Abstract
Fixture planning is an indispensable part of a manufacturing process planning routine. This paper introduces a rational approach to computer-aided fixture planning (CAFP). A method of fixture classification and selection is introduced for planning of modular fixtures. The location of each fixture component is determined according to the common fixturing principles. We has developed a prototype CAFP system and linked to a commercial CAD system, namely CADAM. Modular fixture elements are automatically selected by the system, and the generated fixture layout can be displayed on-screen after assembly. For verification and optimization of a fixturing scheme, a fixture analysis module is also developed. An iteration method is used to solve the fixturing constraint equations and to determine the adequate clamping forces for holding the workpiece during machining processes.