A Knowledge-Based Decision Support System for Micro and Nano Manufacturing Process Chains

In modern production environments, decision support systems for flexible and scalable manufacturing of functional components have become a critical issue for economic success, especially for small and medium enterprises. Knowledge-based modelling of process chains has been effectively applied to the manufacturing of macro-scale products. However, modelling and therefore the process planning of manufacturing for micro scale products with tight tolerances and high accuracy proves to be very challenging. This paper proposes a methodology to support developers work in the field of micro manufacturing technologies. In particular, support for decision making process through workflow technologies as well as an example for managing technological processes based on a capability database is presented. The ontology allows for modelling and storage of technical capabilities, supporting product developers during the initial product design phase as well as the set-up of suitable manufacturing chains by taking into account different views (materials, technologies, tools, equipment) on a production process. This enables a highly flexible production system, allowing for a fast exchange of design variants and implementation of new manufacturing modules and techniques.