Use of artificial intelligence for the optimization of a laser transformation hardening process

This work proposes an interaction between a heat transfer model and an artificial intelligence (AI) heuristic search method which is linked to a Knowledge Basis for the optimization of a Laser Transformation Hardening (LTH) process. The developed computational program selects the best combinations of laser operational variables for the highest martensitic production and for laser energy saving. The mathematical model consists on an analytical part to describe the workpiece laser heating and a numerical part for the cooling process. The Knowledge Basis is a rule-based system constituted of heat treatment constraints. The use of the developed search method for determining optimized laser operational variables can be considered a very effective tool in the improvement of the LTH process performance.