Methods for Advanced Group Technology Integrated with CAD/CAM

MAGIC - 2623

Keywords CAD, CAM, CAPP, group technology, component descriptions, SMEs

Start Date: 01-JUN-88 / Duration: 36 months

Objectives and Approach

The objective of this project is to develop a computer automated group technology (CAGT) system to facilitate the use of group technology methods and tools in small and medium-sized factories by automating the methods and integrating the tools into CAD/CAM and CAPP systems.

The principal modules of the system will provide:

automatic creation, during a design task on a CAD system, of computer-based internal representations of assemblies, subassemblies and parts, defining their geometrical, functional and production characteristics
automatic retrieval, based on their functional or morphological characteristics, of existing similar designs of assemblies, subassemblies and parts, from a rough sketch on the CAD system, or a functional or production-oriented description of a new design
automatic retrieval of appropriate operation sequences for manufacturing.

The automatic generation of internal representations will avoid the need for the time-consuming and inconsistent coding of parts normally experienced with group technology systems.

The CAGT system will be interfaced to a range of CAD systems.

Exploitation

The project's industrial partners will make direct use of the system by applying it to their own manufacturing operations. They expect to achieve more efficient design and process planning, improved usage of their manufacturing equipment through the standardising of processes, and a reduction in inventories.

The project results will be sold as a software product by Eigner & Partner. CAP Sesa Industrie will use the project results for specific industrial automation projects.

CONTACT POINT

Mr Dirk De Moor
WTCM/CRIF MECHANICAL ENGINEERING
Celestijnenlaan 300C
B - 3001 HEVERLEE
tel: + 32/ 16-286-611
fax: + 32/ 16-237-678
telex: 25393

Participants

WTCM/CRIF MECHANICAL ENGINEERING - B - C
CAP SESA INDUSTRIE - F - P
CETIM-ETABLISSEMENT DE SENLIS - F - P
LVD COMPANY NV - B - P
MICHEL VAN DE WIELE NV - B - P
EIGNER & PARTNER GMBH - D - A
MARES SA - E - A

MAGIC - 2623, December 1993

please address enquiries to the ESPRIT Information Desk

html version of synopsis by Nick Cook