University
of Durham, UK
Abstract:
The vast majority of research and commercial efforts in Computer-Automated
Process Planning (CAPP) relate to the detailed optimisation of process
parameters at machine level. In this process, considerable advances were made in
terms of feature based design and planning and the further development of the
Design for Manufacturing/Assembly concepts. This paper discusses the industrial
requirements and corresponding research priorities for new generation CAPP
functionality that will focus on early design evaluation. New, product data
management systems, advanced tolerance management and 3D process modelling tools
are now mature enough to support new CAPP functionality that goes beyond the
present level. The early design evaluation using CAPP functions will benefit
industry in terms of; (i) the moderation of realization risk for complex
products, (ii) the rapid evaluation of manufacturing technology options in
process-intensive environments and, (iii) the combined optimisation of product
structure and processing requirements for products with short life cycles.
Key
words: Design, CAPP, Product
Development.