Assembly features in modeling and planning

In recent years, features have been introduced in modeling and planning for manufacturing of parts. Such features combine geometric and functional information. Here it is shown that the feature concept is also useful in assembly modeling and planning. For modeling and planning of both single parts and assemblies, an integrated object-oriented product model is introduced. For specific assembly-related information, assembly features are used. Handling features contain information for handling components, connection features information on connections between components. A prototype modeling environment has been developed. The product model has been successfully verified within several analyses and planning modules, in particular stability analyses, grip planning, motion planning and assembly sequence planning. Altogether, feature-based product models for assembly can considerably help in both assembly modeling and planning, on the one hand by integrating single-part and assembly modeling, and on the other hand by integrating modeling and planning. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.