STEP is a general data format that observes the international standard ISO 10303-21. STEP means Standard for the Exchange of Product model data. It consists of the 3D geometry of a computer-aided design (CAD) model in the configuration of boundary representation (B-rep). By extracting, refining and decoding the geometric data correctly, the data can be utilized for writing G-code for Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machining application. Usually G-codes can either be manually generated by skilled machinists or automatically generated by computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) software. However, manually generated G-code is inefficient and susceptible to error. Meanwhile automated generation G-code requires significant setup cost. This paper describes the design and development of an integrated interface system, an instrument aimed to be used to analyze STEP files and generate machining tool path based on ISO 6983 format. This developed interface reduces the need for high setup cost as well as eliminates human limitations. The interface at present is able of detecting circular machining features on the workpiece. Circular machining features are created by 3D modelling software and retained as STEP file. The STEP file which contains geometrical data is then uploaded to the interface system as an input file which is structurally analyzed and processed. Finally, the ideal machining tool path in the G Code format is proposed and generated. By bypassing the CAM software and its proprietary post processor, the outcome of this research is important to enhance compatibility between different CNC machine systems
The present and future challenges of a new product design, forecasting and risk management launch strategy for a new product modelling decision process. This paper intends to propose and to look towards the development of a low-cost integrated CAD-CAPP-CAD/CAM product modelling system for the design and manufacture of a proposed product. It is a mapping between several design phases like functional design, technical design and physical design. The modelling data generation process begins with the drafting of a product to be maintained using the drafting software package. From the CAD drawing, the data are transferred to be used as the product models and a CAPP software package will then prepare the operational parameters for the manufacturing of the product. These process data are relayed to a CAM software package, which will then generate the automating informationprocessing functions. The final stage of the function is to support design and manufacturing operations that may have reaped many benefits in terms of its initial equipment and software costs.
The STEP (STandard for the Exchange of Product model data) is a worldwide standard for exchanging products between diverse computer systems and industrial applications. STEP files (ISO 10303) contain 3D data in the universal data format with a boundary representation (B-rep) that allows the exchange of data models between CAD, CAM, and CNC systems. Traditionally, G-code generation relies on CAM software as an add-on, which incurs significant installation costs. The purpose of this paper is to describe the development of an Integrated Interface System (I2S) for Tool Path Generation (TPG) for the CNC milling operations utilizing neutral STEP files.The algorithm was interpreted in Hypertext Preprocessor (PHP) programming and produced a computer interface system that is capable to convert STEP file geometric data to G-code format.The geometric features of the sample block were modeled using a 3D CAD model. The result was validated using machining simulation, and the machining is performed on a three-axis CNC milling machine with a PC-based controller.In modern manufacturing systems based on Open Architecture Controller (OAC), the development of the I2S provides an alternative to generating machining tool paths and G-code by intercepting CAM software.
The STEP file is the “standard for the exchange of product model data,” which is usually used to exchange geometric data in boundary representation (B-rep) between different computer-aided design (CAD) platforms. These data can be fully utilized and integrated into a larger manufacturing organization, such as a computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) environment for computer numerical control (CNC) machining applications based on ISO 6983. The 3D models of 2D machining profiles were created in CAD software and saved as STEP files. The data structure was analyzed by comparing the geometric entities of the CAD model and the STEP file. The algorithm was created using the hypertext preprocessor (PHP) programming language and produced a computer interface system to convert STEP files into G-code format. The machining blocks with profile machining features were simulated using a CNC simulator and PC-based open architecture control (OAC) software. The G-code was validated on a three-axis CNC milling machine, and the result was compared to the CAD model to confirm the machining profile. The integrated interface system I2S demonstrates its ability to interpret all 2D profiles and generate machining tool paths and G-code, allowing data flow between CAD and CAM environments and shortening product development cycles.
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