Process planning with conditional and conflicting advice

Abstract Due to the vast amount and intricacies of technological knowledge, the process planning problem, even for relatively simple workpieces, can hardly be solved by a straightforward algorithm. The paper shows that this problem is more readily tractable as satisfying constraints that represent pieces of advice taken from experts. We define a generic constraint-based model for process planning that handles precedences and setup formation, as well as the mutual effects of operation sequencing and resource assignment. We demonstrate the use of our model with examples of machining prismatic workpieces and bending sheet metal parts.