Data to be processed

The aiCAM^stir project investigates Artificial Intelligence based Computer Aided Manufacturing of Friction Stir Welds

Data to be processed in the aiCAM^stir project are parameters, variables, boundary values and quality.

Key data to be processed

Data to be processed in the aiCAMstir project are parameters, variables, boundary values and quality.

According to digitalisation and data processing experts, the following categorisation of key data could be considered:

Parameters	Variables	Boundry Values	Quality
Values that you set	Values that result during welding	Values that affect the results	Quality
Rotation speed Welding speed Tool design	Tool temperature Clamping forces	Workpiece materials Workpiece cleanliness Tool materials and coatings Temperature of the workpieces Temperature of the fixture Geometry of the set-up Spindle tilt angle	Tensile strength Elongation Visual appearance Fatigue strength Voids (pores) Weld depth Lack of penetration Bend test results Inclusions Helium-tightness
Tool position Tool forces Spindle torque
	Gap between the parts Tool wear

The categorisation depends on the concept and complexity of the machine. Modern FSW machines provide close-loop force and position control algorithms, which complicate the distinction between parameters and variables. Some machines use the temperature as a parameter that can be set, e.g. to change the parameters if the tool gets too hot.

Please feel free to improve the classification above or to propose an alternative classification. Or use the discussion page for discussing changes.

CAM and FSW

• Computer Aided Manufacturing (CAM) includes data monitoring, data processing and data visualisation
• Friction Stir Welding (FSW) is a special process, and its quality can only be determined statistically

Benefits

• Simplify the data exchange
• Reduce the reaction time
• Automate the documentation
• Provide more attractive products and services

Traps

• CAM has no value by itself
• Humans need to be involved
• Raw data aren't providing information
• Visual management is required

The two approaches to data collection and processing

Bottom Up

• Collect and store as much data as possible at all times
• Use Data Mining to process the data according to specific needs
  • Advantages: Infrastructure will be installed. Data transfer is standardised
  • Disadvantages: There might be no short-term benefit. Creation and storage of data garbage^(WP)

Top Down

• Specific objectives
• Data collection is related to the needs
  • Advantage: Very good cost-benefit-ratio. Simple entry and fast progress
  • Disadvantages: Risk of insular solutions. Data might not be sufficient for the next project