Design by features: advantages and limitations in machine planning integration

Abstract

Features research has been pursued for some years now as a key link between computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacture, with two main approaches being taken: design by features and feature recognition. This paper describes research into the integration of a machine planner, in a product model environment, which took a design by features approach. The role of features in machine planning for prismatic components is described, as are the methods used in the research to capture feature-specific data and feature-interaction data. The advantages and limitations of the approach taken are discussed together with directions for future research.