A tree-based decision method for the configuration design of reconfigurable machine tools

Abstract

A reconfigurable machine tool (RMT) can repeatedly be configured to respond to a wide range of requirements (such as a change in function or capacity) in a cost-effective manner. One of the challenges in RMT reconfiguration is the high complexity of the modular configuration due to customization. Furthermore, the possible design space may be enormous as the number of modules increases. Hence, an effective way to describe the diverse configurations of an RMT and evaluate its performance is needed.In this paper, we propose a tree-based method to determine the configuration design for reconfiguration of an RMT. The method includes: 1) defining a computational common model for a reconfigurable machine tool configuration using a tree structure, 2) identifying concepts that combine the desired function and capability, and 3) determining those concepts which satisfy two goals: minimizing cost and maximizing reconfigurability.The proposed method is illustrated by designing an RMT for a transmission box for three different production scenarios: the RMT initial operation, a change in operational features and a change in operational quantity. The benefit of using the proposed method is its improved functionality.