Abstract: A processing system (10) includes a mass flow controller (22) operating in response to a plurality of control signals, and a data processor system (40). Data processor system (40) collects and stores data characterizing the plurality of control signals from the mass flow controller (22). Features are extracted from the data which characterizes failure modes of the mass flow controller (22), such as miscalibration and malfunction. Data processor system (40) combines there features represented by membership functions using fuzzy rules to diagnosis anomalous operation of the mass flow controller (22). If the mass flow controller 22 is miscalibrated, the data processor system 40 automatically recalibrates it by the rate-of-nie calibration procedure. In case of malfunction, a warning is raised to the operator. Processing system (10) employs self-learning techniques to initialize and refine the knowledge base.

Abstract: A system for predicting the life of a cutting tool in an automated metal cutting machine, comprises a plurality of sensors for measuring physical data relating to a cutting operation of said machine, and a computer connected to these sensors. The computer comprises a feature extractor for transforming the physical data into feature values, a tool life predictor for arriving at a prediction of the life of the cutting tool.