Geometric and Kinetic Model Based Computer-Aided Fixture Design Verification

Computer-aided fixture design (CAFD) techniques have advanced to the point that fixture configurations can be generated automatically, for both modular fixtures and dedicated fixtures. Computer-aided fixture design verification (CAFDV) is a technique for verifying and improving existing fixture designs. This paper introduces a first comprehensive CAFDV framework which uses both geometric and kinetic models to verify locating completeness, locating accuracy, and fixturing stability. The models can be also used for locating tolerance assignment and the determination of minimum clamping force required in machining operations. The system is integrated with commercial CAD package and applied in industrial real-cases.