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32 PCB007 MAGAZINE I NOVEMBER 2023 there is no data available, the factories turn to the relevant "experts" for advice. An expert will draw on past experiences or instigate a DOE process to provide a best estimate for what will happen. But human experts are not available 24/7, and may even leave, taking their knowledge with them. Multi- ple experts may have conflict- ing opinions, making a quick informed decision impos- sible. To improve, com- puter ized exper ts have been developed, vary- ing from simple spread- sheets to more complex rules-based systems. D ynamic dec i s ion- making requires expert systems to be replaced by self- learning systems. An expert system may use a complex set of rules to make decisions, but the rules are oen fixed and do not change without human inter- vention. Given the number of pos- sible product and process permu- tations discussed previously, it is not po ssi- ble to develop rules to cover every situation. Smart manufacturing requires its own embed- ded intelligence. Machine learning can be used where it is difficult or not feasible to develop explicit rules to solve a problem. Self-learning, auton- omous systems are becoming a reality in the field of manufacturing due to three primary factors: • Availability of data from the latest generations of production equipment • Improved machine learning and algorithms • More powerful computers Machine learning enables self-learning sys- tems that adapt and evolve with the ever- changing manufacturing landscape. Conclusion e Smart factory revolution in the PCB industry hinges on the effective utilization of raw data. Data is not an end in itself but rather the foundation upon which intelligent manu- facturing solutions are built. By implementing a robust framework for data quality, embrac- ing machine learning, and fostering a cul- ture of data-driven decision- making, the industry can achieve its goals of effi- ciency, quality, and prof- itability while solv- ing complex prob- lems like registration control. The journey toward the Smart fac- tory is ongoing, but it is guided by data, information, knowl- edge, wisdom and, ulti- mately, decisive action. As with all journeys, it starts by deciding which direction you w ish to go and tak ing the first step. In the words of Arthur C. Clarke, "Before you become too entranced w ith gorgeous gadgets and mesmer izing v ideo di sp lay s, let me remind you that information is not knowledge, knowledge is not wisdom, and wisdom is not foresight. Each grows out of the other, and we need them all." PCB007 Andrew Kelley is CTO of XACTPCB Ltd. The Smart factory revolution in the PCB industry hinges on the effective utilization of raw data.