An integrated process planning system using feature reasoning and space search-based optimization

In this paper we describe the architecture of a new integrated process planning system, called 3I-PP, which is composed of three modules: feature completion, process selection, and process sequencing. We have applied a knowledge-based approach to feature completion and process selection, and the space search algorithm for process sequencing. The resulting process planning system provides for both upstream and downstream integration of CAPP with CAD and scheduling systems, respectively. Description of the methodologies and procedures is provided and some experimental results that demonstrate the system performance are presented.