Model-based online control of optimal fixturing process

Abstract

This paper presents an off-line simulation approach that aims to provide a model-based online control of a proposed intelligent fixturing system. The intelligent fixturing system is to adaptively adjust the clamping forces to optimal values during the machining process. Using the off-lime simulation, an analytical fixture-workpiece model and an optimization method have been developed for the control of a fixturing system. This simulation can also be applied to evaluate the performance of a fixturing system and determine optimal clamping forces for a given fixture configuration. Experiments have been conducted to verify the proposed model. The fixturing system can be applied in a high-precision machining environment where the workpiece deformation due to overclamping and improper machining is a major concern.