Abstract: A method and system of generating molecular mechanics force fields for computer simulation of molecular systems, including a graphic user interface 101, extensible database 108 containing parameterized force fields, data and molecular models, interfaces to quantum mechanics 102 and molecular mechanics 107 calculations, and a computational engine 105. A force field attributes assigner 205 assigns force field type, functional forms and atom types. A parameter estimator 206 makes initial force field parameters based on the database and a set of mathematical formulas. A fit engine 207 fits complex potential energy surfaces efficiently.

Abstract: Described is a system and method for facilitating interaction with information or knowledge. In one aspect, a knowledge-building component captures knowledge or information and stores it in a knowledge module. The knowledge module is attached to either a Web site or individual Web pages or documents within the Web site. The content and structure of the knowledge module determines the interactive functionality provided to the end user of the Web site. In another aspect, a knowledge serving component facilitates interaction with the information or knowledge. The knowledge serving component provides a user machine with alternative interactions. The knowledge serving component uses selections made by the user machine and the content of the knowledge module to direct the user machine to a specific piece of knowledge or information contained within a site.

Abstract: A system and methods providing for the evaluation of transaction data records to first determine forward link associations between items as reference and related items identified by corresponding “expert” users as a basis for establishing expert database item association rules. The forward link associations are then evaluated to identify back link associations between reference and related items. Back link weights, corresponding to the respective back link associations reflecting the depth and strength of the back linked associations are determined and associated with the forward link associations to provide an augmented basis for subsequently evaluating the association rules collected into an expert database.

Abstract: An expert system adapted data network guidance engine. The invention allows an agent to interact with a customer and to provide selection and recommendation of data network products and/or services for the customer. The invention allows for the use of agents of varying skill levels, including relatively low skill level, without suffering deleterious performance. The data network guidance engine is operable to perform generation and selection of configurations that are generated using various heuristics. If desired, numerous iterations are performed within each of the heuristic operations. The data network guidance engine is operable to select recommended configurations from among a number of potential options. In addition, compatible configurations may also be identified. The data network guidance engine is one of the underlying engines within the expert system that allows the agent to provide real time interaction with a customer and to provide a real time recommended solution to that customer.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an expert system for recommending a modification to a machine having a servo system. The expert system may be implemented as an unlimited access web site.

Abstract: A method of detecting, interpreting, recognizing, identifying and comparing N-dimensional shapes, partial shapes, embedded shapes and shape collages is disclosed. One embodiment of the invention allows for the characterization of shapes as sequences of unit vector descriptions, attributes of unit vector descriptions, shape segments, and shape segment collages whereby the detection, interpretation, recognition, identification, comparison and analysis of one- to n-dimensional shapes in one- to n-dimensional spaces can be accomplished using multidimensional attractor tokens. These attractor processes map the sequence from its original sequence representation space (OSRS) into a hierarchical multidimensional attractor space (HMAS). The HMAS can be configured to represent equivalent symbol distributions within two symbol sequences or perform exact symbol sequence matching. The mapping process results in each sequence being drawn to an attractor in the HMAS.

Abstract: A method of generating language specific code comprising the steps of extracting neutral code from a knowledge base, preprocessing the neutral code, providing a code generator with the preprocessed neutral code and a target language in to which the preprocessed neutral code is to be translated, and processing the preprocessed neutral code by translating the neutral code into a target language code.

Abstract: An intelligent business rules module and method for processing an action to be performed on a design. The action includes adding a feature, changing a value of an attribute of a feature, removing a feature, and moving a feature from an old work location in the design to a new work location in the design. The intelligent business rules module includes instructions for determining a type of the action, determining the feature type of the feature that is the subject of the action, and determining whether a business rule exists for performing the action type on the feature type. If a business rule exists, the business rules module determines whether performing the action on the feature will satisfy the business rule. If performing the action will satisfy the business rule, the intelligent business rules module approves the action to be performed on the design.

Abstract: To identify the best choice from a set of alternatives, team members select the criteria to be used in identifying the best choice. Each criterion describes at least one feature of the alternatives. Each team member then, for each alternative, defines a target value for the feature of the criteria and sets a level of knowledge about the feature of the criteria. Using the target values and the team member's knowledge of each feature, each team member estimates how well the alternatives meet the target values for the features. The system then calculates an expected utility for each alternative based on the team member's estimations and a probability that each alternative is the best choice. Finally, based on the expected utility and probability that each alternative is best, a best choice is identified.

Abstract: A method is provided for auditing the configuration of an enterprise comprising the steps of: collecting information relating to the configuration of the enterprise, analyzing the configuration information based on expert knowledge; and providing the result of the analysis in the form of reports, and other results of the analyses.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for analyzing a survey database, wherein a user can perform a wide variety of requests to the survey database without having to independently calculate a desired result. In accordance with the present invention, this may be accomplished by using a rules-based expert system for forming and executing requests to a survey database. In a rules-based expert system, a number of rules are provided wherein the rules contain much of the “knowledge” of the experts, thereby allowing “non-expert” users to perform “expert” analysis of client satisfaction data in an accurate and repeatable fashion.

Abstract: An method and apparatus for extracting an interpretable, meaningful, and concise rule set from neural networks is presented. The method involves adjustment of gain parameter, &lgr; and the threshold, Tj for the sigmoid activation function of the interactive-or operator used in the extraction/development of a rule set from an artificial neural network. A multi-stage procedure involving coarse and fine adjustment is used in order to constrain the range of the antecedents of the extracted rules to the range of values of the inputs to the artificial neural network. Furthermore, the consequents of the extracted rules are provided based on degree of membership such that they are easily understandable by human beings. The method disclosed may be applied to any pattern recognition task, and is particularly useful in applications such as vehicle occupant sensing and recognition, object recognition, gesture recognition, and facial pattern recognition, among others.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for generating a workflow on a computer. Assessment data, e.g. defining a need, is obtained from a user. Based thereon, a workflow including a logical sequence of interdependent steps to be made is created using an assessment system. A number of workflow steps are presented to the user in a logical order, and results from the progress of one or more steps may be gathered. The workflow may be modified thereon, if needed, using sub-solutions, logic rules, inference rules and said results by adding and/or removing steps to/from said workflow based on a list of purposes and knowledge of the order in which some or all steps must be made. After modifying the workflow, the presentation thereof is started by the next one or more unfinished steps which are not dependent on an unfinished step, thereby forming an adaptive procedure.

Abstract: A method for detecting fires and reacting thereto. A stationary, earth orbit satellite, drone aircrafts or piloted aircraft contains infrared detectors and optical means for detecting fires. A computer in the satellite, drone or piloted aircraft and/or on the ground analyzes image signals of the areas being monitored and, upon detecting infrared radiation of varying intensity and shape, indicative that a fire has started, generates signals which are indicative of the coordinate locations of the fire, the extent of the fire, the shape of the area(s) burning, the direction of movement of the fires, the speed(s) of the flame fronts, smoke condition, intensity of the fire, fire ball location(s), etc. In one form, a camera generates image signals which are digitized and recorded. Expert system logic is used to prioritize dangerous areas to assist in directing fire fighting.

Abstract: A programming language for programming industrial controllers in relay ladder logic language, the programming language including both extensions to standard RLL rung form itself and extensions wholly independent of the standard form. The language uses a plurality of templates, each template including truly reusable relay ladder language sections. Most templates also include specifications identifying other templates which provide additional language logic required to define job-specific aspects of the referencing template. Using the templates a machine tree can be provided which mirrors an industrial process. By compiling all of the templates, a relay ladder language program can be provided.

Abstract: A system is disclosed that provides a goal based learning system utilizing a rule based expert training system to provide a cognitive educational experience. The system provides the user with a simulated environment that presents a business opportunity to understand and solve optimally. Mistakes are noted and remedial educational material presented dynamically to build the necessary skills that a user requires for success in the business endeavor. The system utilizes an artificial intelligence engine driving individualized and dynamic feedback with synchronized video and graphics used to simulate real-world environment and interactions. Multiple “correct” answers are integrated into the learning system to allow individualized learning experiences in which navigation through the system is at a pace controlled by the learner.

Abstract: A method, apparatus, and program product for designing, implementing, distributing, and deploying computer programs that consist of packaged knowledge components written in modem object oriented programming languages. A meta model defines a model for representing facts, intelligence, and packaging facts and intelligence into readily usable knowledge components implemented in off the shelf object oriented programming languages and tools. In addition, the meta model defines knowledge algebra to assemble and cascade knowledge components into larger and more powerful knowledge components and knowledge oriented software applications. A kernel is provided that links and executes knowledge components and knowledge oriented applications. The kernel dynamically links logical definition of knowledge components and the knowledge application to real implementations.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for detecting an endless loop in a rules-based expert system. This is preferably accomplished by maintaining a count for each of the rules during rule processing. The count indicates the number of times a corresponding rule is executed by the rules based expert system. If the count corresponding to any of the rules exceeds a predetermined value, it is concluded that the rules-based expert system is stuck in an endless loop, and the rules-based expert system is interrupted.

Abstract: A system is disclosed that provides a goal based learning system utilizing a rule based expert training system to provide a cognitive educational experience. The system provides the user with a simulated environment that presents a business opportunity to understand and solve optimally. Mistakes are noted and remedial educational material presented dynamically to build the necessary skills that a user requires for success in the business endeavor. The system utilizes an artificial intelligence engine driving individualized and dynamic feedback with synchronized video and graphics used to simulate real-world environment and interactions. Multiple “correct” answers are integrated into the learning system to allow individualized learning experiences in which navigation through the system is at a pace controlled by the learner.

Abstract: A rules-based expert analysis system for networks includes a combination of algorithmic and heuristic rules which are grouped in hierarchies in one or more related categories of network performance criteria. Each rule is interdependent in a prioritized manner with one or more other rules, and although the interdependencies are fixed the rule priorities are adaptable based on the user entered objective of the analysis.

Abstract: A method and expert system are capable of assisting experts in documenting failure attributes of a functional system as well as subsequent users in diagnosing the functional system. The system uses an author interface, an inference generator, and a user interface to draw authoring and diagnostic inferences based on expert and user input. The inference generator includes a knowledge base containing general failure attribute information. The inference generator allows the expert system to provide experts and users with suggestions relating to the particular task at hand. The result is a fully integrated means for documenting failure attributes of a functional system, and for diagnosing the functional system.

Abstract: The invention automatically determines the number of clusters in a Bayesian network or in a mixture of Bayesian networks (MBN). A common external hidden variable is associated with the network. Expected sufficient statistics (ESS) are computed in the case of a Bayesian network or expected complete model sufficient statistics (ECMSS) are computed in the case of an MBN, from the observed data. An expected sample size for each state of a hidden variable is computed from the ESS or ECMSS. The optimum number of states is reached by deleting those states having a sample size less than a predetermined threshold.

Abstract: A device that determines conditions under which a web break is more likely to occur in a printing system stores data pertaining to ink temperature or ink temperature gain. The device then implements a correlation analysis, such as a decision-tree induction analysis, using the stored data to determine if there is a correlation between the one or more attributes and the occurrence of a web break. The device has a multiplicity of ink fountains and includes a first temperature sensor that measures a first ink temperature and a second temperature that measures a second ink temperature. A controller compares the first ink temperature to the second ink temperature to determine an ink temperature gain, compares the ink temperature gain to a desired ink temperature gain range and generates an output signal based on the comparison.

Abstract: An enhanced knowledge management system (“KMS”) is provided. The enhanced KMS provides a customizable, person-to-person, knowledge sharing portal that manages concurrent one-on-one conversations between requesters and expert resources. Through the knowledge sharing portal, the KMS provides the automatic capture, organization, and reuse of tacit knowledge, as well as integration with existing systems that manage already documented (explicit) knowledge. Example embodiments provide a Conversation Manager, which manages communication in the form of conversations (question and answer sequences) between users (requesters) and experts (expert resources), and allows system administrators to customize the system. Conversations are organized by subject matter categories and experts are ranked preferably by the system and by users, thereby increasing the likelihood of the KMS providing answers to users' questions.

Abstract: A system is disclosed that provides a goal based learning system utilizing a rule based expert training system to provide a cognitive educational experience. The system provides the user with a simulated environment that presents a business opportunity to understand and solve optimally. Mistakes are noted and remedial educational material presented dynamically to build the necessary skills that a user requires for success in the business endeavor. The system utilizes an artificial intelligence engine driving individualized and dynamic feedback with synchronized video and graphics used to simulate real-world environment and interactions. Multiple “correct” answers are integrated into the learning system to allow individualized learning experiences in which navigation through the system is at a pace controlled by the learner.

Abstract: Device for finding unknown, multifactorial triggers of paroxysmally occurring illnesses, which is coupled to an electronic patient file and/or, if appropriate, spatially distributed databases, a comparison and evaluation device carrying out, after a paroxysm, a correlation analysis in order to search for typical patterns in the temporal occurrence of the stored data elements.

Abstract: A method is provided for auditing the configuration of an enterprise comprising the steps of: collecting information relating to the configuration of the enterprise, analyzing the configuration information based on expert knowledge; and providing the result of the analysis in the form of reports, and other results of the analyses.

Abstract: A method and apparatus is provided for auditing the configuration of an enterprise using low-level analyzers that include a program and a descriptor of the type of collector data the program can accept, and high-level analyzers that are descriptors which call upon, or incorporate by reference, other analyzer descriptors. A framework, guided by one or more analyzer descriptors and by any descriptors those descriptors may call upon or incorporate by reference, repeatedly executes the set of programs associated with some of the analyzer descriptors against a different node or nodes of an enterprise during each such execution. When executing a program, the framework provides the program with the collector data of the type designated by the descriptor associated with the program.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method to create a Boolean or multilevel logic network model of a dynamic system of interdependent variables from observed system states transitions that can (1) operate with data consisting of only a fraction of all possible transitions, (2) accommodate measurement error on these transitions (3) produce a probability distribution over network functions (rather than simply giving one set of network functions that match the data) (4) support asynchronous activation times for different genes (5) support varying delays between gene activation and gene expression for different genes (6) accommodate the stochastic nature of gene network operations (7) support varying degrees of gene activation (not simply Boolean activation states) and (8) incorporate prior knowledge of the nature and limitations of the actual network functions being modeled.

Abstract: A computer-implemented method for helping a learner practice by providing hints is described. A simple question is provided to a learner. A decision is made on whether a hint is to be provided to the learner. A hint is provided to the learner if the decision is “yes”. A learner-given answer is received from the learner. The correctness of the learner-given answer is checked.

Abstract: A computer network alarm and control system for use in a network comprising a plurality of platforms susceptible to failure comprises a notification system coupled to the network of platforms for receiving an alarm signal from the platforms and outputting a notification identifying a platform indicating an alarm, a qualification of the alarm and a severity of the alarm and an expert system including an inference engine coupled to the notification system, the inference engine having an associated knowledge base for outputting an appropriate resolution to the notification system. An optional explanation facility system communicates with the inference engine of the expert system, the explanation facility system, responsive to a query, outputting an explanation for the appropriate resolution.

Abstract: A method of and apparatus for analyzing thoughts, perceptions, knowledge, feelings etc., of an individual. A set of elements are input or selected by a user. A single element and a pair of elements are formed. A user inputs similar characteristics between the pair of elements and different characteristics between the single element and pair of elements. This is performed for a number of iterations and elements and characteristic combinations. The elements are then ranked by a user in relation to each characteristic and the rankings are analyzed to determine the correlation between elements and characteristics. The analysis may be expanded or refined and further elements and characteristics may be added at any stage.

Abstract: A system and method for integrating entities using a graphic user interface (GUI) to provide user-interactive rule-based matching and difference reconciliation. In one aspect, a system for integrating entities employs a combination of default matching and reconciliation approaches and user tailoring to generate a composite entity from one or more input entities using a set of composition rules. The set of composition rules comprises a combination of default rules, as well as rules that represent user interactions that are performed via a graphical user interface when the user edits a composite result. The rules are captured and then stored persistently when the user requests that the composition be saved, such that the rules may be retrieved during a subsequent editing session associated with the same inputs. If the inputs change, the integration process (as specified by the rules) can automatically handle many changes.

Abstract: An artificial intelligence diagnostic device is provided for performing concentrated management on electric devices and control devices of an automobile using a separate diagnostic central processing unit to diagnose the malfunction of the automobile in real time and for reporting the diagnosis result to a driver through a visual display or a voice.

Abstract: A system and method for searching on a computer. The method involves generating a knowledge base. The knowledge base includes information. The method further involves specifying an evidence set to include a proper subset of the information. The method also entails deriving the evidence set from the knowledge base.

Abstract: Knowledge deficiency of an expert system (110) is alleviated by automating extraction of data that is relevant to the expert system's diagnostics knowledge database (112) and automatically and in an on-going manner updating the knowledge database with the extracted information. Evolving diagnostic knowledge in a domain is represented in the form of semi-structured natural-language reports (116). A computer-implemented tool (120) analyzes (206) a report to determine its kind, and then employs (222) an intelligent filter (124,126) corresponding to that kind of report to parse (224-244) the report's sections, to extract (226-244) data therefrom, and to perform consistency checks (228, 234) between sections on the extracted data. The computer then assembles (248) the extracted data into database records and includes (250) them in the knowledge database.

Abstract: A system is described for automatically invoking computational resources without intervention or request from a user of the system. The computational resources may operating by searching across a network, or may themselves be located across a network. In the system a query-free information retrieval system is described in which the exact technical documentation contained in existing user or other technical manuals is provided to a user investigating apparatus having a fault. The user enters symptoms based upon the user's analysis of the apparatus, and in response the system provides information concerning likely faults with the apparatus. As the symptoms are entered, the relative value of individual faults is determined and related to the symptoms they cause. The user can then select technical information relating to probable faults in the system.

Abstract: There is provided a reconfigurable computing system (10) for performing both script and rule processing. Reconfigurable computing system (10) generally includes a script processing module (100); a reconfigurable rule processing module (200); and a controller module (300). Reconfigurable rule processing module (200) includes a working memory portion (210a, 210b), a rule evaluation portion (230), and an interconnection portion (220, 222) for coupling together the working memory (210a, 210b) and rule evaluation (230) portions. The rule evaluation portion (230) is formed by a plurality of inference cells, each of which is configured to generate an inference signal responsive to at least a portion of an input signal. Controller module (300) which is coupled to both script processing module (100) and rule processing module (200) is capable of automatically actuating reconfiguration of rule processing module (200) in accordance with predetermined processing logic.

Abstract: The computer-aided official management system for developments described in patents and publications, which limits the official examination work for each development and substantially supports development management, permits data to be organized in a classification system with low redundancy. The management system contains a multiplicity of development systems (1) which emerge from one another by means of set operations via orientated relationships (4), in that each development system (1) is linked to a database (11), which contains, in particular, the definition of the development system (1) serving as a reference system (2), the formulation and status of each individual relationship (4) forming the development system (1), as well as unique indicators to further data. The development systems are uniquely defined as intersection sets in the data structure for linking previously separately considered reference systems via the relationships (4).

Abstract: A recurrent training method comprising the steps of configuring a computer to provide training-related information on a particular subject to a user of the computer, presenting through a computer training-related information to the user of the computer during a first training session at a first time, and initiating subsequent training sessions at recurrent times thereafter under computer control. Upon initiation of the subsequent training sessions, either by presenting training-related information to the user or by prompting the user for approval to present training-related information, the training method interrupts the user's interaction with other on-going activities on the computer, thereby reminding the computer user, at various times, of the need to perform training and, at the user's discretion, providing the user with recurrent training through recurrent training sessions.

Abstract: A system for automatically detecting fires in select areas, and reacting thereto to put out the fires. A stationary, earth orbit satellite, pilotless drone aircrafts or piloted aircraft contains one or more infrared detectors and optical means for detecting small fires when they first occur in fields and wooded areas, preferably where man made campfires and trash dumping are prohibited. A computer in the satellite, drone or piloted aircraft and/or on the ground receives and analyzes image signals of the earth area or areas being monitored and, upon detecting infrared radiation of varying intensity and variable shape, indicative that a fire has started, generates coded signals which are (a) indicative of the coordinate locations of the fire, (b) the extent of the fire, (c) the shape of the area(s) burning, (d) the direction of movement of the fires (e) the speed(s) of the flame fronts, (f) smoke condition, (g) intensity of the fire, (h) fire ball location(s), etc.

Abstract: A general event composing and monitoring system that allows high-level events to be created from combinations of low-level events. An event specification tool allows for rapid development of a general event processor that creates high-level events from combinations of user actions. The event system, in combination with a reasoning system, is able to monitor and perform inference about several classes of events for a variety of purposes. The various classes of events include the current context, the state of key data structures in a program, general sequences of user inputs, including actions with a mouse-controlled cursor while interacting with a graphical user interface, words typed in free-text queries for assistance, visual information about users, such as gaze and gesture information, and speech information.

Abstract: A computer system and method of controlling the same utilize logically-typed concept highlighting to link together in a user's mind the relationships between various concepts within a body of knowledge. Information from a body of knowledge is maintained in one or more information elements, at least a portion of which are associated with one or more named concepts. Links are defined between two or more named concepts, so that information elements associated with named concepts linked via a link may be visually represented to a user in such a manner that the link between such named concepts is apparent to the user. The links are selectively enabled in response to a predetermined criteria so that different links may be enabled or disabled under appropriate circumstances.

Abstract: Expert systems often must be operated under constraints of time or other computer resources. In the past, this has created significant problems since conventional "depth-first" systems will often not be able to arrive at a satisfactory response, or even any response at all, within the limitations of the constraint. Accordingly, an expert system control process and an associated inference network are provided which assign merit values to each inference node (i.e. each proposition) of the inference network. These merit values reflect the processing cost of expanding a node to calculate a likelihood value for the proposition that the node represents. The merit values are then used in the control process to determine which of the nodes will be processed first to calculate likelihood values. In this way, a "best-first" control process is provided which takes account of the actual processing cost of each node in the inference network to establishing which nodes are, in fact, "best" to evaluate first.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for efficiently debugging and/or testing a rules based expert system. To provide guidance when updating a test sequence, the present invention contemplates identifying which rule sets and/or rules were exercised by the test sequence, and which were not exercised. The present invention also contemplates identifying the rule sets and/or rules that were exercised, and the percent of the rule sets/rules that were exercised. This and other information may be useful in identifying appropriate changes for the test sequence so that those rule sets and/or rules that were not exercised during the previous iteration are exercised in a subsequent iteration.

Abstract: A system is disclosed that provides a goal based learning system utilizing a rule based expert training system to provide a cognitive educational experience. The system provides the user with a simulated environment that presents a business opportunity to understand and solve optimally. Mistakes are noted and remedial educational material presented dynamically to build the necessary skills that a user requires for success in the business endeavor. The system utilizes an artificial intelligence engine driving individualized and dynamic feedback with synchronized video and graphics used to simulate real-world environment and interactions. Multiple "correct" answers are integrated into the learning system to allow individualized learning experiences in which navigation through the system is at a pace controlled by the learner.

Abstract: This invention describes a method and system for assimilating data, applying reasoning mechanisms, and emulating the thought processes of a credit officer for commercial credit analysis. The system aids a credit officer in the risk assessment and completion of a loan package. The system thereby improves loan turnaround time and customer service, improving loan servicing capacity, quality, and consistency of credit decisions, and reducing costs. The system includes: 1) a conventional data base management system subsystem that manages and collects data via electronic access and end-user data entry; and 2) a decision support expert system that applies a knowledge base and inference engine (collectively known as an assessment model) utilizing an evidence tree and a generalized weighting approach to analyze credit requests.

Abstract: A GUI is used to reduce the large task of creating data mining objects into a structured series of smaller steps. Generic headings for a sequence of GUI panels used in developing data mining objects are: Introduction (Welcome) panel; Selection of technique and settings name panel; Selection of a data source (when appropriate); Setting of general parameters (one or more panels); Output/results created and named for executable objects particular to the technique selected (depends on object selected); Naming the settings object and Finish page (completed). Each GUI panel intelligently leads the user through a series of low-level decisions. Each succeeding panel is chosen by the data input during the present panel. At completion, the user may review the series of GUI panels and selections and entries made to modify the resulting mining object. Once created, the objects are graphically ordered to create a sequence object which is then named and saved, thus preserving the sequence for future use.

Abstract: A device and method that determine conditions under which a break in a web of a printing system is more likely to occur store data pertaining to one or more attributes associated with the manufacture of each web used in a plurality of printing runs. The device and method then implement a correlation analysis, such as a decision-tree induction analysis, using the stored data to determine if there is a correlation between the one or more web manufacturing attributes and the occurrence of a web break. The device and method may store web manufacturing data indicating one or more of a mill site, a web manufacturing machine, a date, a reel number, a reel set, a log position, any auxiliary web manufacturing equipment, a web tensile strength, a web moisture content and/or a coefficient of friction associated with the manufacture of the webs used in the plurality of printing runs.

Abstract: A directed heuristic search (DHS) has been developed for an optimization design system. The DHS an optimization simulation system has been developed. The DHS directs a design optimization process that implements a user's selections and directions, the order and directions in which the search for an optimal design is to be conducted, and how the search is to sequence through potential design solutions. In addition, DHS is tractable, in that it records a log of the sequence of design solutions that were evaluated during a particular design optimization search. The user may review this search log, to understand how and why the DHS made design optimization decisions. The user may change search parameter settings in a user defined dependency to change future search patterns for optimal designs.