Technology chain optimization: a systematic approach considering the manufacturing history

The optimization of technology chains is usually conducted as a local problem of each individual process step. However, in order to optimize the technology chain in terms of product properties a local optimization is insufficient and a more holistic approach is indispensable. Existing methods, which consider the manufacturing history of a workpiece, are often accompanied by a high level of effort in research. This paper presents a systematic approach to integrate the manufacturing history into the technology chain optimization process going along with a significant reduction of effort compared to existing methods based on simulation and experiments. Resulting from previous methods and models a set of representative variables is identified to describe interactions and dependencies within technology chains. Furthermore, an approach consisting of three steps is developed which allows a visualization as well as an explanation of the cause-and-effect relationships within technology chains. This approach is used to deduce two different optimization strategies for technology chains. The first strategy allows a global optimization by adjusting specified parameters without changing the processes within the technology chain. Whereas the second strategy comprises a redesign of the whole chain.