Design of Architecture and Physical Configuration for RMT/RMS: Modelling of Machines, Workpieces, Manufacturing Operations and Process

Abstract

This chapter is dealing with the design of the architecture and physical configuration of a reconfigurable machine tool (RMT) as well as reconfigurable manufacturing system (RMS) based on modelling and tools which allow describing functional modules, machines, parts and process plans. The relevant parameters for the purpose are defined and can be used in the frame of a methodology based on a parsimony approach, so several configurations are obtained and after that used for designing the optimized final system by taking into account of logistical and economic constraints linked to the products to be manufacture. So, the product family which can be manufactured on the system is defined and it will be easy to know if a new product can be manufactured on the system or it will necessary to change the system confirmation. The methodology for designing production system is mainly based on a homogeneous matrix for describing the machine structure and manufacturing features for describing parts in terms of geometrical data. The technological knowledge is formalized into the features and the rules used for process plan generation. After that, the models can be used for geometrical and kinematic simulation which allows getting a 3D model of the system and the geometric quality expected.