Fuzzy-logic-based ranking of steel grades generated by material design KBS

A material design system has been developed, utilising mathematical modeling and knowledge-based approaches. The Knowledge-Based System (KBS) generates about 15-30 different target compositions for steelmaking for each customer order. Fuzzy logic is applied in the system for the design of steel plates, to rank the alternative target compositions for steelmaking according to the degree to which they will satisfy the customer's requirements of chemical and mechanical properties, with due consideration given to the economic aspects and the complexity involved in the production. Statistical data regarding the performance of the grades produced in the past are also utilised in this process. The development of individual, composite and Weighted Sum Membership Functions (WSMFs) has been identified as very important in realistically ranking the target compositions for steelmaking. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.