Software development and integration in a computer supported cooperative work environment

This paper presents a prototype computer supported cooperative work (CSCW) environment that supports the engineering design process. In particular, this environment provides collaborative tools that support computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided software engineering (CASE). This paper takes an high level look at the system as a whole and then focuses on the method used to implement the CASE support. It addresses how group members can simultaneously work on coding a program and then integrate their work to form a single program inside this environment. © 1998 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.     

Adding draft angles on mechanical components containing constant radius blending surfaces

The automation of mould design and manufacturing using computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) draws the attention of many researchers. However, little attention is given to the automation of draft angles addition process. Draft angle is an important feature that facilitates the ejection of moulded parts. Existing algorithms for draft angles addition are still having limitations, especially for geometry with blending surfaces. A new approach for draft angles addition is introduced. It reduces the workload of users by automatically producing inclination on surfaces that require draft angles.     

Dynamic planning model for determining cutting parameters using neural networks in feature-based process planning

Although feature-based computer-aided process planning plays a vital role in automating and integrating design and manufacturing for efficient production, its off-line properties prohibit the shop floor controllers from rapidly coping with unexpected production errors. The objective of the paper is to suggest a neural network-based dynamic planning model, by which the shop floor controllers determine cutting parameters in real-time based on shop floor status. At off-line is the dynamic planning model constructed as a neural network form, and then embedded into each removal feature. The dynamic planning model will be executed by the shop floor controllers to determine the cutting parameters. A prototype system is constructed to validate whether the dynamic planning model is capable of determining dynamically and efficiently the cutting parameters for a particular set of shop operating factors. Owing to the dynamic planning model, the shop floor controller will increase flexibility and robustness by rapidly and adaptively determining the cutting parameters in unexpected errors occurring.     

Visibility-based conformal cooling channel generation for rapid tooling

In plastic injection moulding process, cooling channel design is an essential factor that affects the quality of the moulded parts and the productivity of the process. Non-uniform cooling or long cooling cycle time would result if a poorly designed cooling channel is adopted. Due to limitations of traditional machining processes, the cooling channel is usually formed from straight-line drilled holes and only simple shapes are allowed, regardless of the shape complexity of the part being moulded. With the advent of rapid tooling technology, cooling channels in complex shapes can now be possible. However, there are not many design methodologies for supporting this type of cooling channel. In this paper, a methodology called visibility-based cooling channel generation is proposed for automatic preliminary cooling channel design for rapid tooling. The cooling process between a mould surface and a cooling channel is considered analogous to whether they can be visible from each other. Without loss of generality, the mould surface is approximated by a polyhedral terrain and is normally offset. A number of point light sources together that can illuminate the whole polyhedral terrain are assigned to suitable terrain offset vertices. A cooling channel is then generated by connecting all the assigned light sources. When comparing the conventional verification and redesign methods by melt flow analysis, computer-aided design and, a better design of cooling channel for its mould surface results in a short time independent of the experience of mould engineer.     

Model and algorithm for computer-aided inventive problem analysis

The paper presents the research activity developed by the authors in the field of computer-aided inventive problem solving: an original model and a dialogue-based software application have been developed by integrating the logic of ARIZ (Algorithm for the Inventive Problem Solving) with some OTSM-TRIZ (General Theory of Powerful Thinking) models in order to guide a user also with no TRIZ education to the analysis of inventive problems. The paper demonstrates that through a dialogue-based interaction it is possible to guide the user towards a proper formulation of the problem statement, which is an essential step of any conceptual design activity. The proposed software system, although still at a prototype stage, has been tested with students at Politecnico di Milano and at the University of Florence. The paper details the structure of the algorithm and the results of the first validation activity; then, it discusses about the possibility to integrate the proposed approach into a new generation of CAD systems.     

Knowledge-based system for collaborative process specification

This paper presents an ontology-based approach for the design of a collaborative business process model (CBP). This CBP is considered as a specification of needs in order to build a collaboration information system (CIS) for a network of organizations. The study is a part of a model-driven engineering approach of the CIS in a specific enterprise interoperability framework that will be summarised. An adaptation of the Business Process Modelling Notation (BPMN) is used to represent the CBP model. We develop a knowledge-based system (KbS) which is composed of three main parts: knowledge gathering, knowledge representation and reasoning, and collaborative business process modelling. The first part starts from a high abstraction level where knowledge from business partners is captured. A collaboration ontology is defined in order to provide a structure to store and use the knowledge captured. In parallel, we try to reuse generic existing knowledge about business processes from the MIT Process Handbook repository. This results in a collaboration process ontology that is also described. A set of rules is defined in order to extract knowledge about fragments of the CBP model from the two previous ontologies. These fragments are finally assembled in the third part of the KbS. A prototype of the KbS has been developed in order to implement and support this approach. The prototype is a computer-aided design tool of the CBP. In this paper, we will present the theoretical aspects of each part of this KbS as well as the tools that we developed and used in order to support its functionalities.     

Feature-based modeling for automatic mesh generation

Automatic meshing algorithms for finite element analysis are based on a computer understanding of the geometry of the part to be discretized. Current mesh generators understand the part as either a boundary representation, an octree, or a point set. A higher-level understanding of the part can be achieved by associating engineering significance and engineering data, such as loading and boundary conditions, with generic shapes in the part. This technique, called feature-based modeling, is a popular approach to integrating computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided manufacturing through the use of machinable shapes in the CAD model. It would seem that feature-based design also could aid in the finite element mesh generation process by making engineering information explicit in the model.This paper describes an approach to feature-based mesh generation. The feature representation of a fully functioning feature-based system that does automatic process planning and inspection was extended to include finite element mesh generation. This approach is based on a single feature representation that can be used for design, finite element analysis, process planning, and inspection of prismatic parts. The paper describes several advantages that features provide to the meshing process, such as improved point sets and a convenient method of simplifying the geometry of the model. Also discussed are possible extensions to features to enhance the finite element meshing process.     

基于三维模型的机车制动盘瞬态温度场仿真

该文运用有限元软件ANSYS7建立了某机车制动盘的三维循环对称有限元模型.讨论了边界条件和各种相关参数的确定方法,尤其是机车整个制动过程中制动盘换热系数的计算方法.同时进行了三维瞬态温度场计算仿真,给出了典型时刻温度场分布云图.仿真结果显示：在制动开始阶段,制动盘迅速升温,高温区集中在制动盘摩擦面表层,最高温度达220OC;制动过程结束后,整个制动盘有一段较长时间的降温过程.仿真结果与实验数据相符,证明了该三维有限元模型及其温度场计算方法的正确性.     

An integrated manufacturing system for rapid tooling based on rapid prototyping

To reduce the time and cost of moulds fabrication, a novel integrated developing and manufacturing system of rapid tooling (RT) based on rapid prototyping (RP) is proposed. The architecture of system which consists of four building blocks: digital prototype, virtual prototype (VP), physical prototype and RT system, is presented. A digital prototype can be established by 3D CAD software packages or reveres engineering technique. A VP is employed to guide in optimization of the mould design and manufacturing process planning. A physical prototype, which is built using RP technology, generally serves as a pattern for producing RT. By integrating these building blocks closely, the system can aid effectively in mould design, analysis, prototyping, simulating, and manufacturing process development. Three typical cases are discussed in detail to illustrate the application of the system. It has been shown from a number of case studies that the system has a high potential to reduce further the cycle and cost of die development while minimizing error introduction. As a result, the integrated system provides a feasible and useful tool for companies to speed up their product development.     

An integrated fixture planning and analysis system for machining processes

Fixture planning is an important part of computer-aided process planning (CAPP), which is the link between design and manufacturing in a CIM environment. This paper presents a rational approach to computer-assisted fixture planning (CAFP), emphasizing integration of fixture planning with process planning, an issue that has not been adequately addressed until very recently. A systematic approach to fixture selection is outlined for planning of modular fixtures. A prototype CAPP-CAFP system has been developed at UCLA and linked to a commercial CAD system, namely, CADAM. Part design information can be extracted from the CAD model and multiple-view engineering drawings of a part stored in the CADAM system. Modular fixture elements can be selected automatically by the CAPP-CAFP system and the generated fixture layout can be displayed on the screen. Included also in the system is a fixture analysis module for verification and rationalization of a fixturing scheme. The force analysis module has a built-in local optimization routine that can determine the clamping forces of more reasonable magnitudes. The friction forces between the fixture and the workpiece can also be considered for simple cases.     

Computer-aided prototyping for a command-and-control system usingCAPS

A case study that shows the feasibility of using computer-aided prototyping to validate a C³I system's requirements is presented, and the enabling technology is described. The C³I prototype developed has characteristics typical of embedded software, including distributed processing, hard real-time constraints, multiple, predefined hardware interfaces, and complex requirements. A color, multiwindow executable Ada prototype that can process tactical data from multiple interfaces in real time was generated. The prototype was used to get feedback about the proposed design's effectiveness, performance, and structure and to evaluate the soundness of the design decisions     

The generation of airframe finite element models using an expert system

This paper presents an expert system-based procedure for the creation of airframe finite element models from the geometric model available in a computer-aided design system. The objectives of the approach presented is the computerization of a process that is currently carried out in a semimanual manner, include previous modeling knowledge into the system, and provide a clear path for an ever-increasing level of automation in the process of creating analysis models for this class of structure. A main feature of the system developed is the combined use of algorithmic procedures and expert knowledge operating on data provided by previously run design software to produce an entirely different form of model to be used as input to a numerical analysis.     

Fuzzy-set-based approach for concurrent constraint set-up planning

Material removal processes are integral parts of many manufacturing systems. They are either primary machining processes or an important part of preparing toolings for subsequent forming and moulding processes. Manufacturing process planning identifies the type of material removal processes and the machining parameters, cutting tools and fixtures needed to generate the features on a part. Previous research in manufacturing process planning has concentrated mainly on the role of features, in the derivation of the associated process and fixture plans. Many computer-aided process planning (CAPP) and computer-aided fixture planning (CAFP) systems derive process and fixture plans from the features on a part, on the basis that these features are context-free. However, manufacturing operations are interdependent processes. In the author's computer-aided set-up planning (CASP) system, a different perspective is adopted. Feature relations form the core of the conceptual structure. These features relations, which are often imprecise, are used in deriving set-up plans. The feature relations, which may be due to geometrical constraints, tolerance requirements, etc., are modelled using fuzzy sets and fuzzy relations. This paper presents the various feature relations considered in the present system and proposes a practical planning algorithm for set-up planning.     

Development of a CAD-based intelligent manufacturing system

This research proposes a CAD-based manufacturing system that embraces computer-aided design, design for manufacturing and assembly (DFMA), computer-aided process planning (CAPP), computer-aided assembly planning (CAAP), and vision-robot integration. The proposed system starts with the design of products using a commercial CAD software, Autocad. The design data is then extracted from the CAD database and organized into a standardized product model. Interface programs are used to translate the geometrical and topological information in the model into DFMA, CAPP, CAAP and vision image representations. Based on the results generated by the interface programs the applications using artificial intelligence techniques can automatically generate redesign advises, CNC part programs, assembly sequence and instructions for robots.     

A novel CACD/CAD/CAE integrated design framework for fiber-reinforced plastic parts

This work presents a novel CACD/CAD/CAE integrated framework for design, modeling, and optimization of fiber-reinforced plastic parts, which can greatly enhance the current design practice by realizing partial automation and multi-stage optimization. To support this framework, a new heterogeneous feature model (HFM) has been developed to model the fiber-reinforced objects and to be transferred between engineering modules. To be specific, the CACD (computer-aided conceptual design) module employs the level-set structure and material optimization to produce the initial design with thickness control, and also the initial HFM; the CAD (computer-aided design) module allows manual editing on the HFM to reflect various design intents; then, the injection molding CAE (computer-aided engineering) simulates the manufacturing process, and the response surface method (RSM) is applied to optimize the process parameters of gate location, injection flow rate, mold temperature and melt temperature, to approach the manufactured fiber orientation distribution close to the optimized result produced by the CACD module; besides, the structural analysis CAE module generates the mechanical performance result to support the CACD module, as well as to validate the final design. By applying this framework, the final structural design including the fiber orientation distribution, will perform better in mechanical properties, and consume less matrix and fiber materials; besides, the design maturity can be approached in shorter time. To prove the effectiveness, a plastic gripper design will be comprehensively studied.     

Manufacturing planning and predictive process model integration using software agents

Intelligent agents provide a means to integrate various manufacturing software applications. The agents are typically executed in a computer-based collaborative environment, referred to as a multi-agent system. The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has developed a prototype multi-agent system supporting the integration of manufacturing planning, predictive machining models, and manufacturing control. The agents within this platform have access to a knowledge base, a manufacturing resource database, a numerical control programming system, a mathematical equation solving system, and a computer-aided design system. Intelligence has been implemented within the agents in rules that are used for process planning, service selection, and job execution. The primary purposes for developing such a platform are to support the integration of predictive models, process planning, and shop floor machining activities and to demonstrate an integration framework to enable the use of machining process knowledge with higher-level manufacturing applications.     

Digital twin enhanced fault prediction for the autoclave with insufficient data

Since any faulty operations could directly affect the composite property, making early prognosis is particularly crucial for complex equipment. At present, data-driven approach has been typically used for fault prediction. However, for part of complex equipment, it is difficult to access reliable and sufficient data to train the fault prediction model. To address this issue, this paper takes autoclave as an example. A Digital Twin (DT) model containing multiple dimensions for the autoclave is firstly constructed and verified. Then the characteristics of autoclave under different conditions are analyzed and presented with specific parameters. The data in normal and faulty conditions are simulated by using the DT model. Both the simulated data and extracted historical data are applied to enhance fault prediction. A convolutional neural network for fault prediction will be trained with the generated data which matches the feature of the autoclave in faulty conditions. The effectiveness of the proposed method is verified through result analysis.     

注塑件CAD建模与CAE智能处理的集成化研究

CAD／CAE技术的集成化研究是当前的一个研究热点，对于注塑件／模而言，CAD信息向CAE传输中存在信息丢失和少智能问题，而CAE的结果向CAD信息的反馈过程中也存在信息缺乏衔接和少智能化的问题，利用CBR（基于事件的推理）对工艺参数进行智能推理，然后结合推理出的参数值以及CAD中过滤出的信息，输入到CAE进行分析，对CAD中的特征信息与CAE后处理的信息进行合理的匹配，建立对后处理结果的缺陷解释专家系统。重点对工艺参数优选的CBR及后处理的专家解释系统和数据流的流动过程进行了深入的研究，提出CAD／CAE并行环思想，从而方便了注塑件特征造型与CAE智能处理的集成。     

基于UG二次开发的卫生陶瓷坐便器产品CAD系统

在分析坐便器等卫生陶瓷产品结构和研发过程的基础上,建立了其产品CAD系统的整体架构和产品设计流程,运用UG/OPEN KF实现了设计参数的集成,采用NURBS曲线和组合曲线作为特征控制曲线构建特征模型,解决了产品多样性、参数化特征相关及模型修改等关键技术问题.以通用CAD软件UG为平台,运用VC 和UG/OPEN进行二次开发,建立了卫生陶瓷坐便器产品的CAD系统.该系统可实现产品的快速设计,对提高产品研发能力有重要意义.     

The TAME project: towards improvement-oriented softwareenvironments

Experience from a dozen years of analyzing software engineering processes and products is summarized as a set of software engineering and measurement principles that argue for software engineering process models that integrate sound planning and analysis into the construction process. In the TAME (Tailoring A Measurement Environment) project at the University of Maryland, such an improvement-oriented software engineering process model was developed that uses the goal/question/metric paradigm to integrate the constructive and analytic aspects of software development. The model provides a mechanism for formalizing the characterization and planning tasks, controlling and improving projects based on quantitative analysis, learning in a deeper and more systematic way about the software process and product, and feeding the appropriate experience back into the current and future projects. The TAME system is an instantiation of the TAME software engineering process model as an ISEE (integrated software engineering environment). The first in a series of TAME system prototypes has been developed. An assessment of experience with this first limited prototype is presented including a reassessment of its initial architecture