An approach to machining process optimization

Optimization is rightly claimed to be the most significant factor distinguishing the modern approach to machining processes from the orthodox one. Practical results can be obtained from the application of mathematical modelling and optimization techniques. The paper presents a procedure for solution of machining process optimization problems, with the use of theory of graphs and Bellman's optimum principle. The finite graph G=(N, A) (where -N denoted a set of nodes and A the set of arcs) here presents the set of feasible solutions. Each are represents a corresponding machining operation and each path the feasible machining process. A number can be associated with each are : the increment of criterion for optimality. Using the optimum principle we can find the shortest possible path in the graph, thus solving given problems of choice for the optimal machining process. There is a variety of ways in which the performance criterion can be formulated. In this paper only those performance measures having suffic...