@article {18800, title = {A Geometric Algorithm for Finding the Largest Milling Cutter}, volume = {ISR; TR 2000-40}, year = {2000}, month = {2000///}, institution = {Institute for Systems Research, University of Maryland, College Park}, abstract = {In this paper, we describe a new geometric algorithm to determine the largest feasible cutter size for2-D milling operations to be performed using a single cutter. In particular:

1. We give a general definition of the problem as the task of covering a target region without interfering with anobstruction region. This definition encompasses the task of milling a general 2-D profile that includes bothopen and closed edges.

2. We discuss three alternative definitions of what it means for a cutter to be feasible, and explain which of thesedefinitions is most appropriate for the above problem.

3. We present a geometric algorithm for finding the maximal cutter for 2-D milling operations, and we show thatour algorithm is correct.}, keywords = {algorithms, computational geometry, computer aided manufacturing CAM, cutter selection, Manufacturing, Next-Generation Product Realization Systems, path planning}, url = {http://drum.lib.umd.edu//handle/1903/6137}, author = {Yao,Zhiyang and Gupta, Satyandra K. and Nau, Dana S.} } @article {18801, title = {A Geometric Algorithm for Multi-Part Milling Cutter Selection}, volume = {ISR; TR 2000-42}, year = {2000}, month = {2000///}, institution = {Institute for Systems Research, University of Maryland, College Park}, abstract = {Mass customization results in smaller batch sizes in manufacturing that require large numbers of setup and tool changes. The traditional process planning that generates plans for one part at a time is no longer applicable.

In this paper, we propose the idea of process planning for small batch manufacturing, i.e., we simultaneously consider multiple parts and exploit opportunities for sharing manufacturing resources such that the process plan will be optimized over the entire set of parts. In particular, we discuss a geometric algorithm for multiple part cutter selection in 2-1/2D milling operations.

We define the 2-1/2D milling operations as covering the target region without intersecting with the obstruction region. This definition allows us to handle the open edge problem. Based on this definition, we first discuss the lower and upper bond of cutter sizes that are feasible for given parts. Then we introduce the geometric algorithm to find the coverable area for a given cutter. Following that, we discuss the approach of considering cutter loading time and changing time in multiple cutter selection for multiple parts. We represent the cutter selection problem as shortest path problem and use Dijkstra{\textquoteright}s algorithm to solve it. By using this algorithm, a set of cutters is selected to achieve the optimum machining cost for multiple parts.

Our research illustrates the multiple parts process planning approach that is suitable for small batch manufacturing. At the same time, the algorithm given in this paper clarifies the 2-1/2D milling problem and can also help in cutter path planning problem.}, keywords = {algorithms, computer aided manufacturing CAM, cutter selection, Manufacturing, multi-part process planning, Next-Generation Product Realization Systems, OPTIMIZATION}, url = {http://drum.lib.umd.edu//handle/1903/6139}, author = {Yao,Zhiyang and Gupta, Satyandra K. and Nau, Dana S.} } @article {18863, title = {Selecting Flat End Mills for 2-1/2D Milling Operations}, volume = {ISR; TR 2000-41}, year = {2000}, month = {2000///}, institution = {Institute for Systems Research, University of Maryland, College Park}, abstract = {The size of milling cutter significantly affects the machining time. Therefore, in order to perform milling operations efficiently, we need to select a set of milling cutters with optimal sizes. It is difficult for human process planners to select the optimal or near optimal set of milling cutters due to complex geometric interactions among tools size, part shapes, and tool trajectories.

In this paper, we give a geometric algorithm to find the optimal cutters for 2-1/2D milling operations. We define the 2-1/2D milling operations as covering the target region without intersecting with the obstruction region. This definition allows us to handle the open edge problem. Based on this definition, we introduced the offsetting and inverse-offsetting algorithm to find the coverable area for a given cutter. Following that, we represent the cutter selection problem as shortest path problem and discuss the lower and upper bond of cutter sizes that are feasible for given parts. The Dijkstra{\textquoteright}s algorithm is used to solve the problem and thus a set of cutters is selected in order to achieve the optimum machining cost.

We believe the selection of optimum cutter combination can not only save manufacturing time but also help automatic process planning.}, keywords = {algorithms, computer aided manufacturing CAM, cutter selection, Manufacturing, Next-Generation Product Realization Systems}, url = {http://drum.lib.umd.edu//handle/1903/6138}, author = {Yao,Zhiyang and Gupta, Satyandra K. and Nau, Dana S.} } @conference {17386, title = {Supporting creativity with powerful composition tools for artifacts and performances}, booktitle = {Proceedings of the 33rd Annual Hawaii International Conference on System Sciences, 2000}, year = {2000}, month = {2000/01/04/7}, publisher = {IEEE}, organization = {IEEE}, abstract = {Modern software such as word processors, slide preparation/presentation tools, or music composition packages are designed to produce artifacts or performances. Now, some designers are expanding their goals to include creativity support into their software. This essay builds on the genex framework for creativity, which has four phases and eight activities. It focuses on the composition activity by considering tools to support initiation, revision, and evaluation. Some existing tools provide partial support that suggests ways in which to develop more ambitious low, middle, and high level tools. The goal is to enable more people to be more creative more of the time.}, keywords = {artifacts, Artificial intelligence, composition tools, Computer science, Context modeling, creativity, creativity support, Educational institutions, Information retrieval, Laboratories, Manufacturing, music composition, performances, Software design, software libraries, software tools, US Department of Transportation}, isbn = {0-7695-0493-0}, doi = {10.1109/HICSS.2000.926896}, author = {Shneiderman, Ben} } @article {18818, title = {Automated Manufacturability Analysis: A Survey}, volume = {ISR; TR 1995-14}, year = {1995}, month = {1995///}, institution = {Institute for Systems Research, University of Maryland, College Park}, abstract = {In the marketplace of the 21st century, there is no place for traditional {\textquoteleft}{\textquoteleft}over-the-wall{\textquoteright}{\textquoteright} communications between design and manufacturing. In order to {\textquoteleft}{\textquoteleft}design it right the very first time,{\textquoteright}{\textquoteright} designers must ensure that their products are both functional and easy to manufacture. Software tools have had some successes in reducing the barriers between design and manufacturing. Manufacturability analysis systems are emerging as one such tool---enabling identification of potential manufacturing problems during the design phase and providing suggestions to designers on how to eliminate them.

In this paper, we provide a survey of current state of the art in automated manufacturability analysis. We present the historical context in which this area has emerged and outline characteristics to compare and classify various systems. We describe the two dominant approaches to automated manufacturability analysis and overview representative systems based on their application domain. We describe support tools that enhance the effectiveness of manufacturability analysis systems. Finally, we attempt to expose some of the existing research challenges and future directions.

}, keywords = {manufacturability, Manufacturing, Solid modeling, Systems Integration Methodology}, url = {http://drum.lib.umd.edu//handle/1903/5609}, author = {Das,Diganta and Gupta, Satyandra K. and Regli,W. C. and Nau, Dana S.} } @mastersthesis {18816, title = {Automated Manufacturability Analysis of Machined Parts}, year = {1995}, month = {1995///}, school = {UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND, COLLEGE PARK}, abstract = {Because of pressing demands to reduce lead time and product cost, increasing research attention is being given to integration of engineering design and manufacturing. In this thesis, a systematic approach has been developed for computer-aided manufacturability analysis of machined parts. This approach can be used during design stages to improve the product quality from the manufacturing point of view.

Evaluating the manufacturability of a proposed design involves determining whether or not it is manufacturable with a given set of manufacturing operations - and if so, then finding the associated manufacturing efficiency. In this research, the design is represented as a solid model. The tolerance and surface finish information is represented as attributes of various faces of the solid model. Machining features are used to model the available machining operations Since there can be several different ways to manufacture a proposed design, this requires considering alternative ways to manufacture it, in order to determine which one best meets the design and manufacturing objectives.

The approach developed in this thesis is based on the systematic exploration of various machining plans. The first step is to identify all machining features which can potentially be used to machine the given design. Using these features, different machining plans are generated. Each time a new plan generated, it is examined to find whether it can produce the desired design tolerances. If a plan is found to be capable of meeting the tolerance specifications, then its rating is computed. If no machining plan can be found that is capable of producing the design, then the design cannot be machined using the given set of machining operations; otherwise, the manufacturability rating of the design is computed. Since various alternative ways of machining the part are considered in this approach, the conclusions about the manufacturability are more realistic compared to the approach where just one alternative is considered.

It is anticipated that this research will help in speeding up the evaluation of new product designs in order to decide how or whether to manufacture them. Such a capability will be useful in responding quickly to changing demands and opportunities in the marketplace.}, keywords = {Automation, computer aided manufacturing, computer integrated manufacturing, Feature extraction, flexible manufacturing, manufacturability, Manufacturing, Solid modeling}, url = {http://drum.lib.umd.edu//handle/1903/5693}, author = {Gupta, Satyandra K.} } @article {18824, title = {Current Trends and Future Challenges in Automated Manufacturability Analysis}, volume = {ISR; TR 1995-16}, year = {1995}, month = {1995///}, institution = {Institute for Systems Research, University of Maryland, College Park}, abstract = {In the marketplace of the 21st century, there is no place for traditional communications between design and manufacturing. In order to {\textquoteleft}{\textquoteleft}design it right the first time,{\textquoteright}{\textquoteright} designers must ensure that their products are both functional and easy to manufacture. Software tools have had some successes in reducing the barriers between design and manufacturing. Manufacturability analysis systems are emerging as one such tool---enabling identification of potential manufacturing problems during the design phase and providing suggestions to designers on how to eliminate them.

In this paper, we survey of current state of the art in automated manufacturability analysis. We describe the two dominant approaches to automated manufacturability analysis and overview representative systems based on their application domain. Finally, we attempt to expose some of the existing research challenges and future directions.}, keywords = {computer integrated manufacturing, manufacturability, Manufacturing, Solid modeling, Systems Integration Methodology}, url = {http://drum.lib.umd.edu//handle/1903/5611}, author = {Gupta, Satyandra K. and Das,Diganta and Regli,W. C. and Nau, Dana S.} } @article {18833, title = {Feature Recognition for Manufacturability Analysis}, volume = {ISR; TR 1994-10}, year = {1994}, month = {1994///}, institution = {Institute for Systems Research, University of Maryland, College Park}, abstract = {While automated recognition of features has been attempted for a wide range of applications, no single existing approach possesses the functionality required to perform manufacturability analysis. In this paper, we present a methodology for taking a CAD model and extracting a set of machinable features suitable for generating all alternative interpretations of the model as collections of MRSEVs (Material Removal Shape Element Volumes, a STEP-based library of machining, features). This set of MRSEVs is to be employed for manufacturability analysis. The algorithm handles a variety of features including those describing holes, pockets, slots, and chamfering and filleting operations. In addition, it considers elementary accessibility constraints for these features and is provably complete over a, significant class of machinable parts the features describe. Further, the approach has low-order polynomial-time worst-case complexity.}, keywords = {algorithms, Automation, COMPUTER AIDED DESIGN, computer aided manufacturing, computer integrated manufacturing, Feature extraction, manufacturability, Manufacturing, Solid modeling, Systems Integration}, url = {http://drum.lib.umd.edu//handle/1903/5490}, author = {Regli,W. C. and Gupta, Satyandra K. and Nau, Dana S.} } @article {18830, title = {Estimation of Achievable Tolerances}, volume = {ISR; TR 1993-44}, year = {1993}, month = {1993///}, institution = {Institute for Systems Research, University of Maryland, College Park}, abstract = {This report presents a new and systematic approach to assist decision-making in selecting machining operation plans. We present a methodology to estimate achievable tolerances of operations plan. Given an operation plan, we use variety of empirical and mathematical models to evaluate process capabilities of various machining operations and compute achievable tolerances using tolerance charting techniques.}, keywords = {Automation, computer aided manufacturing, Manufacturing, Manufacturing Systems}, url = {http://drum.lib.umd.edu//handle/1903/5389}, author = {Gupta, Satyandra K. and Nau, Dana S. and Zhang,G. M.} } @article {16735, title = {MANDATE: managing networks using database technology}, journal = {IEEE Journal on Selected Areas in Communications}, volume = {11}, year = {1993}, month = {1993/12//}, pages = {1360 - 1372}, abstract = {There has been a growing demand for the development of tools to manage enterprise communication networks. A management information database is the heart of a network management system-it provides the interface between all functions of the network management system and, therefore, has to provide sophisticated functionality allied with high performance. The authors introduce the design of MANDATE (MAnaging Networks using DAtabase TEchnology), a proposed database system for effectively supporting the management of large enterprise networks. The MANDATE design makes a conscious attempt to take advantage of the special characteristics of network data and transactions, and of advances in database technology, to efficiently derive some of the required management functionality}, keywords = {Communication networks, database management systems, enterprise communication networks, Heart, Information management, interface, internetworking, Local area networks, management functionality, management information database, managing networks using database technology, MANDATE, Manufacturing, network operating systems, open systems, Optical fiber cables, Research and development management, Technology management, telecommunication network management, Transaction databases, wide area networks}, isbn = {0733-8716}, doi = {10.1109/49.257929}, author = {Haritsa,J. R and Ball,M. O and Roussopoulos, Nick and Datta,A. and Baras,J. S} } @article {18840, title = {Generation and Evaluation of Alternative Operation}, volume = {ISR; TR 1992-20}, year = {1992}, month = {1992///}, institution = {Institute for Systems Research, University of Maryland, College Park}, abstract = {This paper presents a new and systematic approach to assist decision-making in selecting machining operation sequences. The approach is to produce alternative interpretations of design as different collections of machinable features, use these interpretations to generate alternative machining operation sequences, and evaluate the cost and achievable machining accuracy of each operations sequence. Given the operation sequences and their evaluations, it is then possible to calculate the performance measures of interest, and use these performance measures to select, from among the various alternatives, one or more of them that can best balance the need for a quality product against the need for efficient machining.}, keywords = {Automation, computer aided manufacturing, computer integrated manufacturing, Feature extraction, flexible manufacturing, Manufacturing, Manufacturing Systems, Solid modeling}, url = {http://drum.lib.umd.edu//handle/1903/5203}, author = {Nau, Dana S. and Zhang,G. M. and Gupta, Satyandra K.} }