Feature-based geometric reasoning for process planning

We present a framework based on Domain Independent Form (DIF) features for automatic evaluation of manufacturability and process planning for machining. The framework enables interpretation of a common product model with respect to each task in the transition from design to manufacture. A key idea here is to generate the interpretation suitable for each task in two steps. In the first step, DIF features that are defined through feature enumeration are automatically extracted from the geometric model. The extracted DIF features are then mapped into features meaningful for individual tasks through geometric reasoning based on domain dependent knowledge. The formal approach to feature definitions and separation of the domain specific reasoning from the general geometric reasoning enable us to overcome the bottlenecks reported in features technology. Work reported in this paper has been funded in part by grants from Aeronautical Development Agency and the Department of Science and Technology.