A Knowledge Based Multi-Database Interoperability System for the Integration of Manufacturing Resource Planning (MRP II) and Computer Aided Design (CAD).

The objective of Computer Integrated Manufacturing (CIM) is to develop a coherent database management system capable of controlling an entire manufacturing operation through the integration of manufacturing, design, and business functions. To begin this approach, an initial nucleus, which will be gradually expanded, by allowing interaction between it and other systems' databases, is needed. Manufacturing Resource Planning (MRP II) has the best position to serve as this nucleus, and the first suggested system for integration is Computer Aided Design (CAD). The integration between these two systems is centered around part specification, product structure, and engineering changes. A model of the CAD/MAP II integrated system, detailing the logical interaction between the systems in the fields of part specification maintenance, product structure data maintenance, and engineering changes, is currently being developed. A knowledge based multi-database interoperability system, which uses a formal language called "Update Dependencies" based on an AI production system, has been developed, and tested against the major part of the model design specification. The syntax and semantics of the Update Dependencies language are introduced as well as the description of the system model. Several results are illustrated in the demonstration session and a discussion of our experience so far is also presented here. Finally, the next steps of our implementation strategy are outlined