Selection of cutting tools and conditions of machining operations using an expect system

This paper presents the development of a knowledge-based system for selection of cutting tools and conditions of turning operations. The system developed can be used to select the toolholder, insert and cutting conditions (feed, speed and depth of cut). It is able to analyse and optimise cutting tools and condition selection. In addition, the user or tool supplier is able to modify and enhance the system to meet their individual requirements. This system is constructed and implemented using Prolog. It contains an inference engine, a user interface and explanation facility (a complete shell), a knowledge base, and an optimisation model for machining conditions. The inputs to the system developed are the part and tool files, which include the representation of the part features and cutting tools. This paper describes the application of the system developed using a typical example. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.