OP-PLAN: An Automated Operation Planning System for Turned Components

Abstract
OP-PLAN is one of the modules of TECHTURN (1) which is a technologically oriented system for turned components. Given the geometry of the component, OP-PLAN recognizes, in the first instance, features such as threads, grooves and recesses, and then subdivides the rest of the component into volumes. A novel method is presented which determines simultaneously the optimum subdivision of the stock into volumes and the most suitable operation. In arriving at the solution, cost calculations are performed based on optimum cutting conditions calculated with standard tools having indexable inserts. For other features, preassigned operations are used. The sequence of operations is based on commonly accepted rules used in turning and care is taken to ensure that the technological requirements can be guaranteed. OP-PLAN caters for all axisymmetrical features and therefore it should be able to deal with a fairly large percentage of turned components found in industry. Three examples are included and they highlight some of the features of the system.