Critical Operational Issues Research Articles

Markov decision processes for integrating life cycle dynamics into fab-level decision making

For a semiconductor manufacturing fabrication facility, we propose a finite-horizon transient Markov decision process (MDP) model that integrates product life cycle dynamics and that will provide decision support on such critical operational issues as when to add additional capacity and when to convert from one type of production to another.

The use of computer graphic simulation in the development of robotic systems

This paper describes the use of computer graphic simulation techniques to resolve critical design and operational issues for robotic systems. Use of this technology will result in greatly improved systems and reduced development costs. The major design issues in developing effective robotic systems are discussed and the use of ROBOSIM, a NASA developed simulation tool, to address these issues is presented. Three representative simulation case studies are reviewed: off-line programming of the robotic welding development cell for the Space Shuttle Main Engine (SSME); the integration of a sensor to control the robot used for removing the Thermal Protection System (TPS) from the Solid Rocket Booster (SRB); and the development of a teleoperator/robot mechanism for the Orbital Maneuvering Vehicle (OMV).