Computer Aided Process Planning

Introduction

Computer Aided Process Planning (CAPP) forms an imperative connection between design and manufacturing operation in the computer-integrated manufacturing (CIM) environment. A CAPP system aims to automate the generation of process plans so that functions, such like tool selection, feature sequencing, process selection, and machine tool selection can be performed without human intervention.

Process planning is a boundary function, (that means it lies on the boundary between design and production) that requires input from both design (i.e. CAD files, etc.) and manufacturing (i.e. process capabilities, etc.). Due to its position it can serve as a mechanism for more completely integrating these functions. The rationalisation and standardisation required to implement a CAPP system can provide useful information on problem between design and manufacturing. It can also be employed to more efficiently integrate information systems.

Objectives

After studying this unit, you should be capable to

1. Understand the concept of computer aided process planning,

2. Know the different types of capp system,

3. Explain the benefits of capp system,

4. Differentiate between process planning and capp system,

5. Describes the steps in automatic process planning, and

6. Describe the advantages and disadvantages of capp.