A framework for prismatic part-data generation-unit-machined loop concept

A framework for prismatic part-data generation based on the concept of the unit-machined loop is proposed. The unit-machine -loop is a removing volume that can be machined with a type of cutler within a type of operation. With the aid of this concept, the traditional feature representation model is discarded, and the process reasoning logic development is simplified. The factors of critical information and process knowledge of the removing volumes which influence the unit-machined loop construction are discussed. The input of the framework can be either from a two-dimensional computeraided- design system or from a three-dimensional solid modelling system. The interface algorithms of two- and three-dimensional systems are presented. Finally, the rules for constructing the unit-machined loops are given and the concept is illustrated by the use of examples.