A GA-based approach to machining operation sequencing for prismatic parts

This paper presents a study of using a genetic algorithm (GA) method to select the machining operation sequence for prismatic parts. Four types of process planning rules - including precedence rules, clustering rules, adjacent order rules and optimization rules - are considered and are encompassed quantitatively in the fitness calculations for alternative operation sequences. The impact of variations of the rules on the result of operation sequencing and that of GA parameters on the solution efficiency are discussed through analysis of examples and experiments. The proposed genetic algorithm proves effective for machining operation sequencing of prismatic parts, by incorporating various production environment considerations into process planning.