M.Sc. (Computer Science) / This study comprises an investigation into and a discussion of Artificial Intelligence (AI) techniques and methods which are suitable for the implementation of a computerised intelligent autonomous manufacturing environment. To this end neural networks, fuzzy logic, genetic algorithms and Petri nets are discussed. The purpose is to define a broad framework for the implementation and integration of intelligence in the Computer Integrated Manufacturing (CIM) environment. A number of examples have been used throughout the study in order to illustrate the relevant function or concept. Currently there is a lack of an integrated structured developmental approach towards the implementation of AI techniques in the CIM industry. In this dissertation we examine the relevant topics in some detail before progressing to the development of the Real-time Artificial Intelligence Agent Model (RAIAM) framework. The RAIAM framework establishes an environment suitable for the insertion and application of AI techniques and methods into a computerised CIM system structure. This is accomplished by the establishment of a centralised database and message handling unit, and by the usage of intelligent modular agents. An expert database system (EDS) based on a centralised blackboard design is used as the structural basis for RAIAM. Although it makes use of this centralised database system, it is a largely modular approach as it makes use of agents to communicate and process information and actions.

The continued assimilation of advanced computing and information technologies in the workplace in the midst of rapidly changing socioeconomic conditions has led many corporations to transform their corporate culture and structure. These profound changes are implicating corporate functions such as planning, design, manufacturing, and marketing. A significant form of corporate re-structuring has been in the computer and information technology mediated integration of these functions which is sometimes labeled Computer Integrated Manufacturing (CIM). Fundamental questions are provoked regarding the reshaping of these emerging modes and relations of production. Do these developments represent a departure from traditional Taylorist or Fordist workplace operations and organization? Are these emerging modes of work which generally are interwoven with Japanese inspired quality improvement programs and associated manufacturing methods producing a more human-centered workplace? Do these shifts in corporate re-structuring support the possible unfolding of forms of human-centered workplace democracy? To critically inquire and address the above questions, a case study was conducted involving a large manufacturing firm which has been undergoing a radical re-structuring of all its corporate operations. The case study method involves an analysis of the internal discourse(s) and practice(s) of an emerging manufacturing facility called the Factory of the Future (FOF) in the context of a changing corporate culture mediated by computer and information technologies and changing organizational practices. Many sources of information were appropriated to construct a collage of textual material in order to present FOF's unique genealogy and to provide a detailed description of the emerging phenomenon of CIM. Among these were internal documents, videos, and interviews conducted with factory and office workers. Based on a critical interpretation of the case study findings a number of provisional conclusions were reached and may be summarized as follows: • Certain neo-Taylorist and neo-Fordist modes of production are emerging both in the factory and office as the transformation of the corporation proceeds toward a CIM mode of operation. • More human-centered organizational practices have marked the changing corporate culture although they are at times subject to conflicts and contradictions. • Managerial power has grown in the midst of computer and information mediated systems, even though worker participation and involvement in work related decisions has also been enhanced. / Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies / Graduate

published_or_final_version / Industrial and Manufacturing Systems Engineering / Doctoral / Doctor of Philosophy

published_or_final_version / abstract / Industrial and Manufacturing Systems Engineering / Doctoral / Doctor of Philosophy

published_or_final_version / Industrial and Manufacturing Systems Engineering / Master / Master of Philosophy

This thesis proposes a cost based grouping procedure for Group Technology. The procedure is a two-stage graph partitioning approach to determine machine cells. Costs of work-in-process inventory, machine depreciation, machine setup and material handling are used as a basis for grouping. The procedure begins by selecting economic lot sizes for each part type and converting these values to machine requirements. The first stage assigns parts to machines of a common type. The second stage groups individual machines to cells, with each machine cell having a number of machines between chosen lower and upper limits. An additional check is given to the final groupings to see if adding a machine of any type can result in savings on the intergroup material handling cost. The process may iterate by next obtaining updated setup times and restarting.

No description available.

A research report submitted in fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master’s in Engineering to the Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment, School of Mechanical, Industrial and Aeronautical Engineering, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2018 / The automotive industry is experiencing a major transition with regards to powertrain where the traditional internal combustion engine is being replaced by hybrid or all-electric solutions. As a result of this transition, many powertrain engineering firms, such as Integral Powertrain, are required to adapt or develop tools to improve the quality and time to respond to the rapid increase in new electric motor enquiries. This paper details the development of the foundations of a software tool (AIEED) used to improve the time and quality of response to new motor enquiries. The foundations of the AIEED tool are built into a Microsoft Excel document which contains the necessary logic required to convert customer requirements data into geometrical design data. A series of macros are included in the tool which allow for the automated generation of a first-level computer-aided design (CAD) model of the motor, including the following components; stator, windings, rotor, magnets, housing and cover. The CAD models, which serve to improve the quality of response to new motor enquiries and provide a basis for further detailed development, are generated on the CATIA V5 design platform. In addition, the tool makes use of the CAD model to determine the estimate cost of the unit based on average material costs per unit mass defined in the materials database stored in the tool. It is estimated that the AIEED tool reduces the response time to new motor enquires by 75%. Certain assumptions and limitations have been applied such that the foundations of the tool only include support for the following motor specifications: Surface Permanent Magnet Alternating Current cylindrical radial flux motors (external stator and internal rotor). • The units are designed for 3-phase supply. • The winding configuration is limited to concentrated double layer option. • Parallel tooth, arc-bottom, semi-closed stator slot profiles. • Arc-shaped radially magnetised surface magnet rotor configuration option. A simple data verification filter is applied to minimise the potential for invalid inputs. However, a full validation and verification process is recommended for future work. In addition, it is recommended that the tool be expanded to support additional motor types and specifications as well as package the foundations into a single, easy-to-use utility. / XL2019

Thesis (Ph. D.)--University of Hong Kong, 2006. / Title proper from title frame. Also available in printed format.

Thesis (Ph.D.)--University of Hong Kong, 1998. / Includes bibliographical references. Also available in print.