Summary

This volume focuses on specific problem areas in trying to apply artificial intelligence techniques to the design of complex machining. Topics include: Interfaces between CAD and CAP based on AI-methods, such as feature definition, recognition of features and feature generation, generation of operational planes based on product and process information, and machining and process knowledge feedback to design; Innovations in manufacturing equipment, such as tooling, new generation of machining cells and control units, tool monitoring and machine diagnosis; Modelling and decision support, including decision making for simultaneous engineering and under uncertainty conditions, multi-criteria problems, object and status identification, and optimization, branch and bound; and Intelligent modelling environment, including knowledge acquisition and representation, shells, and expert systems in practice. This volume is particularly appropriate for engineers working in the machine tool and manufacturing industry.