Shape models in computer integrated manufacture-a review

Existing computer-aided manufacturing systems are based on models of shape tailored to a particular process. Computer integrated manufacture involves many different processes, and hence requires more complete models of components or assemblies. This can be provided by solid modelling techniques extended to include extra data related to manufacture such as form features and tolerances. These developments are being applied to many manufacturing processes, from casting to assembly, but profound questions remain concerning both the structure and the use of shape models in manufacture