Hierarchical object-oriented model (HOOM) for additive manufacturing digital thread

Abstract

Additive manufacturing (AM) is a high-valued production application for the manufacture of functional parts. Despite significant advances in the AM field, numerous challenges remain regarding the integration of AM processes into a complete, generic, and adaptive digital thread based on standards. These challenges hinder the adoption of AM in traditional manufacturing companies. In this context, this study proposes a methodology for the development of a new AM digital chain model, named the Hierarchical Object-Oriented Model (HOOM). The HOOM is based entirely on object-oriented modeling that uses a collection of objects containing stored values of the instance variables found within an object. It comprises seven levels from the product design stage to post-production and validation stages. In order to assess the HOOM, it was implemented and tested through the manufacture of two test parts in a complete high-level digital chain based on the Standard for the Exchange of Product model data compliant Numerical Control. Results from the application of the HOOM unique data structure demonstrated enhanced transparency, standardization, interoperability, scalability, and modularity of AM project data. Moreover, the HOOM was shown to enable bi-directional data flow and to support cloud manufacturing.