Process planning system in the CIM environment

Abstract This paper describes an approach to the integration of Process Planning with Computer Aided Design and Computer Aided Manufacturing functions. The link is established through IGES which is used to transfer the geometric data from the CAD system to the process planning system. The process planning system can subsequently use this data in generating a detailed process plan as well as an NC part program for the manufacture of the part and can therefore be used as the basis of true integration between CAD and CAM.