Achieving e-Manufacturing: multihead control and web technology for the implementation of a manufacturing execution system

Intelligent Manufacturing Systems requires advanced and efficient manufacturing technologies, management and procedures in order to achieve value creation in global markets. E-Manufacturing is the set of information technologies that allows companies to achieve on demand manufacturing through the integration of e-business applications. Cornerstone of this concept are Demand Flow Technology, Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) and Digital Operational Method Sheets (OMS) which are vital to control shop floor operations where there is a need to balance manual and automated operations. Specially, Mexican companies face large diversity of products and multiple production lines, with high turnaround rotation of the workers. A low cost solution that integrates Demand Flow Technology, MES with Digital OMS is described, the system has been developed using LINUX servers, Multi-head control technology (multiple monitors to a single server) and a WEB based environment. This technological solution offers an affordable, stable, and high performance solution to transform the production into a more balanced system with shorter and faster cycles allowing a company to achieve e-Manufacturing. Received: February 2005/Accepted: January 2006     

A graph-based approach for rule integrity and maintainability in expert system maintenance

Just as conventional software systems have maintenance costs far exceeding development costs, so too do rule-based expert systems. They are frequently developed by an incremental and iterative method, where knowledge and decision rules are extracted and added to the system in a piecemeal manner throughout system evolution. Thus, ensuring the correctness and consistency of the rule base (RB) becomes an important, though challenging task. However, most research work in expert systems has focused on building and validating rule bases, leaving the maintenance issue unexplored. We propose a graph-based approach, called the object classification model (OCM), as a methodology for RB maintenance. An experiment was conducted to compare the OCM with traditional RB maintenance methods. The results show that the OCM helps knowledge engineers retain rule-base integrity and, thus, increase rule-base maintainability.     

基于多Agent的可重构制造系统集成模型

应用控制、管理和维护一体化的自动化技术,建立了基于多Agent的可重构制造系统RMS（Reconfigurable Manufacturing System）集成模型。该模型集成了基于多Agent 的RMS重构模型、控制模型和故障诊断模型,将RMS的控制、管理和维护联系起来,并给出了该模型的UML（Unified Modeling Langurage）活动图,最后举例验证了模型的可行性。     

Using a simulation model for knowledge elicitation and knowledge management

The work reported in this paper is part of a project simulating maintenance operations in an automotive engine production facility. The decisions made by the people in charge of these operations form a crucial element of this simulation. Eliciting this knowledge is problematic. One approach is to use the simulation model as part of the knowledge elicitation process.This paper reports on the experience so far with using a simulation model to support knowledge management in this way. Issues are discussed regarding the data available, the use of the model, and the elicitation process itself.     

A multi-agent approach to process planning and fabrication in distributed manufacturing

In the paper a multi-agent approach to the development of a distributed manufacturing architecture is presented. An essential building block introduced here is the virtual work system (VWS) which represents a manufacturing work system in the information space. The VWS is structured as an autonomous agent and is a constituent entity of an agent network. In the network dynamic clusters of cooperating agents are solving manufacturing tasks. A machining work system and its VWS is demonstrated in a case study. Its role in the agent communication network is discussed in a process planning and fabrication domain.     

Automatic construction and optimization of knowledge mesh for self-reconfiguration of knowledgeable manufacturing system

This paper deals with an approach to the automatic construction and optimization of the knowledge mesh (KM) based on the user’s function requirements. Once a KM multiple set operation expression is obtained, a new KM can be inferred from the expression by the developed KM-based inference engine and transformed into its corresponding KMS (knowledgeable manufacturing system) software automatically by the developed automatic program construction software so as to realize the self-reconfiguration of the KMS. Thus, the automatic construction and optimization of a KM multiple set operation expression is equivalent to the automatic construction and optimization of its corresponding KM and KMS software. To explore the automatic construction and optimization of the new KM by the user’s function requirements, an automatic construction procedure of a KM aiming at the user’s maximum function-satisfaction is proposed. Firstly, the fuzzy function-satisfaction degree relationships of the users’ requirements for the KM functions are defined, and so are the multiple fuzzy function-satisfaction degrees of the relationships. Secondly, operations (union, intersection and minus) on both fuzzy and multiple fuzzy function-satisfaction degrees are proposed and clarified, along with the proof that there exists a one-to-one mapping between the KM multiple set operation expression and the KM-function-satisfaction degree expression. Then, the optimization model of the KM multiple set operation expression is constructed and proved to be very NP-hard. And finally, the KM multiple set operation expression is optimized by the hybrid genetic-tabu algorithm, with the steps of the KM’s automatic construction presented in detail as well. Based upon the above, the KM’s automatic construction and optimization are illustrated by an actual KM example which corresponds to the management information system (MIS) software used in a vehicle body plant. The proposed approach proves to be very effective.     

A knowledge extraction and representation system for narrative analysis in the construction industry

Many researchers advocate that the real-world narratives shared by experts or knowledge workers are helpful in teaching and educating novices to learn new knowledge and skills. Narrative analysis is a useful method for experts to understand narratives. However, it does not produce any clear or explicit layouts. This is not easy for a new learner without prior knowledge to glean the right messages from narratives within a short time. In this paper, a narrative knowledge extraction and representation system (NKERS) is presented to extract and represent narrative knowledge in an effective manner. The NKERS is composed of a narrative knowledge element extraction algorithm, a narrative knowledge representation method and a narrative knowledge database. A prototype system has been built and trial implemented in the construction industry. The results show that the domain experts agree that the narrative maps generated by the NKERS can effectively represent narrative elements and flows. Three-quarters of respondents expressed that they will use the produced narrative maps in their training courses to facilitate students’ learning.     

基于Petri网的柔性制造系统调度控制模型

给出了自顶向下构造柔性制造系统(FMS)Petri网模型的方法,提出了随机创建指定数目满足指定条件的测试模型的算法,并给出程序仿真运行的演算规则。在此基础上实现了基于Petri网FMS分析与调度仿真软件平台,该平台可配置性强,容易维护,降低了柔性制造系统方针研究的复杂性。最后给出了该模型实现的模块结构。     

Estimation of aircraft component production cost using knowledge based engineering techniques

A comprehensive method is presented to estimate aircraft component production costs using Knowledge Based Engineering (KBE) techniques. A suite of parametrical cost estimation blocks are treated as Cost Primitives (CPs), which contain attributes such as cost types, cost driving parameters, and cost estimation relationships. A CP is associated with a parameterized geometry and a set of specific design parameters including part/assembly types, materials and production methods. Production cost is estimated by aggregating the cost of different CPs within a tree structure integrating both product breakdown and cost breakdown structures. The cost analysis tool is integrated into a KBE application by building Capability Modules (CMs), which provide manufacturable geometric representations for cost estimation and can be used to summarize output reports for further optimization. Case studies concerning stiffened panels are carried out, verifying the accuracy of the cost estimation method and illustrating the applicability of this method together with the integrated KBE application for various aircraft components. The main contribution of this research is automating the cost integration in the design process to improve the fidelity, repeatability and traceability of cost analysis.     

制造资源共享技术研究与实现

为了实现制造企业间的制造资源共享,提出了制造资源共享模型,在此基础上,分析了集中式、分布式及集中分布式制造资源共享体系结构,提出了以网络化制造平台、重点城市制造业信息化ASP平台和企业制造资源共享管理系统为主体的三级制造资源共享模式,开发了制造资源共享系统,介绍了该系统在四川省制造业信息化工程中的应用。     

ICT-supported knowledge representation for development of routines in industry

Organizational Learning (OL) is important for a firm’s productivity growth. According to some literatures, information and communication technology do not support organizational learning and therefore not enhanced productivity. This research however has demonstrated that in the case of manufacturing companies some computer-based systems representing organizational knowledge—knowledge management systems (KMS) do support organizational learning. For OL to take place through KMS, our findings suggest that a deliberate organizational learning structure must be in place within the organization. This article demonstrates how knowledge management systems deliberately developed and implemented by management, can support the development of operating routines for manufacturing industries. KMS, if deliberately implemented for the purpose of empowering employee participation, may be a supporting mechanism for process and product improvement and innovation in manufacturing organizations. Such a structure may results, as our case demonstrates, in a dynamic and iterative employee—management knowledge development process resulting in productivity enhancement.     

面向新产品开发知识联盟的知识管理系统及其应用研究*

知识联盟已经开始取代产品联盟成为新的战略联盟形式。知识管理系统有利于新产品开发知识联盟中的知识的共享、利用和扩散。本文在已有知识管理系统模型研究成果的基础上,构建了面向新产品开发知识联盟的知识管理整体框架,该框架包括决策层、流程层和系统层等三个层次,具有内容、协作、技能和定位等四个核心功能。接着提出了面向新产品开发知识联盟的知识管理系统功能结构的概念模型。最后讨论了知识管理系统在新产品开发知识联盟中的实施方法和应用策略。该系统为分散异地的联盟成员之间的知识交流和共享提供了有力的支持。     

Intelligent environmental management for SMEs in manufacturing

Currently environmental management is at the forefront of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), especially in certain sectors where its presence is mandatory in order to operate in business. Although SMEs in certain sectors are catching up on their larger counterparts in reducing their environmental impacts, which are mainly due to supply chain demands, statistics clearly show that the majority of manufacturing SMEs are not incorporating formal environmental management system (EMS) into their businesses. The treatment of SMEs as one homogenous group by research has led to a lack of providing real strategies and tools that SMEs can implement and use. Current strategies are fragmented and seen as piecemeal, requiring adaptation and application to a particular sector by SMEs. SMEs do not have the resources required to research all environmental aspects of their businesses, which is a fundamental part of an EMS. Irish EMS support initiatives have but provided grant assistance in contributing towards the fees of external environmental consultants. As a result the majority of SMEs must rely on the help and assistance of external environmental consultants to assist them in taking account of their environmental impacts. Recent research obtained data on the current practices and experiences of Irish SMEs in areas of manufacturing and environmental management. Results of which, compares with previous research carried out in other European countries, however their significance and weightings differ considerably. Responses obtained regarding waste minimisation, recycling and reuse were positive, however, Irish manufacturing SMEs are falling short of initiating formal environmental management systems and front of pipe technologies. The use of information technology in assisting SMEs manage their environmental impacts holds much potential in providing a complete holistic environmental information management system (EIMS), which is already implemented in larger companies. Initial research has identified and developed proven strategies, solutions and tools from ISO 14001 certified Engineering SMEs, which will be used to form an initial base for an EIMS.     

Toward a real-world knowledge medium: Building a guidance system for exhibition tours

We propose a notion of a real-world knowledge medium by presenting our ongoing project to build a guidance system for exhibition tours. In order to realize a knowledge medium usable in the real world, we focus on the context-awareness of users and their environments. Our system is a personal mobile assistant that provides visitors touring exhibitions with information based on their spatial/temporal locations and individual interests. We also describe an application of knowledge sharing used in the actual exhibition spaces. Yasuyuki Sumi, Ph.D.: He has been a researcher at ATR Media Integration & Communications Research Laboratories since 1995. His research interests include knowledge-based systems, creativity supporting systems, and their applications for facilitating human collaboration. He received his B. Eng. degree from Waseda University in 1990, and M. Eng. and D. Eng. degrees in information engineering from the University of Tokyo in 1992 and 1995, respectively. He is a member of Institutes of Electronics, Information and Communication Engineers (IEICE) of Japan, the Information Processing Society of Japan (IPSJ), the Japanese Society for Artificial Intelligence (JSAI), and American Association for Artificial Intelligence (AAAI). Kenji Mase, Ph.D.: He received the B.S. degree in Electrical Engineering and the M.S. and Ph.D. degrees in Information Engineering from Nagoya University in 1979, 1981 and 1992 respectively. He has been with ATR (Advanced Telecommunications Research Institute) Media Integration & Communications Research Laboratories since 1995 and is currently the head of Department 2. He joined the Nippon Telegraph and Telephone Corporation (NTT) in 1981 and had been with the NTT Human Interface Laboratories. He was a visiting researcher at the Media Laboratory, MIT in 1988–1989. His research interests include image sequence processing of human actions, computer graphics, computer vision, artificial intelligence and their applications for computer-aided communications and human-machine interfaces. He is a member of the Information Processing Society of Japan (IPSJ), Institutes of Electronics, Information and Communication Engineers (IEICE) of Japan and IEEE Computer Society.     

一种选择制造业信息系统应用的决策模型

给出一种选择制造业信息系统（IS）应用的决策模型，该模型基于系统的关联性原理，即各种IS应用之间相互关联有机结合而产生协同效应，使得总体功能大于各应用功能之和，利用层次分析法（AHP）对IS应用进行初始排序，建立处理协同效应与资金分配的数学模型，通过模型求解确定应加以引进的IS应用集合，并确定它们的实施顺序，给出一个分析实例来说明决策模型的使用方法。     

OPC技术在智能建筑控制系统接口研究与设计

对智能建筑的控制网络结构进行研究,给出了采用OPC技术实现系统集成的方案,对OPC服务器的开发进行研究,最后以作者参与的智能大厦系统案例,利用OPC技术通过开发独立OPC服务器将各子系统纳入建筑智能化集成管理平台,达到了系统集成的目的。     

The general idea and usage of manufacturing knowledge data-contained differences of production culture

Activities of product design and manufacturing are carried out on a worldwide scale. Operations like outsourcing and fabless manufacturing occur frequently in both design and manufacturing processes to stimulate outbreaks of the abovementioned phenomena. In this situation, manufacturing knowledge data, that have been collected and used only by the same enterprise in the same place and within the same ethnic group up to now, are not sufficient or precise enough for making a plan of ongoing manufacturing. This paper tries to suggest an example of manufacturing knowledge data containing an element of production culture and to estimate a risk of manufacturing trouble that could happen between each production culture.     

基于多Agent的I-MES在烟草企业中的实现

本文以面向敏捷企业的智能制造执行系统(I-MES)为研究对象,采用多Agent技术作为系统的实现形式,对系统的多Agent组织结构、系统中多Agent间的通信和协作机制以及多Agent的基于事件和周期的动态调度策略等理论问题和关键技术进行了研究,针对可集成制造执行系统中最常见的资源冲突问题,提出了一种基于多Agent合作的冲突消解模型;在此基础上针对敏捷环境下传统的制造执行系统的不足,以烟草企业这类流程性工艺企业为背景,基于多代理技术,构建了一个基于多代理具有开放性、集成性、动态性、敏捷性和可互操作的敏捷制造智能执行系统,     

A collaborative system for capturing and reusing in-context design knowledge with an integrated representation model

Current research on design knowledge capture and reuse has predominantly focused on either the codification view of knowledge or the personalisation view of knowledge, resulting in a failure to address designers’ knowledge needs caused by a lack of context of information and insufficient computational support. Precisely motivated by this gap, this work aims to address the integration of these two views into a complete, contextual and trustworthy knowledge management scheme enabled by the emerging collaborative technologies. Specifically, a knowledge model is developed to represent an integrated knowledge space, which can combine geometric model, knowledge-based analysis codes and problem-solving strategies and processes. On this basis, a smart collaborative system is also designed and developed to streamline the design process as well as to facilitate knowledge capture, retrieval and reuse as users with different roles are working on various tasks within this process. An engineering case study is undertaken to demonstrate the idea of collaborative knowledge creation and sharing and evaluate the effectiveness of the knowledge representation model and the collaborative technologies employed. As evidenced in the development and evaluation, the methods proposed are effective for capturing an integrated knowledge space and the collaborative knowledge management system not only facilitates problem-solving using knowledge-based analysis but also supplies in-context tacit knowledge captured from the communications between users throughout the design process.     

Using a hybrid rule-based approach in developing an intelligent tutoring system with knowledge acquisition and update capabilities

In this paper, we present the architecture and describe the functionality of an Intelligent Tutoring System (ITS), which uses an expert system to make decisions during the teaching process. The expert system uses neurules for knowledge representation of the pedagogical knowledge. Neurules are a type of hybrid rules integrating symbolic rules with neurocomputing. The expert system consists of three components: the user modelling unit, the pedagogical unit and the inference system. The pedagogical knowledge is distributed in a number of neurule bases within the user modelling and the pedagogical unit. Another important component of the ITS, for both its development and maintenance, is its knowledge management unit, which provides knowledge acquisition and knowledge update capabilities to the system, that is, offers expert knowledge authoring capabilities to the system.