A flexible manufacturing system (FMS) is a form of flexible automation in which several machine tools are linked together by a material-handling system, and all aspects of the system are controlled by a central computer. An FMS is distinguished from an automated production line by its ability to process more than one product style simultaneously. At any moment, each machine in the system may be processing a different part type. An FMS can also cope with changes in product mix and production schedule as demand patterns for the different products made on the system change over time. New product styles can be introduced into production with an FMS, so long as they fall within the range of products that the system is designed to process. This kind of system is therefore ideal when demand for the products is low to medium and there are likely to be changes in demand.