A knowledge based multi-level modelling system for the design of flexible machining facilities

The design and implementation of flexible machining installations calls for a high investment in capital and manpower. A review of the state of the art of tools to model such facilities is presented first in order to establish the merits of different approaches. Emphasis is then placed on describing a knowledge based approach which is capable of modelling alternative facilities over multiple levels of detail. Finally an application example utilizing the approach is presented with illustrations of typical results.