Automatic Extraction of Machining Features from Prismatic Parts using STEP for Downstream Applications

Research on computer integrated design and manufacture based on feature extraction (FE) so far has been largely focused on finding all or some possible features, and the task of manufacturing analysis is shifted to process planners. In this paper an attempt has been made to propose a system of FE for 3D components to automate planning activities in a computer integrated manufacturing environment. The FE identifies machining features in a generic manner, while feature reasoning gives the information required for manufacturing, taking 3D model data in standard for exchange of product data format as input to the FE system. To further support the development of generic FE algorithms it is proposed that neutral files be used as a common starting to eliminate problems associated with applying FE techniques to legacy CAD models. Neutral files can remove the effects of modelling practice and specific aspects of CAD software that can change the hierarchical history of the part without altering the geometry. © 2015, The Institution of Engineers (India).