An intelligent system for selection of die-set of metal stamping press tool

Die-set selection is an important activity in the process of press tool design. Traditional methods of optimal selection of the die-set involve numerous calculations and decisions based on experience and practice codes. This paper describes an intelligent system for selection of die-set of metal stamping press tool. A production rule based expert system approach has been utilized to develop an intelligent die-set selection system (IDSS) to assists die designers. This system comprises of two modules, namely DIESETSEL for selection of type of die-set and DSDIM for determination of its dimensions. The system IDSS is coded in AutoLISP language and loaded into the prompt area of AutoCAD. This arrangement facilitates interfacing of design with drafting and can be operated on a PC/AT. For consultation, the system generates friendly prompts eliciting from the user data pertaining to the job at hand. The system output includes recommendations on the kind of die-set and its appropriate dimensions suitable for the job. Illustrative examples demonstrate the usefulness of the proposed system. The knowledge base of the proposed system can be modified depending upon the capabilities of a specific shop floor and advances in new technology. The low cost of the system makes it affordable to planners working in small and medium-sized enterprises. (c) 2005 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.