A virtual design system for sheet metal forming

The design and manufacturing process contains a critical step where part features and specifications are converted into actual objects. Decisions made at this point, concerning such parameters as which manufacturing process to use and how to modify the design to work with that process, greatly effect the ultimate cost, utility, and production time for a product. Currently, there are many different methods of assisting the designer, ranging from simple design rule packages to Very sophisticated expert systems. However, many of these systems are extremely application specific and lack interfaces with simulations and real-time manufacturing capabilities. This research is focused on developing a new system that combines an expert system with manufacturing process simulations and real-time manufacturing: the Virtual Design System (VDS). The VDS for sheet metal forming is implemented in a novel way. The World Wide Web is used as the platform for the VDS, and it offers several advantages to the conventional stand-alone approach. Users are not limited to a specific platform or location, and maintenance of the system is considerably simplified. Also, this interface allows designers to instantly transfer their completed designs to the shop floor, saving time and allowing the manufacturer to compete for jobs on a global, rather than regional, basis. (C) 1998 Elsevier Science S.A. All rights reserved.