The advent of flexible manufacturing cells (FMCs) is the most important manufacturing improvement over the past decade. This practical guide offers an effective,broad-based approach to FMC planning and implementation,enabling plant managers and engineers to maximize FMC's ability to enhance product quality and reduce manufacturing time and inventory. Drawing from their own success in helping over 2,000 manufacturers to install FMCs,this book's leading experts illustrate the economic advantages of FMCs,show how to "sell" FMC to top brass,and outline alternative FMCs to help users develop tailor-made cells. Professionals will discover step by step how to design and install FMCs,upgrade FMCs using support systems,and measure FMC's overall performance. They will also gain insight into future FMC trends,with the aid of case studies that highlight innovative strides in cellular manufacturing.