A knowledge-based system for strip layout design

Abstract

Strip layout design is a task that is dependent on the experience of designers. It normally takes several years of exposure and on-the-job training in the tool and die industry before a fresh designer has acquired the basics of strip layout design and is competent in doing his own design. Once acquired, this valuable expertise, which is not found in literature or texts, can be easily lost or “taken away” when the designer leaves the industry. Hence, there is a need to capture and retain this knowledge for future application and development purposes. This paper presents an experimental knowledge-based consultation system developed for the purpose of capturing strip layout design knowledge. The system is developed using Expertech's XI-Plus shell package for stamping processes like piercing, blanking, bending and trimming. The knowledge of these processes is acquired from interviews with experienced die designers. Besides standardization and documentation of design knowledge, the system also aims to train and aid new designers in doing their own design. A description of the system's basic framework necessary for representing the expert knowledge is given. The knowledge and design rules that are being used in the system are also illustrated and explained and finally a sample test run of the system is shown.