Research Planning Grant: Process Planning Using an Integrated Neural Network and Expert System Approach

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This project will explore the application of heterogeneous intelligent software composed of expert systems and artificial neural networks to manufacturing process planning. Process planning is an important component of the manufacturing life cycle where product designs are translated to steps and processes for manufacturing. Process planning is critical to the subsequent quality of the product, and the unit cost during manufacturing. Therefore, it is an important contributor to an organization's ability to compete through the cost to manufacture, utility and performance of its products. The project will focus on developing a complete understanding of process planning and its opportunities for intelligent computing. This includes the many manufacturing operations, how each applies to each product design feature and the correct sequence of operations. An appreciation for the best process/sequence combinations leading to efficiency during the manufacturing phase and cost effectiveness on the line is fundamental for a final project which applies intelligent computing in an effective manner.