A guide to the design of fuzzy control systems for manufacturing processes

Abstract

While classical control theory has been demonstrated to be highly successful in many manufacturing technology applications, there are shortcomings when applied to processes that require the intuitive skills of a human operator. Fuzzy logic technique can be a significant aid in enabling machine systems to imitate the control stategy of an operator and so achieve an efficient control function. Commencing with the basic principles of fuzzy logic theory, the paper provides a practical guide to the design techniques used to establish fuzzy controller. An example of a welding robot to achieve an irregular weld path profile is used to illustrate the procedure.