Algorithm based decision support system for the concerted selection of equipment in machining/assembly cells

Abstract

Equipment selection plays a major role in the performance of machining/assembly cells. Based on analytical algorithms, a decision support system (DSS) is developed to select machining centres and robots concurrently from the milieu available in the marketplace. The DSS evaluates the design and geometry of the mating parts that are to be processed and assembled by the cell. Accordingly, it recommends the machining centre and robot that maximize the cell's performance subject to various operational and budget constraints.