An object-oriented neutral feature model for feature conversion

Abstract

This paper describes the application of neutral features to facilitate feature conversion. Feature conversion among various applications is achieved through a two-way conversion process. When an application modifies its own features, the corresponding neutral features will be adjusted. This modification will be propagated to all the other applications through the conversion process. A prototype feature conversion system has been established. The system currently supports the design and manufacture of prismatic machined parts. Three applications are defined: design application, machining planning application and set-up planning application. Each application has its own set of application features. Object-oriented technology is employed in system development. The structures of the neutral features and application features are developed using the object-oriented technique. The development of the representation schemes and the corresponding algorithms are divided into box-shaped and non-box-shaped. Object-oriented messages for the maintenance of both the box-shaped and non-box-shaped feature models are developed. The process of conversion from an application feature to neutral features is developed using the object-oriented technique; algorithms are implemented in the form of object-oriented messages. The conversion from neutral features to application features is handled by the rule-based reasoning approach.