Automatic feature-based process planning for sheet metal parts

Developments in computer aided process planning have long lagged behind the computerization advancements of design and manufacturing. The gap that an immature CAPP leaves between CAD and CAM threatens the entire CIM enterprise by denying the higher product quality, lower cost and reduced time to market CIM promises. An automated process planning system to bridge this gap for sheet metal parts is presented. The research is part of the $ProMod-S$ project of the Automation and Robotics Laboratory of the University of Massachusetts Amherst. The system uses a feature based model for part representation. Manufacturing knowledge is used to guide process selection. Using a hierarchical planning approach, sub-plans and precedences are generated and synthesized into feasible process plans. Genetic algorithms are employed to find a near optimal process plan