Abstract
Specific features of a machining FMS operation in a complex production environment (a machine shop or an automated factory) are considered. A probabilistic approach to FMS performance estimation, ensuring a steady production rhythm of an automated assembly factory, is suggested. A probabilistic description of FMS performance estimation based on the concept of production potential and its respective probability of achieving the goal value with due account of the reliability of FMS production facilities and various organization factors is given. A complex optimality criterion of FMS production potential in an FA environment is described. A method of machining FMS production tasks planning in terms of time and volume of output is suggested. Application of the suggested method is illustrated by the example of designing a machine-tool automated factory.