Feature-based component model for computer-aided process planning systems

Abstract

This paper describes a hierarchical structure for form features definition and classification, a planning data ‘reference model’ and an information structure used for developing process plans for prismatic machined components. Some of the methods used for representing the form-generating capabilities of machine tools are also outlined. These models form the basis for decision making in the prototype process planning system ‘GENPLAN’. The paper reports on how the models are being used for reasoning about component geometry during plan generation and process plan optimization strategy at the feature and component levels for the determination of component set-ups.