An Analysis of Computer Integrated Manufacturing (CIM) Technology, Benefits, and Strategies for the U.S. Army Materiel Command

Abstract : The purpose of this briefing is to analyze the U.S Army's strategy regarding the promotion, acquisition, development and implementation of Computer Integrated Manufacturing. Computer Integrated Manufacturing (CIM) is the coordinated application of technology to the process of design, manufacturing, distribution and maintenance for a product or group of products. The primary objectives of CIM are to improve service to customers, increase flexibility, boost productivity, enhance product quality and sustain profitable operations. The basic engineering and manufacturing functions of CIM focus on four major themes as defined by the Computer and Automated Systems Association of the Society of Manufacturing Engineers: 1) Factory Automation which encompasses activities such as computer numerical control, flexible manufacturing systems, robots and automated material handling systems; 2) Product and Process Definition which concentrates on concepts such as group technology, Computer Aided Design (CAD), Computer Aided Engineering (CAE) and artificial intelligence; 3) Manufacturing Planning and Control which focuses on processes such as material requirements planning, purchasing, materials management and Just-In-Time (JIT) techniques; and 4) Integrated Systems Support Architecture which is composed of hardware, software, communication and integration elements.