Hybrid approach to computer-aided process planning for prismatic parts

Abstract

One of the most difficult tasks in automated process planning is the determination of operation sequencing. This paper describes a hybrid approach for identifying the optimal operation sequence of machining prismatic parts on a three-axis milling machining centre. In the proposed methodology, the operation sequencing is carried out in two levels of planning: set-up planning and operation planning. Various constraints on the precedence relationships between features are identified and rules and heuristics are created. Based on the precedence relationships between features, an optimization method is developed to find the optimal plan(s) with minimum number of set-ups in which the conflict between the feature precedence relationships and set-up sequence is avoided. For each set-up, an optimal feature machining sequence with minimum number of tool changes is also determined using a developed algorithm. The proposed system is still under development and the hybrid approach is partially implemented. An example is provided to demonstrate this approach.