A semi-generative approach to computer-aided process planning using group technology

Computer-Aided Process Planning (CAPP) has a key role in Computer-Integrated Manufacturing (CIM) as an interface between design and manufacturing. This paper reports on a research effort that had as a major thrust the demonstration that a correctly designed Group Technology (GT) part coding scheme can assist in generating the sequence of machine operations for making the part. To exemplify the approach, a 14-digit chain-structured GT code was designed to capture the part features for the most common rotational/gear part shapes using DCLASS information processing trees. The GT code was then processed to generate process plan using a semi-generative CAPP approach that integrates sets of machining operations for part basic shapes and form features. The results have shown promising perspectives of GT applications in CAPP.