Multi-objective optimal fixture layout design in a discrete domain

Addresses a major issue in fixture layout design: to evaluate the acceptable fixture designs based on several quality criteria and to select an optimal fixture appropriate with practical demands. The performance objectives considered are related to the fundamental requirements of kinematic localization and total fixturing (form-closure) and are defined as the workpiece localization accuracy and the norm and distribution of the locator contact forces. An efficient interchange algorithm is used in a multiple-criteria optimization process for different practical cases, leading to proper trade-off strategies for performing fixture synthesis