Machine tool capability profile for intelligent process planning

An optimized metal cutting process plan can only be developed with an accurate capability profile of a machine tool. Based on the information within this profile, a manufacturing decision making process can ascertain the time and production cost of parts. In this paper, a standardized methodology for modelling manufacturing resources is realized to enable accurate representation of actual resources and custom constraints. An example case study demonstrates the application of the machine tool capability profile through the selection of available cutting tools rather than using nominal cutting tools.