A Process Decision-Making Method for Planar Machining of Box-Type Components

The process of decision-making for machining box-type components plays a crucial role in the technological design of mechanical components. Currently, the selection of process parameters for box-type parts often relies on designers consulting manuals or on personal experience. Moreover, different designers utilize independent and heterogeneous Computer-Aided Process Planning (CAPP) systems, leading to uncertainties in process design and difficulties in sharing and transmitting process knowledge. This paper proposes an ontology-based process decision-making method for the planar machining of box-type parts to infer the appropriate machining process parameters. First, a hierarchical information representation model for process decision-making in planar machining is constructed to describe the decision-making process. Second, an ontology model for process decision-making in planar machining is developed based on relevant concepts and relationships involved in the decision-making process. Third, reasoning rules for planar machining process decisions are established using Semantic Web Rule Language (SWRL), incorporating part feature information and process knowledge to infer reasonable process methods and operation dimensions. Finally, a case study of gear transmission housing is presented to illustrate the working process of the proposed method and verify its effectiveness.