Conclusions
This paper proposed a new generic CAPP model as an
alternative to the traditional feature-based models. Geometric
and technological reasoning prepares the ground for planning by
generating elementary VPs, PEs, and accessibility relations with
the use of local, domain specific knowledge. While VPs are defined
by rules with much less assumptions towards geometry and
manufacturing processes, the proposed decomposition method
can be applied to mesh-type part models only. The selection of
resources, setups and operations, as well as their sequencing is
performed in a single plan synthesis phase, which is the key for
optimization and for generating essentially different plan alternatives.
All these developments have been made possible by
relying on the increased representation power and computational
efficiency of generic CAD modelling, geometric reasoning and
combinatorial optimization techniques.
The CAPP model can account for other geometric entities like
holes and slots, and consider more than one cutting condition per
machine. Extension of the declarative model with additional