Tool selection in machining by integration of a data base and a rule based system

Abstract

The data base has been used for accounting, inventory and record keeping as well as in certain applications in process planning, group technology coding, and computer aided design. In this research a relational data base was used in conjunction with a rule based system to select cutting tool geometry and machining parameters. This hybrid system consists of a supervisory program which selects the appropriate rule based system from the user provided input (such as milling, drilling, boring, or turning) which in turn searches the data base utilizing the data base manager. Although designed as a stand alone package it can be easily incorporated within a CIM system and integrated with CAD/CAE/CAM package(s) at a later date.