EXPERIMENTAL-DESIGN WITH FUZZY LEVELS

A novel technique is introduced for planning experimental design emplo ying fuzzy rule-based systems. The significant aspect of the proposed experimental design with fuzzy levels (EDFL) is assigning a membership function for each level of variable factors. Consequently, the design matrix and observed responses can be represented in a set of fuzzy ru les. Several examples are presented to clarify the proposed idea and t he results are compared with the conventional Taguchi methodology. We have specifically planned an L-18 orthogonal array EDFL for the solder paste printing stage of surface mount printed circuit board assembly to provide a model for the process and to optimize the selection of va riable factors.