Methods for computer-aided process planning

Understanding the methods employed in CAPP is of significant importance.
This passage provides an overview of some of the methods utilized in
CAPP software. Two main approaches are explained: the variant approach
and the generative approach. The variant approach involves searching
databases for similar parts, while the generative approach entails
creating a suitable manufacturing technique for each part from scratch.
Following the discussion of these approaches, the challenge of creating
the interface is explained. Translating the geometric features of a part
into the manufacturing process poses a non-trivial task. Consequently,
three methods are introduced to address this problem. The first is the
design by feature method, which establishes a connection between the
part’s design features and the manufacturing process. The second method
is feature recognition, which requires a human process planner to
connect the features that are not inherently linked. Lastly, there is
the automatic feature recognition method, which aims to automatically
identify and connect the features without human intervention.