection of palletized workpiece

Results compared = History file
Component
Machine
Feedback for necessary action
Corrective action ???
• In process inspection using probes

– Eliminate expensive CMM

– Automatic machine tool compensation to

achieve prescribed tolerances

– Eliminate part move and queue time near CMM.

– Corrective action for dimensional deviations.

– Sacrifices metal cutting time for inspection.

 Workpiece handling system
This system has the functions of
•Timely supply of unmachined workpieces from the
storage to the machining centres.

• Transporting the machined parts from the centres

to the desired locations.

This block generally consists the following modules

•Workpiece setup or loading and unloading station.

• Workpiece store and transport.

 Workpiece holding
• FMS fixture have to accommodate part families
and minimize changeover times.

• Modular fixturing which employs reusable and

standardized interchangeable base plates, sub
plates, tombstone type bases help meet the
objectives of FMS and are finding favour with
FMS users.

• Several workpieces are clamped into tombstone

type of fixtures.
• Mechanical & hydraulic clamping reduce pallet
preparation times further.
 AGV charge
Wash station
area

Queue area Machining

center

Machining
AGV center
guidepath AGV

Coordinate
measuring
machine
AGV
Fixture & tool
build area L/UL L/UL
AGV guidepaths
 First
setup
position
Fourth
setup One part number
position Four sided two or more
tombstone parts are pallet

Second
setup
Third position
setup
position

Conventional pallet part loading schemes