A multi-agent-based intelligent STEP-NC controller for CNC machine tools

ISO 6983 has now been considered as a bottleneck for developing next generation CNC machine tools. STEP-NC is a new interface standard between CAD/CAM systems and CNC machines, which not only provides an object-oriented data model for CNC with a detailed and structured data interface that incorporates feature-based programming, but also represents a data model for intelligent computer numerical controllers. This paper presents a conceptual framework of holonic compliant data interference for numerical control STEP-NC controller to implement intelligent control for Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machine tools. The architecture is comprised of 14 functional agents, such as interpreter agent, process planning agent, NCK/PLC agent, decision-making agent, etc. These agents can co-operate closely to carry out various functions of the intelligent STEP-NC controller in a desired manner. The process flow for the STEP-NC controller is analysed. Furthermore, the implementation for two functional agents (i.e. interpreter agent and process planning agent) is described in detail. Finally, the preliminary development of a prototype system is discussed. As a result, the framework and implementation methods proposed provide a paradigm for future implementation of an intelligent STEP-NC controller.