A framework for the integration of computer-aided design and computer-aided process planning

This paper gives a procedure for integrating Computer-Aided Design (CAD) and Computer-Aided Process Planning (CAPP) systems, a key step in integrating CAD to Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM). The three modules required for this integration are a genetic part definition data structure, a preprocessor, and a postprocessor: all three are discussed in some detail. An evaluation of a prototype demonstration system which successfully integrated IBM's CAD package (CADAM) to the United Technologies Computer Managed Process Planning (CMPP) software is discussed.