Object-oriented and fuzzy-set-based approach for set-up planning

Set-up planning is not only a key element of computer-aided process planning (CAPP), but also a key factor for the integration of CAPP with computer-aided fixture planning (CAFP) and production planning and scheduling (PPS). In this work, an object-oriented and fuzzy-set-based approach is developed for set-up planning. Object-oriented technology is employed to represent set-up planning knowledge and generate alternative set-ups which can respond to the dynamic manufacturing resource and facilitate the CAPP/PPS integration. Based on fuzzy-set theory, a fuzzy evaluation function is proposed to produce optimal set-ups. Combined with a real project, a set-up planning system is developed to generate alternative and optimal set-up plans for the machining of prismatic parts.