A feature-extraction-based process-planning system

This paper presents an automatic features-extraction and process-planning system using the STEP AP214 file as neutral design data format. A framework is proposed to support integration of CAPP with CAD system. After analyzing the STEP AP214 file, a method for extracting the basic features of part from STEP AP214 of 3D model is proposed. The combination rules of basic features are then studied by identifying feature relationships. Also, an approach to processing tolerance information is proposed by utilizing the CAD system’s self-provided functions of macro recording and editing. Finally, based on the proposed approach, the FEB process-planning system prototype was developed employing the knowledge-based approach and an example is presented to illustrate demonstrate and verify the system.