Also quick delivery after order receipt needed. Distributed databases that are immediately updatable needed. Intelligent human interface support systems needed. High demand for advanced supervisory systems. Automated restoration systems rated lower.
Immediate goals are in mechanical systems for diagnostic support.
Automating visual observations and other sensing tests rated higher by manufacturers than by users and are expected by 1995-98. Design operations need to be standardized. Production engineer know-how to be transformed into databases. Widespread use by 2000. Production management systems developed early but will be affected by development of databases and expert systems.