A low cost knowledge base system framework for progressive die design

This paper presents a low cost knowledge base system framework for progressive die design. The task of building the system is divided into different modules for major activities of progressive die design. Each module of the proposed framework is designed to interact with the user through the user interface. A procedure for developing knowledge base system modules is described at length. The rules of each module of the system are recommended to be coded in the AutoLISP language and loaded into the prompt area of AutoCAD. This arrangement facilitates interfacing of design process with modeling and can be operated on a PC/AT. For consultation, each module generates friendly prompts eliciting from the user data pertaining to the job. An important module DIEGAGE of proposed framework for the selection of die gages is designed by using the developed methodology. The output of this module includes recommendations on optimal dimensions of front spacer, back gage and distance between the die gages. An illustrative example is included for demonstrating the usefulness of the developed module DIEGAGE. The proposed system framework is flexible enough to accommodate new acquired knowledge for each module. The low cost of the system framework makes it affordable by small and medium size enterprises.