Development of a CAPP system for prismatic parts using feature based design concepts

Abstract

A form feature based CAPP system for prismatic parts is presented. This system makes use of form features for component geometry description and process planning functions. Component geometry is described interactively by the user in terms of its shape and features to be machined. A user friendly (menu driven) interface is provided to reduce the time for creating a component database. At present the system includes the facilities for machine tool selection, set-up planning, tool selection and operation sequencing. The system provides an interactive tool selection module which maintains online dialogue with the user. For operation sequencing, feature interaction is taken into account to generate more consistent and optimum process plans. Since system design is base on the integrated database approach, many of the concepts used may be applicable to the present CAD/CAM systems and may prove useful in promoting the increased integration of CAD and CAM.