A hybrid expert-neural-based function model for CAPP

Abstract

One of the important activities in computer integrated manufacturing (CIM) is computer aided process planning (CAPP). Although many CAPP systems have been reported in the literature, very few of them have actually been used in practice. This is largely due to the complex and dynamic nature of the process planning task, and the difficulties associated with representing and manipulating the required knowledge. In this paper, a hybrid expert-neural-based CAPP intelligent function model (CAPPIFM) and its detailed architecture are presented. Such a model is designed on the basis of the experience gained in developing an integrated CAPP system called SIP which is supported by the National 863 High Technology Plan of China. Indeed, the model provides an effective means for achieving an intelligent, dynamic, parallel and distributed integration of the CAPP system with the other systems in the CIM environment. © 1997 Taylor & Francis Ltd.