A knowledge-based system for process planning based on a solid modeller

Outlines the development of a process planning system using knowledge-based techniques with derivation of component geometric information from a three-dimensional solid modeller. The knowledge-based components of the system are centred on a production rule based expert system, coexisting with a nonlinear knowledge-based planning system. These are in turn coupled to a solid modeller via a geometric interface. The knowledge resident within the system operates on the geometry of the component to produce the planning and control data. The system is targetted at planning the manufacture of components with 2¹/ ₂-D geometries, using a three-axis machining centre, from rectilinear blanks