Use of agents and neural networks for acquisition and preparation of distributed NC information to support NC planning

SPEP-NC information offers new possibilities for object-oriented data management. A strong need for high information content and the increasing object-oriented CAM software requires a new information level for preparation and execution tasks in part manufacturing. This paper describes applications of different intelligent methods especially to support distributed technological data management. The problem of current technological databases will be solved with the help of agent technology and machine learning for distributed information on the shopfloor and in planning departments. The authors introduce a combination of agent-based organization and self-learning of feature-based technological information. The prototype includes three components for coordination, data acquisition and preprocessing of technological information to assist human engineers in planning and manufacturing.