Abstract: A system and method for evaluating the use of a welding process for welding a weld joint. The method comprises providing a user with requests for data to enable a processor-based system to establish various attributes of welding a specific weld joint using a specific welding process. The various attributes may include the cost of welding the weld joint using the welding process. The various attributes may include the cycle time for welding the weld joint using the welding process. The system comprises a program operable to direct the processor-based system to request data from a user and to process the requested data received from the user to enable a processor-based system to establish various attributes of welding a specific weld joint using a specific welding process.

Abstract: A system and method for implementing an indirect controller for a plant. A plant can be provided with both a direct controller and an indirect controller with a system model or a committee of system models. When the system model has sufficient integrity to satisfy the plant requirements, i.e., when the system model has been sufficiently trained, the indirect controller with the system model is automatically enabled to replace the direct controller. When the performance falls, the direct controller can automatically assume operation of the plant, preferably maintaining operation in a control region suitable for generating additional training data for the system model. Alternatively, the system model incorporates a committee of models. Various types of sources for errors in the committee of models can be detected and used to implement strategies to improve the quality of the committee.

Abstract: A system for finding a solution to a constrained optimization problem is disclosed. The system uses a mathematical formulation describing the constrained optimization problem. A transformer builds a specific function using the mathematical formulation, variables; an objective function; at least one constraint; a class of transformation functions with a predefined set of properties; and Lagrange multipliers. The specific function may include a nonlinear resealing part; and an augmented Lagrangian part. An iterative solver uses the specific function, and Lagrange multipliers to generate a solution.

Abstract: A system and method for implementing an indirect controller for a plant. A plant can be provided with both a direct controller and an indirect controller with a system model or a committee of system models. When the system model has sufficient integrity to satisfy the plant requirements, i.e., when the system model has been sufficiently trained, the indirect controller with the system model is automatically enabled to replace the direct controller. When the performance falls, the direct controller can automatically assume operation of the plant, preferably maintaining operation in a control region suitable for generating additional training data for the system model. Alternatively, the system model incorporates a committee of models. Various types of sources for errors in the committee of models can be detected and used to implement strategies to improve the quality of the committee.

Abstract: A generic algorithm for simulating communications software in the network environment, based on the model of plural Abstract State Machines (ASMs) is discussed. Other properties and behaviors can supplement the generic case, for example, network topology, delaying behaviors, message transport reliability, and message priority. Plural executing agents, each a sequential abstract state machine, are combined to simulate the behavior of a dynamic network environment. Agent and message behavior is altered based on the proposed or selected network under simulation. The desired behaviors and constraints are coded, compiled, and executed using an executable abstract state machine language.

Abstract: A computer-implemented method and a storage medium adapted to identify potential causes of lithography process failure or drift is provided.

Abstract: A method and structure for automatically producing bridging inferences that join two related input sentences, by applying a lexicon and ontology data structure to a first input sentence to produce first input tagged sentences, applying the lexicon and ontology data structure to a second input sentence to produce second input tagged sentences, matching each first input tagged sentence to first rules, generating first inferred tagged sentences from the first rules, matching the first inferred tagged sentences to second rules, generating second inferred tagged sentences from the second rules, matching the second inferred tagged sentences to third rules, generating third inferred tagged sentences from the third rules, and so on, until a final inferred tagged sentence matches any second input tagged sentence.

Abstract: A method for stabilizing machine processes in which the machines are regulated by a machine regulation matrix selected from a plurality of machine regulation matrixes using a detected machine sensor value, set-point values of the machines being stored in each machine regulation matrix. A process is optimized according to a predefined criterion by also using some of the machine sensor values such that a machine regulation matrix which is optimal according to the process optimization is determined from the plurality of machine regulation matrixes and is subsequently used for regulating the machines.

Abstract: A system is disclosed that generates a data source representation using at least one data source. The system includes a set of services that synchronize the data source representation with the data source, or sources, from which the data source representation is generated. The system also includes a set of services that operate on a data source representation to access and manage information stored in a data source, or sources, from which the data source representation is generated.

Abstract: An extended partial least squares (EPLS) approach for the condition monitoring of industrial processes is described. This EPLS approach provides two statistical monitoring charts to detect abnormal process behaviour as well as contribution charts to diagnose this behaviour. A theoretical analysis of the EPLS monitoring charts is provided, together with two application studies to show that the EPLS approach is either more sensitive or provides easier interpretation than conventional PLS.

Abstract: Disclosed is apparatus for controlling devices comprising a data structure representing devices to be controlled; means for controlling the state of the device controller; means for dynamically determining the current sub-state within a state of the device controller; means for controlling the physical state of a controlled device; and a rules database having rules to be executed by the apparatus, the rules database having rules corresponding to a plurality of states and sub-states of said device controller.

Abstract: When the automatic controls of a number of small automata are synthesized to form large automata, the latter are often difficult to manipulate and for the most part cannot be represented graphically. In order to maintain the applicability of incremental verification techniques, the larger automata are reduced, in accordance with the invention. This is done by modeling the automata in a discrete event system DES and by eliminating from the DES all redundant state transitions, disallowed states, and unimportant selfloops. The novel method is most prominently applicable in control programs and distributed control system controllers.

Abstract: A system for monitoring an industrial process and taking action based on the results of process monitoring. Actions taken may include process control, paging, voicemail, and input for e-enterprise systems. The system includes an input module for receiving a plurality of parameters from a process for manufacture of a substance or object. The system also includes a library module. The library module includes a plurality of computer aided processes. Any one of the computer aided processes is capable of using each of the plurality of parameters to compare at least two of the plurality of parameters against a training set of parameters. The training set of parameters is generally predetermined. The computer aided process is also capable of determining if the at least two of the plurality of parameters are within a predetermined range of the training set of parameters. Additionally, the system includes an output module for outputting a result based upon the training set and the plurality of parameters.

Abstract: A method for forecasting batch end conditions through their depiction as a multi-dimensional regions of uncertainty is disclosed. A visualization of the current condition of a continuous process and visualization of the simulated effect of user control moves are generated for a user. Volume visualization tools for viewing and querying intersecting solids in 3-dimensional space are utilized to perform the process visualization. Interactive tools for slicing multi-dimensional (>3) regions and drawing superimposed projections in 3-D space are provided. Additionally, graphical manipulation of the views of process conditions is accomplished by changing the hypothetical future values of contributing variables online in order to provide users the ability to simulate the effect of proposed control actions.

Abstract: A computer-implemented method for analyzing problem statements. The method includes focusing the problem statement into an operation definition and then assigning a level indicator to the operation definition. The method further includes analyzing the problem statement based on the operational definition and the level indicator in a cost and time effective manner and without the need for an expert to customize an analysis schedule for each problem.

Abstract: A system and method for product configuration represents a product using a configuration model having numerical clauses. Features of the product are associated with literals in the numerical clauses. The numerical clauses may specify a number of literals to determine whether the numerical clause is satisfied, satisfiable, or unsatisfiable. Numerical clauses represent constraints that govern the configuration of the product. Resolving numerical clauses and user choices involves one or more inference procedures. In one embodiment, unit clauses represent user choices, and a configuration engine asserts the unit clause and performs numerical unit resolution between the unit clause and all numerical clauses containing the complement (generally a negation) of the unit clause. Complementary literals are eliminated from the current state of the configuration model.

Abstract: An adaptive process controller drives a process variable to be substantially equivalent to a set point and adapts the controller gain, the controller reset, and/or the controller rate, based on model free adaptation. The adaptive controller combines a controller gain computed from an oscillation index with a controller gain computed from a steady state estimate and that adapts the controller reset/rate by forcing the ratio of two of the controller proportional, integral or derivative terms to be equal to a predetermined value.

Abstract: A semiconductor fabrication system, method and medium are disclosed. The system includes a semiconductor fabrication tool and a software application, in communication with the semiconductor fabrication tool. The semiconductor fabrication tool includes a chamber configured to perform at least one process on a semiconductor wafer. The software application is configured to determine specified qualities of the first chamber in performing the at least one process. The specified qualities are directed to at least one of: a processing time required to perform the at least one process, a rate of producing defective output products of the at least one process, a uniformity of output products of the at least one process, and a capability index of the at least one process.

Abstract: A method for controlling an industrial process. The method includes outputting a plurality of parameters from a process for manufacture of a substance. The method also uses each of the plurality of parameters in a computer aided process, which compares at least two of the plurality of parameters against a training set of parameters. The training set of parameters is generally predetermined. A step of determining if the at least two of the plurality of parameters are within a predetermined range of the training set of parameters also is included. Additionally, the method includes outputting a result based upon the determining step.

Abstract: A system for monitoring an industrial process and taking action based on the results of process monitoring. Actions taken may include process control, paging, voicemail, and input for e-enterprise systems. The system includes an input module for receiving a plurality of parameters from a process for manufacture of a substance or object. The system also includes a library module. The library module includes a plurality of computer aided processes. Any one of the computer aided processes is capable of using each of the plurality of parameters to compare at least two of the plurality of parameters against a training set of parameters. The training set of parameters is generally predetermined. The computer aided process is also capable of determining if the at least two of the plurality of parameters are within a predetermined range of the training set of parameters. Additionally, the system includes an output module for outputting a result based upon the training set and the plurality of parameters.

Abstract: A method and system for performing trade-off studies using multi-parameter choice is disclosed. Candidates, each having one or more criteria associated therewith, are entered into the system via an input interface such as a keyboard. In addition, test rationale may be entered and associated with candidates and criteria to facilitate human comprehension of test data and results. Criteria are weighted using pair-wise comparisons to minimize errors introduced by the judgment of test engineers. Then candidates are evaluated using pair-wise comparison techniques. Sensitivity checks are performed on evaluated criteria. Processed candidates and criteria are then made available to a system operator in formats that are selectable by the operator.

Abstract: Control apparatus for a horizontal boring tool is described which drives a boring lance via boring rods. The tool includes an input interface for receiving actual values of controlled variables of the horizontal boring tool, and an output unit for issuing control signals for controlling the horizontal boring tool. Between the input interface and the output unit is provided a fuzzy control unit which determines the control signals for activation of the horizontal boring tool from the actual values of the controlled variables and the desired values for the controlled variables by fuzzy logic while taking into account heuristic process values. The control apparatus permits automatic operation of the horizontal boring tool with good course steering and high precision.

Abstract: An optimization system is provided utilizing a Bayesian neural network calculation of a derivative wherein an output is optimized with respect to an input utilizing a stochastical method that averages over many regression models. This is done such that constraints from first principal models are incorporated in terms of prior art distributions.

Abstract: An automatic operation system provides a CPU to detect and record a status of operation for the operated mechanism. As soon as a response is to be output for allowing the operated mechanism to perform a operation, the CPU figures out corresponding responses by way of a statistic analysis based on past record of operation status as a reference for the operator. Thus, an operation is simplified or a response is output automatically so as to allow the operated mechanism processing itself.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for color matching are provided, in which paint recipe neural networks are utilized. The color of a standard is expressed as color values. The neural network includes an input layer having nodes for receiving input data related to paint bases. Weighted connections connect to the nodes of the input layer and have coefficients for weighting the input data. An output layer having nodes are either directly or indirectly connected to the weighted connections and generates output data related to color values. The data to the input layer and the data from the output layer are interrelated through the neural network's nonlinear relationship. The paint color matching neural network can be used for, but not limited to, color formula correction, matching from scratch, effect pigment identification, selection of targets for color tools, searching existing formulas for the closest match, identification of formula mistakes, development of color tolerances and enhancing conversion routines.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for efficient implementation and evaluation of state machines and programmable finite state automata is described. In one embodiment, a state machine architecture comprises a plurality of node elements, wherein each of the plurality of node elements represents a node of a control flow graph. The state machine architecture also comprises a plurality of interconnections to connect node elements, a plurality of state transition connectivity control logic to enable and disable connections within the plurality of interconnections to form the control flow graph with the plurality of node elements, and a plurality of state transition evaluation logic coupled to the interconnections and operable to evaluate input data against criteria, the plurality of state transition evaluation logic to control one or more state transitions between node elements in the control flow graph.

Abstract: Disclosed is apparatus for controlling devices comprising a data structure representing devices to be controlled; means for controlling the state of the device controller; means for dynamically determining the current sub-state within a state of the device controller; means for controlling the physical state of a controlled device; and a rules database having rules to be executed by the apparatus, the rules database having rules corresponding to a plurality of states and sub-states of said device controller.

Abstract: This invention describes a method to verify non-looping properties of programs implemented as rule-based expert systems. Our method detects conditions under which the expert system enters erroneous infinite program loops, which lead to non-terminating or oscillating computations, or otherwise proves the absence of such conditions. Our automatic procedure also gives advice on how to correct these errors. The expert systems considered consist of condition-action rules (IF-THEN-statements), where the conditions are logical expressions (formulas of a propositional finite domain logic), and the actions modify the value of a single variable which in turn can be part of other logical expressions. There may be additional (external) variables not controlled by the expert system, and each rule may have an associated evaluation priority.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a system for managing business knowledge expressed as statements, preferably sentences using a vocabulary, where such statements may be automated by the generation of programming language source code or computer program instructions. As such, the present invention also manages software design specifications that define, describe, or constrain the programming code it generates or programs with which it or the code it generates is to integrate. All information managed within the present invention is maintained within a relational database that is encapsulated within an object-oriented model. Each object in this model is subject to version control and administration using permissions. Each user of the system is an object and belongs to one or more groups. Users and groups may be granted privileges. Objects may be created, examined, used, modified, deleted, or otherwise operated upon only if corresponding permission or privilege has been granted.

Abstract: A miniature mobile robot provides a relatively inexpensive mobile robot. A mobile robot for searching an area provides a way for multiple mobile robots in cooperating teams. A robotic system with a team of mobile robots communicating information among each other provides a way to locate a source in cooperation. A mobile robot with a sensor, a communication system, and a processor, provides a way to execute a strategy for searching an area.

Abstract: A Robust Model-Free Adaptive controller is disclosed for effectively controlling simple to complex systems including industrial processes, equipment, facilities, devices, engines, robots, vehicles, and appliances. Without the need of re-designing a controller or re-tuning the controller parameters, the inventive controller is able to provide a wide robust range and keep the system under automatic control during normal and extreme operating conditions when there are significant disturbances or changes in system dynamics. Because of its simplicity and capability, the control system is useful for building flexible and adaptive production systems to fulfill the on demand manufacturing needs of the new e-commerce environment.

Abstract: Within both a method for operating a plurality of fabrication facilities and a system for operating the plurality of fabrication facilities there is providing within each of the plurality of fabrication facilities a corresponding plurality of backup control systems. Within the method and the system, each backup control system is connected with the remaining backup control systems within the remaining fabrication facilities within the plurality of fabrication facilities, and each backup control system is programmed to forward a request for fabrication in a remote fabrication facility within the plurality of fabrication facilities and receive a request for fabrication from a remote fabrication facility within the plurality of fabrication facilities. The method and the system are particularly useful for fabricating semiconductor integrated circuit microelectronic fabrications.

Abstract: A system and method which partitions a parameter estimation model, a fault detection model, and a fault classification model for a process surveillance scheme into two or more coordinated submodels together providing improved diagnostic decision making for at least one determined operating mode of an asset.

Abstract: A central processor of a factory automation system which has an application program 13 for issuing instructions to a plurality of controllers 1 to 4 in parallel and controlling the controllers 1 to 4, a plurality of interface 30a, 30b for connecting the application program 13 and the controllers 1 to 4, and interface control 35c for dynamically increasing or decreasing the number of the interface 30a, 30b in response to the number of the instructions issued by the application program 13 to the controllers 1 to 4 in parallel.

Abstract: An adaptive predictive expert control system for controlling single-input single-output, or multi-variable time-variant processes with known or unknown parameters and with or without time delay, is disclosed. The adaptive predictive expert control system of the present invention adds an expert block into the operation of previously known adaptive predictive control systems. This expert block based on rules and in the evolution of the process variables, determines and/or modifies the operation of the driver block, control block and adaptive feedback mechanism of the previous art, in order to improve the performance, robustness and stability of the overall control system.

Abstract: The invention is a computerized mobile robot with an onboard internet web server, and a capability of establishing a first connection to a remote web browser on the internet for robotic control purposes, and a capability of establishing a second short range bi-directional digital radio connection to one or more nearby computerized digital radio equipped devices external to the robot. The short-range bi-directional digital radio connection will typically have a maximum range of about 300 feet. In a preferred embodiment, this short-range wireless digital connection will use the 2.4 gHz band and digital protocols following the IEEE 802.11, 802.15, or other digital communications protocol.

Abstract: A distributed system provides for separate management of dynamic cluster membership and distributed data. Nodes of the distributed system may include a state manager and a topology manager. A state manager handles data access from the cluster. A topology manager handles changes to the dynamic cluster topology. The topology manager enables operation of the state manager by handling topology changes, such as new nodes to join the cluster and node members to exit the cluster. A topology manager may follow a static topology description when handling cluster topology changes. Data replication and recovery functions may be implemented, for example to provide high availability.

Abstract: A diagnostic tool automatically collects and stores data indicative of a variability parameter, a mode parameter, a status parameter and a limit parameter for a multi-variable function block associated with one or more devices or loops within a process control system, processes the collected data to determine which devices, loops or function blocks have problems that result in reduced performance of the process control system, displays a list of detected problems to an operator and then suggests the use of other, more specific diagnostic tools to further pinpoint or correct the problems. When the diagnostic tool recommends and executes a data intensive application as the further diagnostic tool, it automatically configures a controller of the process control network to collect the data needed for such a tool.

Abstract: An online monitor that can be permanently attached to a device to be monitored continuously monitors a set of analog signals and initiates data capture over a window of time when a user programmable set of conditions is satisfied. The online monitor includes a digital signal processing unit, a modular, interchangeable, analog signal conditioning base unit that can be tailored to the specific requirements of the process to be monitored and a modular, interchangeable, communication interface unit. The interface unit permits the digital signal processing unit to exchange data with external equipment such as network computers via a number of industry standard communication fieldbus protocols. The online monitor provides the capability to define the trigger condition under which data capture is initiated by comparing a user defined signal to a function of the instantaneous value of another signal or constant.

Abstract: To provide a system for providing information that allows operators who orally answer questions about certain products from users to deal with the users quickly and effectively. The level of information disclosure is specified for each electronic information to be used for customer support in an information server. In response to the reception of a request for information from an operator terminal, knowledge levels of the user and the operator are determined. The associated electronic information is edited according to rules of providing information that are determined according to the specified knowledge level. The edited version of the electronic information is supplied to the operator terminal. The extent to which information will be disclosed varies according to the level of the knowledge of the user or the operator for a certain product.

Abstract: An intelligent control method for injection machine is to transplant the intelligent control and prediction techniques of a neural network to an injection machine, which has been exemplified capable of deciding the quasi best machine parameters rapidly in couple processing cycles for increasing yield with least loss, and for detecting and adjusting conditions until a desired operation environment is obtained.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for using a neural network to process information includes multiple nodes arrayed in multiple layers for transforming input arrays from prior layers or the environment into output arrays for subsequent layers or output devices. Learning rules based on reinforcement are applied. Interconnections between nodes are provided in a manner whereby the number and structure of the interconnections are self-adjusted by the learning rules during learning. At least one of the layers is used as a processing layer, and multiple lateral inputs to each node of each processing layer are used to retrieve information. The invention provides rapid, unsupervised processing of complex data sets, such as imagery or continuous human speech, and captures successful processing or pattern classification constellations for implementation in other networks.

Abstract: A computing machine capable of performing multiple operations using a universal computing unit is provided. The universal computing unit maps an input signal to an output signal. The mapping is initiated using an instruction that includes the input signal, a weight matrix, and an activation function. Using the instruction, the universal computing unit may perform multiple operations using the same hardware configuration. The computation that is performed by the universal computing unit is determined by the weight matrix and activation function used. Accordingly, the universal computing unit does not require any programming to perform a type of computing operation because the type of operation is determined by the parameters of the instruction, specifically, the weight matrix and the activation function.

Abstract: A method and an electronic circuit arrangement is provided which allows observation of bus-systems and networks. In particular the method and circuit arrangement does not cause electrical or physical constraints and influence to the bus-systems and networks. Still more specifically it provides for accessing static bus-systems and networks in particular used by real-time constrained systems and applications such as in automotive vehicles.

Abstract: A computer-implemented method for calculating estimated risk of serious gastrointestinal (GI) hospitalization of a patient taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs includes the steps of obtaining patient values of a plurality of predictive factors, calculating an estimated risk from the patient values, and displaying the estimated risk, preferably on a monitor. The predictive factors may be age, global health status, proportion of time taking prednisone, occurrence of a previous GI side effect, and occurrence of a previous GI hospitalization. Preferably, the estimated risk is calculated from a Cox proportional hazard model, derived from a database of arthritis patients, using either continuous or categorical variables. The continuous model applies a standard Cox model to the predictive factors. The categorical model divides each predictive factor into categories, and assigns a point value to each predictive factor.

Abstract: A process for regulating a centrifuge used for solid/liquid separation of sewage sludge commences by measuring the input variables of the operating point ot the centrifuge, the variables including 1) suspended matter content of the centrate; 2) the flow rate of sludge; 3) the flow rate of reagent; and 4) the value of torque of the motor of a conventional centrifuge. Operating zones are established, each of which is two dimensional relative to the input variables. Fuzzy logic rules are established, qualifying the operation of the centrifuge, the rules respectively corresponding to the zones. The rules are implemented in response to the input variable measurements, where actions on the sludge flow rate and reagent flow rate make it possible to bring the operating point into a particular zone of optimal and stable centrifuge operation.

Abstract: An equipment module is analyzed through the use of an array of failure probability values. The array of failure probability values provides an indication of the probability that the equipment module will fail at a plurality of different times. A cost of operating the equipment module is determined by calculating the cost of operating the equipment module at each of the different times using the array of failure probability values, so that the cost calculated at each of the different times is proportional to the probability that the equipment module will fail at the respective time. The cost of operating the equipment module at each of the different times can include a recurring cost value and a non-recurring cost value. An additional probability can be utilized when calculating the cost of operating the equipment module. A maintenance time can be determined, and the costs are calculated in view of maintenance performed at the maintenance time.

Abstract: A system for processing knowledge items includes a memory coupled to a processor. The memory stores a number of knowledge items. The processor identifies a number of first questions for presentation to a knowledge worker, wherein each first question is associated with a question identifier. The processor further determines whether an answer to a particular first question is associated with a rule function. The processor identifies a second question for presentation to the knowledge worker based upon the result of a rule function associated with the answer, wherein the second question is associated with a question identifier. The method further identifies a number of knowledge items using the answer and the question identifier of the particular first question if no rule function is associated with the answer.

Abstract: The provides improved control devices, systems and methods for operation thereof. These rely on control devices that provide virtual machine environments in which Java objects, or other such software constructs, are executed to implement control (e.g., to monitor and/or control a device, process or system). These objects define blocks which are the basic functional unit of the control. They also define the input, output and body parts from which blocks are formed, and the signals that are communicated between blocks. The objects also define nested and composite groupings of blocks used to control loops and higher-level control functions.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for regulating Internet or Intranet access to selected functions of a machine controller based upon a user network address.