Abstract
In recent years, features have been introduced in modeling and planning for manufacturing of parts. Such features combine geometric and functional information. Here it is shown that the feature concept is also useful in assembly modeling and planning. For modeling and planning of both single parts and assemblies, an integrated object-oriented product model is introduced. For specific assembly-related information, assembly features are used. Handling features contain information for handling components, connection features information on connections between components. A prototype modeling environment has been developed. The product model has been successfully verified within several analysis and planning modules, in particular stability analysis, grip planning, motion planning and assembly sequence planning. Altogether, feature-based product models for assembly can considerably help in both assembly modeling and planning, on the one hand by integrating single-part and assembly modeling, and on the other hand by integrating modeling and planning.
Reprinted from Robotics
and Computer Integrated Manufacturing, Vol. 16, Winfried van Holland and
Willem F. Bronsvoort, Assembly features in modeling and planning, pp. 277-294,
© 2000, with permission from Elsevier Science.
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van Holland W and Bronsvoort WF (2000), Assembly features in modeling and planning. Robotics and Computer Integrated Manufacturing, vol. 16, no. 4, pp. 277-294.