An object-oriented neutral feature model for feature conversion

This paper describes the application of neutral features to facilitate feat ure conversion. Feature conversion among various applications is achieved t hrough a two-way conversion process. When an application modifies its own f eatures, the corresponding neutral features will be adjusted. This modifica tion will be propagated to all the other applications through the conversio n process. A prototype feature conversion system has been established. The system currently supports the design and manufacture of prismatic machined parts. Three applications are defined: design application, machining planni ng application and set-up planning application. Each application has its ow n set of application features. Object-oriented technology is employed in sy stem development. The structures of the neutral features and application fe atures are developed using the object-oriented technique. The development o f the representation schemes and the corresponding algorithms are divided i nto box-shaped and non-box-shaped. Object-oriented messages for the mainten ance of both the box-shaped and non-box-shaped feature models are developed . The process of conversion from an application feature to neutral features is developed using the object-oriented technique; algorithms are implement ed in the form of object- oriented messages. The conversion from neutral fe atures to application features is handled by the rule-based reasoning appro ach.