Soft computing and fractal theory for intelligent manufacturing

This book presents new methods for intelligent manufacturing through the integration of soft computing techniques and fractal theory. Soft Computing (SC) encompasses various paradigms, including fuzzy logic, neural networks, and genetic algorithms, enabling the creation of powerful hybrid intelligent systems. Fractal theory offers mathematical tools to comprehend the geometrical complexity of natural objects, aiding in identification and modeling. By combining SC techniques with fractal theory, we harness the intelligence of computational methods alongside the descriptive power of fractals. Industrial manufacturing systems are inherently non-linear dynamical systems, exhibiting complex dynamic behaviors, highlighting the necessity for computational intelligence in these environments. We define "intelligent manufacturing" as the application of SC techniques and fractal theory to achieve key manufacturing objectives, such as production planning and control, fault monitoring and diagnosis, and automated quality control. The book begins with an overview of existing methodologies in Soft Computing, followed by a detailed description of our approach to addressing challenges in intelligent manufacturing. Our perspective emphasizes that achieving intelligent manufacturing in practical applications requires the integration of SC techniques and fractal theory.