In search of the computer-aided craftsman

Abstract

Profound changes in world markets are resulting in conflict between traditional structures of production and new market requirements. The right answers to this challenge are heavily disputed. One option is to replace human work still further by artificially intelligent technology without changing basic structures of production. In contrast to this strategy, alternative production concepts seek to combine the unique human capabilities of perception, evaluation and decision making in unstructured situations with appropriately designed computer systems. Empirical evidence from the use of NC technology indicates that sensual experience and practical knowledge are necessary ingredients rather than disappearing residuals of efficient production. By far their tacit dimension does not allow complete transformation into objectified, scientific knowledge. In the field of metal cutting it is the skilled workers themselves who constitute the primary source of productivity. In order to overcome their traditionally problematic and uncomfortable working situation, shop-floor programming methods have been developed that are adapted to their concrete and graphic mode of thinking and acting. These allow workers to make their own efficient NC programs, thus maintaining their practical competence. This paper illustrates a necessary new perspective in system design: away from developing computer programs for imitating and replacing human expertise and towards designing computers as a useful tool for human experts.