Machining fixture layout design using ant colony algorithm based continuous optimization method

In any machining fixture, the workpiece elastic deformation caused during machining influences the dimensional and form errors of the workpiece. Placing each locator and clamp in an optimal place can minimize the elastic deformation of the workpiece, which in turn minimizes the dimensional and form errors of the workpiece. Design of fixture configuration (layout) is a procedure to establish the workpiece–fixture contact through optimal positioning of clamping and locating elements. In this paper, an ant colony algorithm (ACA) based discrete and continuous optimization methods are applied for optimizing the machining fixture layout so that the workpiece elastic deformation is minimized. The finite element method (FEM) is used for determining the dynamic response of the workpiece caused due to machining and clamping forces. The dynamic response of the workpiece is simulated for all ACA runs. This paper proves that the ACA-based continuous fixture layout optimization method exhibits the better results than that of ACA-based discrete fixture layout optimization method.