Generation of an Intermediate Workpiece for Planning of Machining Operations

Abstract

Digital twins in manufacturing plays a key factor for the digital transformation. A necessary component of any digital twin in manufacturing is a geometric model of a workpiece as it is processed through steps. DT requires solid 3d models, machining features, and information regarding machines, tools, and its constraints such as initial setup, machining direction, etc. The objective of this paper is to generate alternate feature interpretations to identify geometric constraints, machine and tool requirements, and stock materials to generate flexible manufacturing plans that fit a defined criterion. In this study we propose using the IMPlanner system to retrieve a 3d model from a CAD software, read its geometric features and convert them into possible machining features. This information along with information from the database of stock materials, tools, machines, and tolerances, the system generates several feature interpretations, thus offering a more flexible manufacturing plan.