Proposal for an expert system to aid decision-making in the design and management of flexible manufacturing systems

Abstract

Purpose: The objective of this article is to introduce a concept for facilitating decision-making processes in the design and management of flexible manufacturing systems. This concept aims to minimize the risk of either overestimating or underestimating the flexibility and efficiency of production potential. Design/methodology/approach: The proposal involves the utilization of a hybrid expert system, incorporating a combination of rules, scenarios, and semantic schemes to construct a comprehensive knowledge base. This system also integrates fuzzy logic, artificial neural networks, and agent systems with expert systems. Findings: The proposed concept of a hybrid expert system allows for the management of flexible manufacturing systems across various levels, including strategic, operational, and technological aspects of production organization and management. Practical implications: The article has broad applications as it is specifically tailored to address the intricacies of flexible manufacturing systems and expert systems for facilitating decision-making processes within the production context. Originality/value: Each management level possesses its distinct characteristics, methods, and tools that can be seamlessly integrated through the use of hybrid expert systems. Category of the paper: Research paper, conceptual paper. Keywords: Expert systems, flexible manufacturing system, Industry 5.0, production management and engineering.