Manufacturing Systems

Functional materials, so called smart materials, have the ability to adapt to external environmental conditions i.e. they are able to change their properties through external physical stimuli so that, they are optimally adapted to their surroundings. These processes are accompanied by energy conversion processes. These properties predestine smart materials to act as sensors and actuators. They enable high functionality in simplified structures, already on the material level. Therewith, a new and better quality can be achieved in product design.

The large number of systems offered on the market makes a well-founded selection process necessary from the requirement survey to the final system selection. A comprehensive model that systematically supports and simplifies this process is the subject of this two-part article. The methodology goes beyond a questionnaire-based query and verifies system capabilities using structured case studies. The first part of the article [1] describes the process steps from the survey and collection of requirements of the customer to the system to their structuring in customer specifications. The present second part outlines the process steps of the system rough selection up to its fine selection. The individual selection steps are methodically supported by practical references as well as by the use of concrete tools. Using the described methodology selected systems can be objectively compared - a prerequisite for effective and efficient system selection for industrial companies.