Stable Assembly Sequence Planning Using a Genetic Algorithm

Abstract

Stability problems in assembly sequence planning have drawn great research interest in recent years. Most proposed methodologies are based on graph theory and involve complex geometric and physical analyses. As a result, even for a simple structure, it is difficult to take all the criteria into account and to implement real world solutions. This paper uses a genetic algorithm (GA) to synthesize different criteria fo generating a stable assembl plan. Three matrices (Connection Matrix, Supporting Matrix, and Interference-Free Matrix) are generated from an input B-rep file to represent the CAD information of a given product. The stability of a given assembly plan and reorientation numbers are incorporated into the fitness function of the genetic assembly planner. The proposed planning algorithm has been successfull implemented. This paper also presents implemented planne performance as measured for two industry-standard structures.