Abstract
An intelligent modular fixture design system based on case-based reasoning (CBR) is proposed in this paper. Knowledge in CBR is represented in cases instead of rules. Descriptions of the CBR algorithm and its advantage over the rule-based expert system are introduced. Modification is a main operation in the CBR algorithm. Functional features are applied at this stage. Each component in a modular fixture is assigned a functional feature according its function. These components for which the functions are unsatisfactory are modified to fit the new problem. The modified case is stored in a knowledge base and becomes new knowledge. An illustrated example is presented. Two characteristics are expected of this modular fixture design system. First, the design system becomes more intelligent than the traditional CAD system; it participates in complete design work rather than just printing the design. Secondly, the system can learn from every consultation and become more experienced.
Similar content being viewed by others
References
B. O. Nnaji, S. Alladin and P. Lyu, “A framework for a rule-based expert fixturing system for face milling planar surfaces on a CAD system using flexible fixtures”,Journal of Manufacturing Systems 7(3), pp. 193–207, 1988.
B. O. Nnaji and P. Lyu, “Rules for an expert fixturing system on a CAD screen using flexible fixtures”,Journal of Intelligent Manufacturing,1, pp. 31–48, 1990.
P. M. Grippo, M. V. Gandhi and B. S. Thompson, “The computer-aided design of modular fixturing systems”,The International Journal of Advanced Manufacturing Technology 2(2), pp. 75–88, 1987.
B. Humm, Ch. Schulz, M. Radtke and G. Warnecke, “A system for case-based process planning”,Computers in Industry,17, pp. 169–180, 1991.
A. Bose, A. Esterline, D. Riley and A. Erdman, “Case-based preliminary linkage design”,Proceedings, International Conference on Design Productivity, Honolulu, Hawaii, pp. 419–424, 6–9 February 1991.
T. Arciszewski and W. Ziarko, “Structural optimization: case-based approach”,Journal of Computing in Civil Engineering 5(2), pp. 159–174, April 1991.
T. Bardasz and I. Zeid, “Cognitive model of memory for mechanical-design problem”,Computer-Aided Design 24(6), pp. 327–342, June 1992.
S. H. Sun and J. L. Chen, “A fixture design system based on case-based reasoning”,Proceedings of ICED 93, 9th International Conference on Engineering Design, The Hague, Netherlands vol. 3, pp. 1377–1384, 17–19 August 1993.
H. Opitz,A Classification System to Describe Workpieces Pergamon Press, Oxford, Great Britain, 1970.
Author information
Authors and Affiliations
Rights and permissions
About this article
Cite this article
Sun, S.H., Chen, J.L. A modular fixture design system based on case-based reasoning. Int J Adv Manuf Technol 10, 389–395 (1995). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01179402
Issue Date:
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01179402