An Automated Hierarchical Process Planning System

Published

April 28, 2000

Author(s)

Thomas R. Kramer, Hui-Min Huang, Elena R. Messina, Frederick M. Proctor, Harry A. Scott

Abstract

This paper describes an automated hierarchical process planning system for machining and inspecting discrete parts in an RCS type control system. The system integrates planning with control of a 3-axis machining center and a coordinate measuring machine. The system makes plans for three hierarchical levels of control, focused in turn on (1) making an entire part, (2) doing the work that may be done in a single machine setup, and (3) machining and/or inspecting a single feature. A two-stage planning paradigm is followed at each hierarchical level. The ALPS process planning language is used to express stage-one plans at the upper two levels of the control hierarchy. Manufacturing features are defined by STEP AP224. STEP methods and information models are used throughout the system. Process planning decisions at all three levels are supported by a solid modeling server.

Proceedings Title

ICRA 2000 Conference

Conference Dates

April 24-28, 2000

Conference Title

ICRA Conference

Pub Type

Conferences

Keywords

control, feature, hierarchical, inspection, machining, NIST, planning, process planning, STEP

Citation

Kramer, T. , Huang, H. , Messina, E. , Proctor, F. and Scott, H. (2000), An Automated Hierarchical Process Planning System, ICRA 2000 Conference (Accessed March 10, 2026)