Abstract CAD/CAM systems are nowadays tightly connected
to ensure that CAD data can be used for optimal
tool path determination and generation of CNC programs
for machine tools. The aim of our research is the design of a
computer-aided, intelligent and genetic algorithm(GA) based
programming system for CNC cutting tools selection, tool sequences
planning and optimisation of cutting conditions. The
first step is geometrical feature recognition and classification.
On the basis of recognised features the module for GA-based
determination of technological data determine cutting tools,
cutting parameters (according to work piece material and
cutting tool material) and detailed tool sequence planning.
Material, which will be removed, is split into several cuts,
each consisting of a number of basic tool movements. In the
next step, GA operations such as reproduction, crossover and
mutation are applied. The process of GA-based optimisation
runs in cycles in which new generations of individuals are
created with increased average fitness of a population. During
the evaluation of calculated results (generated NC programmes)
several rules and constraints like rapid and cutting
tool movement, collision, clamping and minimum machining
time, which represent the fitness function, were taken into
account.
A case study was made for the turning operation of a rotational
part. The results show that the GA-based programming
J. Balic (B) · B. Vaupotic
Faculty of Mechanical Engineering,
Laboratory for Intelligent Manufacturing,
University of Maribor,
Smetanova 17, SI-2000, Maribor, Slovenia
e-mail: joze.balic@uni-mb.si
M. Kovacic
Store Steel company,
Zelezarska 3, SI-3220 Store, Slovenia
has a higher efficiency. The total machining time was reduced
by 16%. The demand for a high skilled worker on CAD/CAM
systems and CNC machine tools was also reduced.