Modeling and analysis of flexible fixturing systems for agile manufacturing

Manufacturing systems must provide flexibility and rapid response to market demands. Flexible fixturing is a key technology in the integration of agile manufacturing systems and the lack of effective flexible fixturing can be a significant obstacle to implementation. This paper highlights portions of our research dealing with fixturing systems for agile manufacturing. We apply the spatial point contact constraint theory to develop a mathematical model of flexible fixturing systems. The process of locating and clamping by fixturing systems is described. A representation is obtain for the locating and clamping matrix. Conditions and criteria for a deterministic location, clamping total constraint, accessibility and detachability are obtained. Location errors for the workpiece-fixturing systems are analyzed and the error gain matrix is derived. Illustrative examples are shown using this methodology