柔性制造系统（FMS）已经成为制造技术的前沿20多年了。任何参与金属切削的制造商都知道FMS相对于传统金属切削技术的优势。然而，FMS进展缓慢，因为大多数公司对投资这样一个系统犹豫不决，因为大量投资可能难以从经济上证明其合理性。本文将概述利用FMS可以实现的好处，并提供一个系统经济合理性的例子。

Flexible manufacturing systems (FMS) have been the leading edge of manufacturing technology for over two decades. Any manufacturer involved in metal cutting is aware of the benefits a FMS offers over conventional metal cutting technologies. However, FMS has made slow progress because most companies are hesitant to invest in such a system because the large investment may be difficult to economically justify. This paper will provide an overview of the benefits that can be realized by utilizing a FMS, plus provide an example of an economic justification of a system.