A pilot framework developed as a common platform integrating diverse elements of computer aided fixture design

In the present study, an integrated computer-aided engineering platform has been developed for fixture design. Different computer aids needed for an automated fixture design system include geometrical modelling, finite element analysis, specialised mathematical tools, such as screw theory, and also artificial intelligence routines. It has been illustrated through several examples that the Python environment is a capable candidate to be employed for developing an integrated platform capable of providing these computer-aided tools. For this purpose, different specialised modules were developed, including a CAD system for geometrical modelling of workpiece, a mathematical analysis module for designing the locating system by using the screw theory, a FEM module being employed for support system design and an expert fixture planning module. The developed platform has also been examined for its capability to be interfaced with existing commercial CAD, FEM and expert system programmes.