Object-oriented analysis and design of computer aided process planning systems

Computer aided process planning (CAPP) systems in the real world are usuall y large and complex. The creation of a correct analysis and model of a CAPP system before implementation is a crucial step in the successful generatio n and operation of computer-integrated systems fur today's highly competiti ve and dynamic environment. Few reports describe a rigorous approach to the object-oriented analysis and design of such systems. This paper presents a n object-oriented analysis and design strategy for CAPP systems. It then il lustrates in detail how such a strategy can be carried out in a specific do main for process planning: the printed circuit board (PCB) industry. The st udy is believed to be one of the pioneer efforts in CAPP systems analysis a nd design using the object-oriented approach. The authors' experience justi fies the use of the object-oriented approach to create a CAPP system, as th e resultant model can he used almost as a direct mapping during implementat ion.