Development of a framework to automate process planning functions and to determine machining parameters

Abstract

A methodology is developed to perform the machining parameter selection function in an automated process planning environment. At the same time, a framework is developed to perform the machine and tool selection function of process planning. The purpose of the machining parameter selection function, as envisioned in this study, is to determine the number of roughing and finishing passes needed, depth of cut, cutting speed, and feed for each pass depending on the part geometry, tolerance, the available machine types and appropriate grades of cutting tools. A new stable cutting region constraint is proposed. A machining-related cost based on tolerance, called measurement and adjustment cost, is derived and included in the formulation. A way to determine maximum roughing depth of cut is indicated. Finally, a part example is used to demonstrate the concepts for a turning operation.