Neural network technology encompasses a class of methods
which attempt to mimic the basic structures used in the
brain for information processing. Thetechnology is aimed at
problems such as pattern recognition which are difficult for
traditional computational methods. Neural networks have
potential applications in many industrial areas such as
advanced robotics, operations research, and process
engineering.
This book is concerned with the application of neural
network technology to real industrial problems. It
summarizes a three-year collaborative international project
called ANNIE (Applications of Neural Networks for Industry
in Europe) which was jointly funded by industry and the
European Commission within the ESPRIT programme. As a record
of a working project, the book gives an insight into the
real problems faced in taking a new technology from the
workbench into a live industrial application, and shows just
how it can be achieved. It stresses the comparison between
neural networks and conventional approaches. Even the
non-specialist reader will benefit from understanding the
limitations as well as the advantages of the new technology.