Research in feature-based design is reviewed. Feature-based design is regarded as a key factor towards CAD/CAPP integration from a process planning point of view. From a design point of view, featurebased design offers possibilities for supporting the design process better than current CAD systems do. The evolution of feature definitions is briefly discussed. Features and their role in the design process and as representatives of design-objects and design-object knowledge are discussed. The main research issues related to feature-based design are outlined. These are: feature representation, features and tolerances, feature validation, multiple viewpoints towards features, features and standardization, and features and languages. An overview of some academic featurebased design systems is provided. Future research issues in feature-based design are outlined. The conclusion is that feature-based design is still in its infancy, and that more research is needed for a better support of the design process and better integration with manufacturing, although major advances have already been made.

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T h i s paper describes conventional and ennanced methods fcr the mc,nitoring ar;d ccsrtrol of nachining processes with a limitation to cutting and grinding machine tools. The differences between the various methods and the corresponding equipment, software and strategies are considered as well as the reasons for the limited success o f some of the existing systems i n use. Furtnermore, the requirements of future monitoring and ccntrol systems are worked out. Therefore a systematic analysis o f present and future sytems and their components is made. Finally, the function of machining process planning and its influence on the performance and the reliability of the process is discussed.