Automation has been employed for many years to provide a multitude of reasonably priced products for the American consumer. However, it has become evident that its real character as a manufacturing systems approach needs to be examined carefully for a better appreciation. In this book the purpose is to examine automation technology in its broadest sense and develop not only an understanding but also present some of the engineering and organization "know-how" by which manufacturing management can more effectively utilize automation to improve pro­ ductivity and combat rising costs in the years ahead. Fundamentally, this book is addressed to manufacturing managers, and the material presented in a manner that will provide the knowledge for assuring success in automating. In addition, it highlights the man­ ufacturing research and long-range planning that will be required for creating the new manufacturing technology so necessary for assuring success in future automation efforts. One of the important facts emphasized in this text is that automation is not merely robotics ar another kind or type of machinery. To effect true productivity improvement requires a fresh look at the entire pro­ duction process or facility-as a completely integrated system. With the developments of the past few years, rapid advances in the technology and the "tools of automation" have brought this imperative goal within the reasonable grasp of manufacturing management in almost every segment of industry. However, to utilize this progress, it is necessary to acquire a working understanding of all facets of automation.