Evolution of Computer‐Aided Process Planning for Hybrid Additive/Subtractive Process

Abstract

The hybrid process, which integrates two or more different processes such as additive manufacturing and subtractive manufacturing, has gained appreciable considerations in recent years. This process exploits the benefits of individual processes while overcoming their limitations. Lately, the combination of additive, subtractive, and inspection methods is a valuable conglomeration, considering its potential to produce complicated components precisely. Certainly, computer-aided process plan (CAPP) provides a crucial link among different processes and is essential to avail the benefits of hybridization. However, a valuable process plan can only be achieved through the optimization of its different elements. Therefore, the objective of this work is the accomplishment of an optimized CAPP to fabricate parts in the shortest time employing the hybrid additive, subtractive, and inspection processes. In this work, mathematical models have been developed to optimize part orientation as well as minimize additive and subtractive times. Additionally, the genetic algorithm has been employed to obtain the best path with minimum inspection time. The feasibility and capability of the proposed approach as well as the optimized CAPP for the hybrid process have been demonstrated through a case study.

Shop scheduling in manufacturing environments: a review

“…Abdulhameed et al. (2020) considered that a CAPP deals with the following actions: (i)feature recognition from the geometrical model; (ii)selection of machine tools; (iii)selection of tool sets; (iv)selection of machine setup; (v)selection of machining operations and their sequence; (vi)selection of cutting tools; (vii)calculation of cutting conditions; (viii)determination of tool paths; and (ix)numerical control (NC) part program generation. …”

“…Figure 8 shows the schematic representation of a basic CAPP model and the contact point with the scheduling, represented by the block in red. Abdulhameed et al (2020) considered that a CAPP deals with the following actions: (Marri et al, 1998). Tan and Khoshnevis (2000) indicated that there are four decision-making approaches frequently used in the implementation of a CAPP system: (i) decision logic: determines how a process (or processes) is selected.…”