A prototype of a feature-based multiple-alternative process planning system with scheduling verification

The primary objective of this research was to develop a prototype feature-b ased multiple-alternative process planning system in which the process plan would be generated directly from design and available factory facility inf ormation. An overall removable volume is generated by graphically comparing the 3D part and 3D workpiece blank. The manufacturing features are decompo sed into a series of general manufacturing features by using a mixed graph- based and rule-based algorithm. The multiple-alternative process plan gener ation is based on recognized manufacturing features and various production rules. After generating multiple process plans, each process plan is alloca ted the possible manufacturing scheduling time and the candidate process pl ans are retrieved based on the required due day. An example problem is pres ented to illustrate the functionality of the prototype system. This researc h presents an alternative method that provides useful information to the fa ctory planner and controller to facilitate production. (C) 2001 Elsevier Sc ience Ltd. All rights reserved.