This paper describes a hybrid system which endeavours to recognize machinin
g features automatically from a boundary representation (b-rep)-based solid
modeller. The graph-based approach and the volume approach are adopted in
consecutive stages in a prototype feature recognition system to combine the
positive aspects of both strategies. The graph-based approach is based on
feature edge sequence (FES) graph, a new graph structure introduced in this
system. The FES graph approach is used to extract primitive features from
the three-dimensional solid model; and the volume decomposition approach is
incorporated to generate multiple interpretations of the feature sets. In
addition, a neural network (NN) based technique is used to tackle the probl
em of nonorthogonal and arbitrary features. Using the hybrid system, a work
piece designed in b-rep solid modeller will be interpreted and represented
by a set of primitive features attached with significant manufacturing para
meters, including multiple interpretations, tool directions and machining s
equences, etc. The overall hybrid system is able to transform a pure geomet
ric model into a machining feature-based model which is directly applicable
for downstream manufacturing applications.