CCKBS: A component check knowledge-based system for assessing manufacturability of sheet metal parts

This paper describes a knowledge-based system developed for assisting product designers, process planners and die designers working in small and medium sheet metal industries for assessing manufacturability of sheet metal parts. Knowledge obtained from die designers, product design handbooks, catalogues and broachers has been analyzed, tabulated and incorporated into a set of production rules of the IF–THEN variety. The knowledge-based system is coded in the AutoLISP language and loaded into the prompt area of AutoCAD. During consultation, the proposed system generates friendly prompt eliciting from the user for job related. The system output includes recommendations on the suitability of geometrical features of the part for required manufacturing operations. This arrangement facilitates interfacing of design with drafting and can be operated on a PC/AT. Illustrative examples have been included for demonstrating the usefulness of the proposed system. The knowledge base of the proposed system can be modified depending upon the capabilities of a specific shop floor. The low-cost of the system makes it affordable for planners working in small and medium-sized enterprises.