Generation of machine configurations based on product features

A computer-aided process planning (CAPP) and machine assignment system, capable of coping with the changes in products and system, are required for reconfigurable manufacturing systems (RMS) or other dynamic manufacturing environments. The capabilities of the machines and manufacturing systems in RMS change with each configuration. An approach is presented for selecting the different types of machine(s) and their appropriate configurations to produce different types of parts and features, according to the required machine capabilities. The structure of the machine tool is represented in a kinematic chain-like format that captures the number, type and order of different axes of motion on both the tool or workpiece side for the machine. The proposed method is illustrated with an example. More than one minimum machine configuration may be generated for a single-operation cluster, which increases the flexibility in machine tool selection. The developed approach is general in nature and not limited to RMS. It is applicable to any manufacturing system where dynamic and flexible process planning and machine assignments are required. It could serve as an important tool in aiding the machine assignment/selection and process planning activities at the initial stages of manufacturing systems design and subsequent changes in products scope, and facilities expansion, downsizing and modication.