FACILE: A Clean Interface Design and Fabrication of Mechanical Parts

提出的研究目标是开发一个系统，用于设计和制造机械部件，类似于用于VLSI原型的MOSIS系统。在提出的模型中，离散零件交换格式（DPIF）文件将为设计者和制造者之间的信息交换提供基本的基础设施。DPIF中的数据类型包括工件描述（WD）、零件描述（PD）和三类制造块（FB）。制造块是简单直观的操作符，它也限制了设计师对可制造形状的选择。数据组织在一个层次数据结构中，在零件描述和制造块中包含的几何图形之间具有关联性。属性模式提供了将信息附加到数据类型的强大方法。设计器的系统功能包括FBs的创建、编辑和“宏”模拟。Fabricator的系统功能包括后处理、微仿真和成本估算。实验将与其他大学和当地机械加工承包商合作进行，以测试和完善这些概念。将生产大约50-100个分立部件。这项研究如果成功，将从根本上改变小批量离散零件的生产方式。设计师和制造商之间的物理距离将不再必要，交货时间将缩短，投标和合同将通过电子传输进行交换。设计师将要求投标通过基于网络的分销系统。制造商将估计成本，以最少的人力建设，并通过电子邮件提交投标。

The goal of the proposed research is to develop a system for the design and fabrication of mechanical parts that is analogous to the MOSIS system used for VLSI prototyping. In the proposed model, a Discrete Part Interchange Format (DPIF) file will provide the basic infrastructure for exchange of information between the designer and fabricator. Data types in the DPIF include a Workpiece Description (WD), Part Description (PD) and three classes of Fabrication Blocks (FB). Fabrication Blocks are simple and intuitive operators which also limit the designer's choices to shapes which are manufactureable. Data are organized in a hierarchical data structure with associativity between the geometry contained in the Part Description and the Fabrication Blocks. Attribute Schemas provide a powerful method for attaching information to the data types. System functionality for the Designer includes creation, editing and `macro` simulation of the FBs. System functionality for the Fabricator includes postprocessing, micro simulation and cost estimation. Experiments will be performed in collaboration with other universities, and with a local machining contractor to test and refine the concepts. Approximately 50-100 discrete parts will be produced. This research, if successful, could fundamentally change the way that discrete parts of small lots sizes are produced. Physical proximity of designer and fabricator would no longer be necessary, delivery times will be shorter, bids and contracts will be exchanged by electronic transmission. Designers will request bids via a web based distribution system. Fabricators will estimate cost to build with minimum human effort and submit bids via email.