A database system for decision support in low-volume electronics assembly

Abstract

The development of accurate database systems is fundamental for the support of any software, especially in knowledge- and data-driven applications. The paper presents a database system developed to support an integrated modelling framework definition for printed circuit board (PCB) assembly that can provide decision support to business processes throughout the product and process life cycle. Specifically, by adopting an integrated modelling framework within the PCB assembly manufacturing, complete and realistic data information models were obtained and organized using a relational database management system implemented in Structured Query Language. This database system in turn supports a set of software applications implemented as part of a decision support framework, in this case known as CLOVES (Complex Low Volume Electronics Simulation). The underlying database is open, extensible, and has the ability to be configurable by original equipment manufacturers and contract electronics manufacturers to update their materials, processes, and rules. Integration to a company's enterprise resource planning system and its deployment in quality, simulation, and failure analyses call for the improvement of electronics manufacturing industry data-exchange practices.