An intelligent knowledge-based scheduler for heavy manufacturing

A consortium from Alcan, YARD and the computer science department at the University of Strathclyde are collaborating on an Alvey-funded project on the use of intelligent knowledge-based systems (IKBS) techniques for production scheduling in heavy manufacturing. The main objectives of the project are: to research and develop methodologies for scheduling in heavy manufacturing and similar domains, and to produce an IKBS scheduling system to support production of aluminium plate at Alcan´s Kitts Green plant. The paper describes the approach taken within the project and the status of work at this midway stage. Topics addressed include domain features and relevant systems, requirements for the scheduler, knowledge acquisition and domain knowledge base, and scheduler design