THE USE OF VISUAL MODELING IN DESIGNING A MANUFACTURING PROCESS FOR ADVANCED COMPOSITE STRUCTURES

Visual modeling is the depiction of abstractions of reality using visu al representation of the phenomena being studied, These visual represe ntations include graphs, maps, flowcharts, and pictures. Iconic progra mming includes the construction acid implementation of models using th is representation. The result can be readily exercised and assessed by experts, thereby helping to ensure the accuracy of the model and its usefulness in supporting the relevant decision process. This paper dis cusses visual modeling and demonstrates its usefulness in a case study of the design of a manufacturing process involving composite material s and associated manufacturing technologies.