Computer-aided manufacturing planning for mass customization

This paper introduces a comprehensive system for the production planning of mass customization of non-rotational parts. Combined features are defined based on the concept of part families. The process parameters are associated with the feature parameters so that rapid production planning can be achieved for product design changes. Setup planning is carried out based on both the best practice knowledge in industry and the algorithmic generation of setups. Manufacturing resource, fixture design, and tolerance issues are considered in the production planning. The system also estimates cycle times and generates standard documentation.