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Original Date: 05/08/1995
Revision Date: 01/18/2007
Information : Feature-Based Machining
McDonnell Douglas Aerospace (MDA)-St. Louis is developing software for Unigraphics that explores the impact of feature-based machining on processes and business cases. A feature is a stereotyped aspect of a part that has useful functions. There are design features, engineering features and machining features. Feature recognition can lead to automated process planning or NC program generation. The MDA-St. Louis software for Unigraphics feature based machining attempts to identify machining features from Unigraphics geometry for generation of NC code. Feature Based Machining requires:
Definitions of features
Software recognition technology
Definition of logical interferences such as fixtures
Feature intersections
Database of tooling, materials, costs
Successful technical demonstrations will lead to evaluation of the business case which may lead to process changes. Potential process changes are:
Add production verification of the solid model to reduce cycle time
Cost estimates based on manufacturing features and best NC practices
Reduce the cycle time to create NC instructions
Use cutter logic, tool sheets, operations lists and diagrams with subcontractors
There is a significant amount of work remaining, but successful completion of these process changes would improve productivity and competitiveness.
For more information see the
Point of Contact for this survey.
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