AN EXPERT-SYSTEM FOR FIXTURING DESIGN FOR FACE MILLING USING MODULAR FIXTURE

The research objective of this paper is to develop an expert system for a modular fixture. We provide a complete fixturing procedure analysis for workpieces with different shapes such as L, I, T, and U types. In this system AutoCAD is used to draw the workpiece; then the data for points, lines, and faces are dealt with. Using the knowledge presentation method, the clamping position of the modular fixtures, the kinematics constraint balance and the fixture and cutting forces are determined. Integer programming is used to arrive at an optimal arrangement. In addition, the system provides a learning concept incorporating knowledge from experience and heuristic rules to enable repeated self-learning to compensate for the lack of knowledge. Finally, some examples are demonstrated.