An intelligent locator inventory to accommodate mass customization in an Automated Flexible Fixture System

The demand for mass customization is increasing, and while Flexible Manufacturing Systems provide customization, they do not currently meet the requirements of mass customization. The main limitation is in the fixtures that are utilized. They generally do not provide rapid setups and setup changeovers, accommodate a variety of part families and geometries and incorporate Artificial Intelligence in the setup and fixture planning phases. There is therefore a need for a fixture system that meets these requirements if mass customization is to be met. This paper aims to present an Automated Flexible Fixture System that utilizes an intelligent locator inventory to meet the requirements of mass customization.