Computer aided fixture design: Using information intensive function models in the development of automated fixture design systems

Abstract

In this paper, the development of an Information Intensive Function Model (IIFM) of fixture design activities is discussed. This function model was developed using the IDEF-0 (Integrated Definition) methodology and was built primarily after interacting with expert fixture designers. In addition, knowledge from fixture design, tool design, and metalcutting handbooks and from journal papers was used to lend a holistic flavor to the developed IDEF-0 model. An IDEF-0 modeling software tool, AIO Win®, was used to build this model at various levels of decomposition. This paper also discusses the importance of IIFMs in the current and future design of Computer Aided Fixture Design (CAFD) systems.