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[Display omitted] • A laser-derived paper-based three electrode system was fabricated. • The electrodes were thoroughly characterized physically and electrochemically. • The multi-functional sensing ability of the fabricated electrodes was demonstrated. • The chemically engineered electrodes offered great reproducibility and reliability. • Real sample assessment included small molecules, free radicals, and macromolecules. The demand for eco-friendly, disposable, and affordable electrochemical sensors stimulates the fabrication of laser-directed paper-based electrodes. This work reports the fabrication of laser-derived patterns on the paper substrate and its multi-functional sensing applications. For this, a computer-aided design (CAD) software-driven computer numerical control (CNC) manufacturing method was developed to engrave a three-electrode design on a paper substrate. The fabricated L aser- D irected e lectrochemical P aper A nalytical D evice (LD-ePAD) was thoroughly characterized by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Raman spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), contact angle analysis, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), and the cyclic voltammetry (CV). After that, we demonstrated the multi-functional sensing ability of the LD-ePADs by detecting diverse model analytes, including small molecules (i.e., lead ions [Pb2+]), free radicals (i.e., peroxide [H 2 O 2 ]), and macromolecules (i.e., Alkaline phosphatase [ALP]). Upon investigation, it exhibits a fair detection limit of 5.19 (±0.21) µM for Pb2+, 48.66 (±0.31) µM for H 2 O 2 , and 0.48 (±0.02) U/L for ALP. The LD-ePADs' outstanding repeatability, stability, abundance of catalytic active sites, remarkable tunability, and potential for nano-bioengineering emphasized their tremendous commercial feasibility. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to use controlled one-step laser direct engraving to fabricate a three-electrode setup on a paper-substrate that can sense three heterogeneous molecules electrochemically. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since more than a decade ago, the research on highly filled papers, as well as paper‐derived inorganic materials, has greatly intensified. As presented in this review, highly filled papers as preforms allow for the design of porous or dense, multilayered, and geometrically complex structures. These paper‐derived ceramic‐ or metal‐based materials are generated by the heat‐treatment of highly filled papers. Paper‐derived materials are potential materials of choice for applications in transportation, energy‐generation, environmental conservation, support structures, medical uses, and electronic components. Due to the adjustability of the filler content and the good machinability of highly filled papers, paper‐derived sheets or multilayers may include intricate structures and tailored gradients in phase structure or porosity. Paper‐derived multilayers also may contain cast ceramic tapes or other functionalized layers, as presented in some examples. Computer‐aided manufacturing processes for paper‐derived materials can be supplemented by prediction models for the sintering shrinkage in order to identify optimal post‐processing steps, stacking orders and orientations for highly filled paper layers within multilayer green bodies. The accuracy of established component‐level sintering models can be significantly increased by microstructure models of the highly filled paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In today’s competitive market designing of digital systems (hardware as well as software) faces tremendous challenges. In fact, notwithstanding an ever decreasing project budget, time to market and product lifetime, designers are faced with an ever increasing system complexity and customer expected quality. The above situation calls for better and better formal verification techniques at all steps of the design flow. This special issue is devoted to publishing revised versions of contributions first presented at the 12th Advanced Research Working Conference on Correct Hardware Design and Verification Methods (CHARME) held 21–24 October 2003 in L’Aquila, Italy. Authors of well regarded papers from CHARME’03 were invited to submit to this special issue. All papers included here have been suitably extended and have undergone an independent round of reviewing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Industry 4.0., robots are regarded as one of the key components. In recent years, collaborative robots (cobots) have risen in relevance and have been included in the industry to perform tasks alongside humans. Robots have been used in many applications in manufacturing processes; for the scope of this paper, the emphasis on these applications is centered on welding and gluing. These applications need to be performed with specific speed, efficiency, and accuracy to attain optimal welding or bonding to the pieces. An operator cannot maintain such conditions consistently, with minimum variations, for an extended period; hence, robots are a more suitable option to perform those tasks. The robots used for these applications need to be instructed to follow a trajectory to either weld or apply the glue. This path must be programmed on the robot by an operator, and depending on the complexity of the trajectory, it can take up to extended periods of time to set all the required waypoints. There are specialized software environments that contribute to the automation of these tasks; however, the overall cost of the licenses is not affordable if the scale of the project only requires developing and programming trajectories a few times. This paper contains a proposal for an open-source Computer Aided Manufacturing (CAM) software to automatically generate the trajectories needed for the aforementioned welding and gluing applications. The procedure to develop the software starts by selecting the surface that will be welded or to which glue will be applied. The surface determines the model of the trajectory to be followed. Next, a processing system is fed with the individual points that make up the trajectory provided by their selection over the Computer Aided Drawing (CAD) model. This system then creates a program based on URScript® that can be directly uploaded to and executed on the robot. A set of tests is presented to validate the applications and to demonstrate the versatility of the developed trajectory generation system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, artificial intelligence technology has seen increasingly widespread application in the field of intelligent manufacturing, particularly with deep learning offering novel methods for recognizing geometric shapes with specific features. In traditional CNC machining, computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) typically generates G-code for specific machine tools based on existing models. However, the tool paths for most CNC machines consist of a series of collinear motion commands (G01), which often result in discontinuities in the curvature of adjacent tool paths, leading to machining defects. To address these issues, this paper proposes a method for CNC system machining trajectory feature recognition and path optimization based on intelligent agents. This method employs intelligent agents to construct models and analyze the key geometric information in the G-code generated during CNC machining, and it uses the MCRL deep learning model incorporating linear attention mechanisms and multiple neural networks for recognition and classification. Path optimization is then carried out using mean filtering, Bézier curve fitting, and an improved novel adaptive coati optimization algorithm (NACOA) according to the degree of unsmoothness of the path. The effectiveness of the proposed method is validated through the optimization of process files for gear models, pentagram bosses, and maple leaf models. The research results indicate that the CNC system machining trajectory feature recognition and path optimization method based on intelligent agents can significantly enhance the smoothness of CNC machining paths and reduce machining defects, offering substantial application value. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The 5th International Conference on Innovative Product Design and Intelligent Manufacturing Systems (ICIPDIMS'23) was held at the National Institute of Technology, Rourkela, India in December 2023. The conference aimed to promote product innovation and manufacturing with the aid of computer technology and provided a platform for delegates from industries and academia to exchange ideas and present their research works. The conference included eight tracks covering various aspects of design, manufacturing, and materials selection. The conference featured keynote speeches, technical sessions, and the publication of selected papers in MDPI's journal, Engineering Proceedings. The organizers expressed gratitude to the participants, reviewers, and volunteers for their contributions to the conference. [Extracted from the article]

The application of new additive technologies is based on models STL models of prototypes that will be build. This paper discusses two additive technologies: Fused Deposition Modeling – FDM and Laser Metal Directed Energy Deposition – Laser DED in terms of program preparation and its verification by simulation of material addition, i.e. machine simulation for these procedures. The paper presents the programming and program verification using machine simulation of additive manufacturing tool path in CAD/CAM and Vericut environment. A procedure for configuring and preparing of a virtual machine for several additive process simulations has been proposed. Simulation is a key technology for program verification. Machine simulation and digital twin are the primary simulation–based approaches in the context of the Industry 4.0.The paper analyzes the available programming software for generating G code from the STL file as well as the possibility of simulating the virtual machine when working according to the generated program. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In computerized tool path programming, the operator/user can generate the tool path based on the shape and geometry of the part to be produced by choosing from a set of predefined strategies available in the library of Computer Aided Manufacturing (CAM) software. These tool paths are typically not optimum, specifically for complex geometries. This paper employed Travelling Salesman Problem (TSP) as a foundation to propose a new tool path optimization algorithm for drilling to minimize the tool path length and subsequently reduce the time spent on nonproductive movements. The proposed algorithm was solved using local search approach in the presence of multiple constraints including geometric obstacles and initial location of tool origin. The outcome was a near-optimum tool path for drilling operations with no collision with workpiece features. The computational efficiency of the proposed algorithm was also compared with other methods in available literature using a standard workpiece as a benchmark. The results confirmed that for given examples, the near-optimum collision-free tool paths using the developed model in this paper were almost 50% shorter than the tool path generated by a commercial CAM software. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper proposes a B-spline trajectory algorithm to realize multi-axis trajectory interpolation and analyzes the operating accuracy in an embedded system. However, the existing trajectory generation method needs to use computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) software to convert the interpolating trajectory into G code and download the code into the computer numerical control (CNC) system for processing. In this paper, the method of third-degree B-spline interpolation is proposed to generate a curved surface trajectory, and the trajectory generated by this algorithm can be run directly into a CNC system. The precision analysis of the ISO parameter segmentation interpolation algorithm and the theory of constant velocity motion is also presented. The significance of this project is that it designs a complete set of embedded systems, including hardware circuit design and software logic design, and uses low-cost STM32 architecture to realize a B-spline constant-speed interpolation algorithm, which is verified on CNC polishing equipment. A simulation conducted with the MATLAB software and the B-spline curve interpolation experiments performed on a multi-axis polishing machine tool demonstrate the effectiveness and accuracy of the optimized third-degree B-spline algorithm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Wire and arc additive manufacturing (WAAM) is a widely used advanced manufacturing technology. If the surface defects occurred during welding process cannot be detected and repaired in time, it will form the internal defects. To address this problem, this study aims to develop an in situ monitoring system for the welding process with a high-dynamic range imaging (HDR) melt pool camera. Design/methodology/approach: An improved you only look once version 3 (YOLOv3) model was proposed for online surface defects detection and classification. In this paper, improvements were mainly made in the bounding box clustering algorithm, bounding box loss function, classification loss function and network structure. Findings: The results showed that the improved model outperforms the Faster regions with convolutional neural network features, single shot multibox detector, RetinaNet and YOLOv3 models with mAP value of 98.0% and a recognition rate of 59 frames per second. And it was indicated that the improved YOLOv3 model satisfied the requirements of real-time monitoring well in both efficiency and accuracy. Originality/value: Experimental results show that the improved YOLOv3 model can solve the problem of poor performance of traditional defect detection models and other deep learning models. And the proposed model can meet the requirements of WAAM quality monitoring. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Štore Steel Ltd. is one of the largest flat spring steel producers in Europe. There are two production lines after rolling - one for flat bars and the other for round bars. The flat bars production generally consists of visual examination, straightening and cutting operation. In addition, heat treatment or magnetic particle testing could be conducted. On the other hand, the round bars production consists generally of straightening, automatic control line control, chamfering and cutting. In addition, heat treatment is possible. For manipulation of the material in the rolling plant, the electric transporter and several cassettes are used. In the paper path planning and production storage optimization (i.e. storage spaces for cassettes) were conducted using genetic algorithm. The production storage is actually the space between main transport passage and individual operations. In the research the universal system using CAD geometry is presented where AutoCAD environment and in-house developed AutoLISP system were used. The production storage - storage spaces for cassettes (location and orientation) with corresponding electric transporter trajectories are represented as CAD objects and thus form individual solution/organism. The organisms undergo simulated evolution. The results of the evolution are compared with actual production storage in the steel plant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction of digital solutions has made dentistry more efficient and effective in response to patients' demands. Moreover, digital solution helps participants to manage daily workflow simpler than traditional practices. Scanners, CAD/CAM software, CNC machines and 3D printers are components of digital solutions in current dentistry. Responding to patients as quickly as possible is essential in medical fields and dentistry has similar situations. On the other hand, demands in dentistry are highly customized that it makes managing orders more difficult because each order needs special design and production. Thus, this paper assesses orders in digital dentistry and develops a mathematical model to optimize production planning and scheduling of orders by considering different objectives and requirements that are common in dentistry. In addition, a metaheuristics algorithm was developed based on PSO to respond to NP-hard challenges of the model. The developed algorithm includes two steps that PSO metaheuristics consider in the second step to search new solutions. Finally, through case studies, performance of the developed model and proposed algorithm was investigated. Developed algorithm generates solutions with proper quality considering makespan and total completion time objectives and required time to obtain a solution with high quality depends on problem data and can increase. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The primary objective of this study is to conduct a comprehensive review of the existing literature that discusses research on post and core restorations, covering aspects such as their composition, manufacturing methods, and clinical effectiveness. The methodology employed in this review encompasses the implementation of a well-defined search strategy, the establishment of criteria for inclusion and exclusion, and the selection of relevant studies to summarize their findings. To gather relevant literature published between 1993 and 2023, the research team conducted separate searches on PubMed, Web of Science, and Embase databases. In total, 168 titles were initially retrieved from these electronic databases. By applying the predefined exclusion criteria, the researchers identified 73 articles that specifically address the conventional and computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) technologies employed in post and core restorations. These treatments are commonly employed to restore teeth that have received endodontic therapy and subsequently experienced loss of dental structure. The development of computerized technology for the creation of customized posts and cores has emerged as a straightforward and efficient alternative to traditional methods. The review synthesizes papers discussing the techniques and materials involved in CAD/CAM-based construction of post and cores. It explores strategies for restoring endodontically treated teeth, highlighting both direct and indirect approaches. Commonly mentioned materials include zirconia, composite resin, and hybrid ceramics. Despite the limited literature on CAD/CAM post and core procedures, the review emphasizes the necessity of further research to assess long-term outcomes and efficacy. Additionally, it suggests including implications for future research and clinical recommendations to enhance the depth and practical relevance of the review. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the widespread use of computer-aided technologies like CAD/CAM/CAPP in the product manufacturing process, a large amount of process data is constantly generated and data-driven process planning has shown promising potentials for effectively reusing the process knowledge. However, a lot of labeled data are needed to train a deep learning model for effectively extracting the embedded knowledge and experiences within these process data and the labeling of process data is quite expensive and time-consuming. This paper proposes a cost-effective process design intents extraction approach for process data by combining active learning (AL) and self-paced learning (SPL). First, the process design intents inference model based on Bi-LSTM is generated by using a few pre-labeled samples. Then, the prediction uncertainty of each unlabeled sample is calculated by using a Bayesian neural network, which can assist in the identification of high confidence samples in SPL and low confidence samples in AL. Finally, the low confidence samples with manual-labels and the high confidence samples with pseudo-labels are incorporated into the training data for retraining the process design intents inference model iteratively until the model attains optimal performance. The experiments demonstrate that our approach can substantially decrease the number of labeled samples required for model training and the design intents in the process data could be inferred effectively with dynamically undated training data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The activity of part orientation is of crucial importance in terms of impact on the quality of parts in powder bed additive manufacturing. To support the decision-making of computer aided manufacturing (CAM) operators, several knowledge and software models are proposed. Even if they seem to help operators in orientation process, their operational effectiveness still needs to be scientifically assessed. This paper proposes to evaluate the efficiency of a part orientation software in assisting CAM engineers in part orientation choice. The related software is based on the mathematization of action rules issued from a knowledge model. The knowledge involved in carrying out the orientation activity is analyzed based on the users' expertise. To do this, an empirical approach based on a case study is made with participants of different levels of skills. Several design scenarios including various part typologies to be oriented are submitted to engineers, before their manufacturing with electron beam melting (EBM) technology. Two means of orientation are thus used for comparison, namely, a manual orientation and a computer-aided orientation software. Based on the orientation results, an analysis of the software usage is undertaken. As an underlying result of our study, we have come up with an evaluation approach that can be reused in other contexts and with other software. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper summarizes the effective components of computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing (CAD-CAM) resin composites that contribute to achieving greater mechanical properties and further development. In silico multi-scale analysis, in silico nonlinear dynamic finite element analysis (FEA), and artificial intelligence (AI) were used to explore the effective components of CAD-CAM resin composites. The effects of the filler diameter and silane coupling ratio on the mechanical properties of CAD-CAM resin composites have been clarified through multi-scale analysis. The effects of the filler contents, and filler and monomer compositions have been investigated by AI algorithms. The fracture behavior of CAD-CAM composite crown was analyzed using in silico non-linear dynamic FEA. The longevity of CAD-CAM composite crown was assessed through step-stress accelerating life testing (SSALT). As the filler diameter decreases, there is an increase in elastic moduli and compressive strengths at the macroscale. At the nanoscale, a decrease in the filler diameter results in a decrease in the maximum value of the maximum principal strain. When the silane coupling ratio decreases, there is a decrease in the elastic modulus and compressive strength. According to the exhaustive search and feature importance analysis based on the AI algorithm, the combination of certain components was narrowed down to achieve a flexural strength of 269.5 MPa. The in silico non-linear FEA successfully detected the sign of the initial crack of the CAD-CAM composite molar crown. The SSALT revealed that CAD-CAM resin composite molar crowns containing nanofillers with a high fraction of resin matrix demonstrated great longevity. This paper summarized the effective components of CAD-CAM resin composites for their further development. The integration of in vitro and in silico approaches will expedite the advancement of CAD-CAM resin composites, offering benefits such as time efficiency and reduction of material waste for researchers and manufacturers. • The effective components of CAD-CAM resin composites (RC) have been summarized. • A smaller filler and a high silane coupling ratio enhance the mechanical properties of CAD-CAM RC. • Non-linear FEA has detected the sign of the initial crack in the CAD-CAM composite crown. • AI has been utilized to narrow down the effective components that achieve high flexural strength. • CAD-CAM composite crowns with a high fraction of resin matrix demonstrate remarkable longevity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Amongst chairside CAD/CAM materials, the use of lithium-based silicate glass–ceramics (LSGC) for indirect restorations has recently been increasing. Flexural strength is one of the most important parameters to consider in the clinical selection of materials. The aim of this paper is to review the flexural strength of LSGC and the methods used to measure it. Methods: The electronic search was completed within PubMed database from 2 June 2011 to 2 June 2022. English-language papers investigating the flexural strength of IPS e.max CAD, Celtra Duo, Suprinity PC, and n!ce CAD/CAM blocks were included in the search strategy. Results: From 211 potential articles, a total of 26 were identified for a comprehensive analysis. Categorization per material was carried out as follows: IPS e.max CAD (n = 27), Suprinity PC (n = 8), Celtra Duo (n = 6), and n!ce (n = 1). The three-point bending test (3-PBT) was used in 18 articles, followed by biaxial flexural test (BFT) in 10 articles, with one of these using the four-point bending test (4-PBT) as well. The most common specimen dimension was 14 × 4 × 1.2 mm (plates) for the 3-PBT and 12 × 1.2 mm (discs) for BFT. The flexural strength values for LSGC materials varied widely between the studies. Significance: As new LSGC materials are launched on the market, clinicians need to be aware of their flexural strength differences, which could influence the clinical performance of restorations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rapid development of new materials and tools demonstrates the need for efficient and feasible machining processes. Modern production systems must guarantee sustainable, flexible, productive and high-quality production at low cost. Therefore, the combination of technological data with advanced software solutions is very important, especially when using complex CNC machining systems, where the reliability of the technological information is crucial, as simple measures can make a very positive contribution to the productivity achieved. When optimising the machining parameters, costs and machining time must be taken into account. The article deals with the optimisation of the turning process with a large number of influencing variables (machine, workpiece material, tool, cutting parameters, costs, etc.) and two objectives: the fastest possible machining (minimisation of machining time) and the lowest possible machining costs. The model is designed in an Excel spreadsheet and the multi-criteria optimisation is carried out using the approximation method. Step by step, we can find the optimal processing regime for each selected case. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Molds are an important piece of equipment in the production process due to the advantages they provide. Through development of computing systems, the performances of design and manufacturing applications have increased, allowing the design and production of products with increasingly complex shapes. Plastics products are used in the most diverse fields, from household products to parts for various industries. As a result of increasing customer demand, companies have to improve their design and manufacturing processes to ensure product quality and performance, and to increase the efficiency of production processes. Software applications have played an important role in the design simulation and manufacturing process of molds. Due to the complexity of the processes, product quality assurance cannot be predicted without design simulation and optimization applications and monitoring of production process parameters. In this paper the design and manufacture of blow mold for a plastic container is presented. The main design and manufacturing steps are presented using CAD-CAM applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Particles bed binding by selective cement activation (SCA) method is a computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) technique used to produce cementitious elements. A computer-aided design file is sliced to generate G-codes before printing. This paper aims to study the effect of key input parameters for slicer software on the final properties of printed products. Design/methodology/approach: The one factor at a time (OFAT) methodology is used to investigate the impact of selected parameters on the final properties of printed specimens, and the causes for the variations in outcomes of each variable are discussed. Findings: Finer aggregates can generate a more compact layer, resulting in a denser product with higher strength. Fluid pressure is directly determined by voxel rate (rV); however, high pressures enable better fluid penetration control for fortified products; for extreme rVs, residual voids in the interfaces between successive layers and single-line primitives impair mechanical strength. It was understood that printhead movement along the orientation of the parts in the powder bed improved the mechanical properties. Originality/value: The design of experiment (DOE) method assesses the influence of process parameters on various input printing variables at the same time. As the resources are limited, a fractional factorial plan is carried out on a subset of a full factorial design; hence, providing physical interpretation behind changes in each factor is difficult. OFAT aids in analyzing the effect of a change in one factor on output while all other parameters are kept constant. The results assist engineers in properly considering the influence of variable variations for future DOE designs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, different approaches to visualize CAM simulation results are presented. Simulated machined surfaces can be rendered in a photorealistic manner taking into account real tool motions and vibrations measured during the machining process. The actual tool trajectories are used to derive the microrelief of machined surface that lead to different reflective properties to be used in the CAM surface rendering pipeline. Broaching and grinding were two machining processes to adopt this photorealistic visualization. First, the generic CAM simulation computed the triangulated representation of the inprocess workpiece. Second, the triangles were enriched with the computed micro topography information that is used by the developed shader implementation during the visualization process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

STEP-NC is a smart standard, developed by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) as a substitute for the ISO 6983 G-code, because the language of the G-Code, normally used for computer numerical control (CNC), is qualified as being unable to link the CAD/CAM/CNC digital chain and meet the needs of modern intelligent manufacturing in terms of tractability, interoperability, flexibility, adaptability, and extensibility. The purpose of this work is to implement the new STEP-NC standard in a computer-aided process planning (CAPP) turning process to overcome the shortcomings of ISO 6893 G-code and enable the process to meet the demands of modern manufacturing. Therefore, the first objective of this paper is to design and implement a CAPP for the turning process, designated as CAPP-Turn, to ensure machining of rotational parts within this modern vision. However, to achieve the CAPP-Turn system, it is necessary to build a robust automatic manufacturing feature recognition (AMFR) module to establish full communication between the first two links of the digital chain, the design CAD and manufacturing CAM, by using a hybrid graph-rules method. The second objective of this work is to elaborate a new consistent-fast algorithm that allows one to extract the machining turning entities for parts with the most efficiency and complex geometry. It then becomes necessary to introduce the main machining entities defined within the framework of this standard and to explain the different parameters that are necessary for the unambiguous definition of these entities whether of a geometric, topological, or other nature. In fact, most of the AMFR systems presented in the literature are restricted to the external turning process and cannot handle parts with complex geometry and interacting features. Moreover, the frontal turning features are largely neglected in most of these systems, despite their importance for fulfilling certain functions in mechanical systems. This article first details the global architecture of the CAPP-Turn and clearly describes the interaction between the CAD part and STEP-NC output file. It then explains the model of the AMFR system, which encompasses (i) a parser module that translates geometric and topological data from a STEP AP203 CAD file into Python entity class objects; (ii) an AMFR that analyzes the objects created and applies predefined rules to construct all possible turning machining; and (iii) a module capable of distinguishing external features from internal, frontal features from axial, and handling interacting features from the simple features. After these steps, the AMFR provides all suitable sequencings for part machining. Finally, to demonstrate the potential advantages and power of the proposed AMFR, a selected part is chosen for testing. The result shows that the AMFR performs well in recognizing all types of features regardless of their type: internal or external, axial or frontal, simple or interacting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents an analysis and the research results of system couplers in CAx systems that ensure the correct transfer of product data from the "supplier" system to the "recipient" system. This study presents the results of the compatibility tests between the systems based on the verification of geometric models and their attributes after importing/exporting 2D and 3D objects using neutral data exchange formats. The purpose of the research was to identify neutral formats that do not introduce errors after data transversion in certain types of geometry. Tests and analyses were carried out on selected formats depending on the type of object, such as 2D objects (DXF), solid objects (IGES, STEP, SAT, and PARASOLID), and surface objects (IGES, STEP, SAT, and X_T). One of the results of our research and analysis is the need for continuous development of CAD/CAE systems because current neutral formats are not 100% effective. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to improve the effectiveness of virtual reality product design, this paper combines the computer-aided design method to construct a virtual reality product development system and analyzes the elements, architecture, and calculation steps of the virtual reality model in detail. Moreover, from the research on the color appearance phenomenon, this paper leads to the improvement direction of improving the virtual reality model. In addition, this paper discusses the advantages of the virtual reality product design model and its feasibility as a PCS link space to undertake the task of color appearance transformation. The experimental research analysis shows that the virtual reality product design system based on computer-aided technology proposed in this paper has good effects and can effectively improve the effect of virtual reality product design. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to improve the effect of intelligent CNC machining, this paper combines the CAD/CAM/Robot integration method to improve the CNC machining method and analyzes the tool path planning method and the path generation algorithm of the five-axis CNC machining machine. Through the tool processing calculation of the representative curved surface, this paper studies the basic theory, process planning, and tool parameter selection of the blade of the representative curved surface in the five-axis CNC machining and generates the blade CNC machining tool path through the simulation software. In addition, this paper analyzes the trajectory of the workpiece through the intelligent processing process and builds an intelligent processing system. Through the statistics of simulation test data, it can be seen that the CNC machining method based on CAD/CAM/Robot integration can effectively improve the intelligence of modern CNC machining and improve the effect of intelligent machining. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Traditional independent CNC evolves into cloud-based CNC that CNC functional modules migrate to the cloud platform and expose as services. Interpretation is a necessary CNC functional module that detects errors in NC programs and translates them into internal instructions. This paper presents an interpretation service with variable functionality and good performance for cloud-CNC. A composable interpretation mechanism is proposed to deal with the diversity of NC programming language. Thus, the interpretation functionality can adapt to NC programming language dynamically. Moreover, an independent operation processor and a conditional statement-based error-tolerant semantic analysis mechanism are proposed to improve the interpretation performance. The interpretation service is developed based on domain-driven design to improve its adaptability, maintainability, evolutionary, and more. Four tests have been designed to verify the interpretation performance and the functional variability of the interpretation service. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Personal data have become a central asset for multiple enterprise applications and online services offered by private companies, public organisations or a combination of both. The sensitivity of such data and the continuously growing legislation that accompanies their management dictate the development of methods that allow the development of more secure, trustworthy software systems with focus on privacy protection. The contribution of this paper is the definition of a novel requirements engineering method that supports both early and late requirements specification, giving emphasis on security, privacy and trust. The novelty of our work is that it provides the means for software designers and security experts to analyse the system-to-be from multiple aspects, starting from identifying high-level goals to the definition of business process composition, and elicitation of mechanisms to fortify the system from external threats. The method is supported by two CASE tools. To demonstrate the applicability and usefulness of our work, the paper shows its applications to a real-world case study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper describes a novel method for automated generation of process plans and numerical control (NC) part programs from 2D drawing image files. Four algorithms are introduced in this paper. First algorithm deals with extraction of geometrical data, second algorithm used to recognise turned features from the extracted geometrical data base. Recognised features are then passed to third and fourth algorithms for generation of process plans and NC part programs respectively. Using proposed system, it is possible to achieve fully automation of recognition of turned features, generation of process plans and NC part programs. Thus, it becomes possible to go from scanned image to finished product in a fully automated fashion. These algorithms have been implemented on mini-computer to process image data, and display recognised turned features, process plans and creates output files containing NC part programs. These NC part programs are verified through CNC train simulation package. The results are satisfactory. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Five-axis machining allows continuous adjustment of cutter orientation along a tool pass. Unfortunately, the flexibility has not been fully exploited due to the separate consideration of tool path generation and cutter orientation in current machining methods. This paper presents an integrated method (IM) for tool path generation, which is tightly integrated with the orientation strategy, to minimise tool path length under the constraint of smooth cutter orientation. Distinctively, cutter orientation along a tool pass is optimised by balancing considerations of maximum material removal and smoothness of cutter movement. Further, the intervals between successive tool passes are maximised according to the optimised orientation. In the paper, the IM is combined with the quadric method, a recently developed cutter orientation strategy, for iso-parametric machining with a flat-end cutter. However, the method could be applied to other orientation strategies with different machining mechanisms and cutter types. Simulated examples illustrate that the IM is more efficient in machining than established methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) software outputs machining data by encoding a tool-path into a series of G-codes which are composed of various lengths of line segments. The discontinuities of these line segments may cause inefficiency for computer numerical control (CNC) system. To achieve high-speed continuous motions, corner smoothing algorithms based on look-ahead methods are widely used. However, it is difficult to meet smoothing trajectories in real-time requirements. Based on machine learning method, in this paper, a support vector machine (SVM) system is presented for directly outputting classification results of the various geometric continuities at the transition corners. The feature values used for generating continuity classification model are extracted from sampling paths of the previous publication work: the machining parameters, length, fairness criteria, the root mean square (RMS) contour errors, and dominant stage type of movement of each sampling path are calculated. The acceleration/deceleration (ACC/DEC) feedrate planning scheme is used to determine the feedrate at the transition corners. Simulations and experiments show that the proposed algorithm can realize accurately and efficiently continuity classification in real-time requirements under the conditions of machining accuracy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In drilling, the tool path is usually generated according to the workpiece geometry and the arrangement of holes. To perform drilling, majority of Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM) software offer a set of predefined drilling strategies. In this context, tool traveling time between the holes is considered as a non-value-adding movement and thus must be minimized. However, generating the optimum tool path with the shortest possible traveling distance in the presence of obstacles received little attention and therefore, CAM-generated tool paths are not necessarily optimum. This paper introduces a new algorithm based upon Traveling Salesman Problem (TSP) to minimize the tool path length while considering collision avoidance. The developed optimization model considers multiple constraints, including the location of tool origin and the presence of obstacles along the tool path, to generate a collision-free trajectory with minimum length. Performance of the proposed model was compared to the tool path generated by HSMWorks CAM software and the results confirmed the ability of the algorithm in generating an optimum or near-optimum, collision-free tool path for real-world drilling applications with a minimal computational time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper has contributed a system to cost a model called total agile design system (TADS). Using TADS helps an organisation to design its products, processes and services to achieve agility by responding to the customers' dynamic demands. After the description of TADS, a costing system named as TADS-ABC has been introduced in this paper. As the name implies, this system has been designed to cost TADS using activity based costing (ABC) principles. After highlighting the theory, the practical application of TADS-ABC has been illustrated by substituting the relevant data derived from a TADS implementation study. This implementation study was conducted in an electronics switches manufacturing company. After processing using TADS-ABC, the specific costs to be incurred towards TADS activities, agile criteria and evolving products in an agile manner in the above company could be arrived at. The experiences of conducting this research have been used to evolve a roadmap for successfully implementing TADS-ABC in contemporary organisations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper describes the development of a web-based interference examination system in mould design processes. Although several commercial computer-aided design (CAD) systems offer interference inspection functions, those systems are very expensive and inadequate to perform collaborative works over the Internet. In this paper an efficient and precise hybrid interference examination algorithm applicable to multilevel assemblies is studied for injection mould design processes. In order to design a collaborative system over the distributed environment, lightweight CAD files produced from the optimally transformed CAD data through ACIS kernel and InterOp are applied to develop a web-based interference verification system. Collaborators related to the development of a new product can verify the interference over the Internet without commercial CAD systems. The system reduces production cost, errors and lead-time to the market. The validity of the developed system is confirmed through case studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Predicting the insulating thermal behavior of a multi-component refractory ceramic system could be a difficult task, which can be tackled using the finite element (FE) method to solve the partial differential equations of the heat transfer problem, thus calculating the temperature profiles throughout the system in any given period. Nevertheless, using FE can still be very time-consuming when analyzing the thermal performance of insulating systems in some scenarios. This paper proposes a framework based on a machine learning surrogate model to significantly reduce the required computation time for estimating the thermal performance of several multi-component insulating systems. Based on an electric resistance furnace case study, the framework estimated the feasibility and the final temperature of nearly 1.9 × 10 5 insulating candidates' arrangements with reasonable accuracy by simulating only an initial sample of 2.8 % of them via FE. The framework accuracy was evaluated by varying the initial sample size from ≈ 0.9 % to 8 % of total combinations, indicating that 3 % – 5 % is the optimal range in the case study. Finally, the proposed framework was compared to the evolutionary screening procedure, a previously proposed method for selecting insulating materials for furnace linings, from which it was concluded that the machine learning framework provides better control over the number of required FE simulations, provides faster optimization of its hyperparameters, and enables the designers to estimate the thermal performance of the entire search space with small errors on temperature prediction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper describes an alternative computer-aided design/ computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) technique for the creation of a combined prosthetic restoration with orthodontic appliance (PROA). This concept allows the use of orthodontic appliances such as brackets, attachments, or any other type of appliance over different types of prosthetic restorations. The PROA concept aims to mitigate problems associated with performing restorative treatment when orthodontic treatment is necessary. This proposed concept provides the clinicians with proper control and planning of the interdisciplinary treatment that will lead to the final tooth shape, form, and proportions while performing orthodontic tooth movements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This review aims to summarize the available technologies, material categories, and prosthodontic applications of additive manufacturing (AM) dental ceramics, evaluate the achievable accuracy and mechanical properties in comparison with current mainstream computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) subtractive manufacturing (SM) methods, and discuss future prospects and directions. Study selection: This paper is based on the latest reviews, state-of-the-art research, and existing ISO standards on AM technologies and prosthodontic applications of dental ceramics. PubMed, Web of Science, and ScienceDirect were amongst the sources searched for narrative reviews. Results: Relatively few AM technologies are available and their applications are limited to crowns and fixed partial dentures. Although the accuracy and strength of AM dental ceramics are comparable to those of SM, they have the limitations of relatively inferior curved surface accuracy and low strength reliability. Furthermore, functionally graded additive manufacturing (FGAM), a potential direction for AM, enables the realization of biomimetic structures, such as natural teeth; however, specific studies are currently lacking. Conclusions: AM dental ceramics are not sufficiently developed for large-scale clinical applications. However, with additional research, it may be possible for AM to replace SM as the mainstream manufacturing technology for ceramic restorations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents the methodology and theoretical foundation of topology optimization (TO) Results Spaceframe Interpreter, an automatic TO results interpreter that generates a closely associated space frame consisting of welded structural tubing or rectangular bars. TO is a computational technique that uses a finite element (FE) formulation to identify the most weight-efficient structure within a design domain. Density-based TO results in structures that take organic forms and is usually a tedious and cumbersome process to generate a computer-aided-design (CAD) model to manufacture through conventional techniques. The optimal topology frequently resembles a space frame, which is well-known as being a rigid, lightweight structure. The methodology of the TO results interpreter leverages several techniques from volumetric image processing and has four primary processes. First, the results are obtained from commercial FE/TO software and mapped into a cubic grid of voxels. Second, junction locations are extracted and member connectivity that represents a frame is identified. Third, a sizing optimization is incorporated to determine appropriate sectional dimensions of the circular or rectangular space frame members. Fourth, the optimized space frame geometry is imported into a CAD design tool to automatically create a design model. The logic and are implemented within the frame extraction processes. The automated TO interpreter is designed to interact with commercial FE analysis and CAD systems. The interpreter is demonstrated on various spatial examples including aerospace and automotive applications. In each case, the welded space frame closely resembles the TO result, with nearly equivalent stiffness and mass. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Typically, the final process in the manufacture of molds is mechanical polishing, a process predominantly conducted manually. This is an important process step to improve the surface quality of the mold without affecting the geometry of the cavity. Currently, the European mold manufacturing industry faces two challenges for the polishing phase of manufacture. Firstly, economics when compared to global low-cost production areas. Secondly, the industry is starting to suffer the loss of skilled benchmen specialized in performing such operations. To address these two problems, robotic polishing has been investigated as an alternative or supplement to the conventional manual polishing process in the manufacturing of molds because of its high efficiency, improved reliability, and robustness. This paper presented a new methodology that allows robotic polishing to replace majority of manual polishing work for the manufacture of molds and achieves complete information integration with current CAD/CAM systems. Based on a number of experimental works, the types of features that are suitable for robotic polishing have been identified and a new robotic polishing feature classification has been proposed. A new polishing process planning has been developed to be integrated with current CAD/CAM systems, which includes a robotic polishing process knowledge database; a polishing process selection method; and a polishing process sequencing using genetic algorithm aiming to combine minimum polishing time and the specific constraints and rules for polishing process sequencing. Finally, a case study based on the proposed methods has been given, which demonstrates the proposed methodology is able to be implemented in the practical environment to allow robotic polishing to take majority of manual polishing workloads for mold manufacturing and achieve information integration with current CAD/CAM systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In metal stamping development, stamping process planning plays quite an important role for the related die design. As mentioned in Part-I [Feature-based metal stamping part and process design. Part 1: stampability evaluation, 2007, 45, 2673-2695], the feature can encapsulate comprehensive engineering information; this paper proposes to realize stamping process planning based on feature mapping. A feature mapping system, between a stamping design feature space and a stamping process feature space, has been presented. The inherent mechanism of such feature mapping has been investigated with formal representations. The substance of feature mapping is the processing of related knowledge and information. Mapping rules are established to generate the stamping operation and stamping direction. Four mapping manners (direct mapping, conjugate mapping, syncretic mapping, and sequential mapping) are presented for generating the form of process feature, through geometrical information transformation from design features. Meanwhile, considering a stamping process plan as an ordered tree, this paper has introduced how to build a stamping process plan through organizing the stamping operations mapped from design features, and an illustrative example is demonstrated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper proposes a formal structure and framework for a robotic material handling (MH) equipment-level controller in a hierarchical shop floor control architecture. This framework essentially attempts to integrate shop-level process planning with material handling at the workplace. Handling operations are therefore integrated with manufacturing functions in order to ensure 'seamless' material transfer and processing. The responsibilities of the MH equipment controller include: interface with a MH robot; read and interpret handling plans from a database (in the form of an AND/OR graph); plan and schedule MH activities; perform path planning and grasp planning for the required task; generate generic robot-level commands automatically; and convert generic robot-level commands to robot-specific instructions. A MH equipment-level controller has been designed and implemented for a PUMA 560 robot in the CIM lab at the Pennsylvania State University. The proposed controller can work for various situations and job volumes. In addition, by creating the framework described in this paper, extending the concept for other parts and obstacles with various features, coordinating the vision system or the CAD system to the proposed controller, and combining complete path planning and grasp planning systems, a fully operational MH equipment-level controller can be realized. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The secondary development can realize the integration of commercial CAD and CAM/CAE software and has been widely used in the design of cutting tools. However, with the development of cutting tools design towards system integration, the integration effect cannot meet the needs of current tool design due to factors such as kernel and interface. Based on the independent semi open source modeling kernel Open CASCADE, this paper realizes the parametric design of solid end mills. The parametric design system of solid end mills is established by using Python as the underlying language and Python OCC. The system can generate data files, 2D drawings, and 3D models conforming to ISO 13399 standard and realize the cloud storage function of model data. The generated tool model data can be used for finite element simulation of cutting process, NC programming, and guiding tool manufacturing. Based on the established system, the centroid optimization of the imbalance characteristics of the variable pitch and variable helix end mill is carried out, which improves the dynamic balance of this type of cutter and provides an important reference value for the design of this type of cutter. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In traditional multi-axis machining, the linear tool path generated by computer-aided manufacturing systems is still in a broad tool path format, resulting in discontinuities at the corners, which slow down tool motion, and also trigger tool vibration, reducing machining accuracy and surface quality. In order to ensure the C3 continuity of the tool during the multi-axis machining process, this paper proposes an analytical B-spline local smoothing method with curvature control. The tool position trajectory and tool orientation are both smoothed by a 5th spline curve with 9 control points. Optimal control points are determined for position and orientation splines to achieve C3 continuity at the junctions between the spline and linear segment while preserving the predefined geometric tolerance limits and minimizing the maximum curvature of the inserted B-spline curve. The smoothed tool path is expected to have less curvature fluctuation, which can significantly improve both the kinematic performance of the machine tool and the machining efficiency. Both computer simulations and physical printing experiments are carried out to demonstrate the improvements of our proposed method in motion smoothness and tracking accuracy in multi-axis machining tasks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wood material is the foundation of wood structure architecture, and its production technology and equipment technology decide the development and upgrading of modern wood structure architecture. Aiming at the problems of low automation degree, low material utilization rate, low production efficiency and high labor costs in the process of traditional wood processing, we explore the integration and innovation of the traditional wood processing industry and modern industrial Internet information technology on the basis of studying the properties of Betula (Betula costata) solid wood materials, wood comprehensive utilization rate, wood structure component development and processing technology requirements, and form an intelligent, automatic and industrial production mode for building materials. Through technology and methods such as mechanical design, automation technology, machine vision, deep learning, optimization algorithm, electronic design automation, computer aided manufacturing, etc., the key technologies of intelligent automatic optimization of wood materials were studied, and intelligent automatic production lines of Betula species identification, log optimization sawing, solid timber longitudinal multiblade sawing, sawn timber quality detection and solid timber optimizing cross-cuts are built. Based on the machine vision method, features are extracted; a tree species, defect classification and recognition model database is established; an image processing algorithm with high recognition accuracy, as well as fast processing speed and high robustness are studied; non-destructive testing and classification methods of machine vision are optimized; key problems of online rapid classification, detection and optimization of sawing are solved and production quality and processing efficiency are improved. Finally, the timber defect detection accuracy and Betula timber yield are analyzed, and the comprehensive utilization value of optimized sawing timber is compared with the comprehensive utilization value of manually marking sawing timber. The processing cost and efficiency of Betula sawing timber with an intelligent automatic production line are calculated. The test results show that the average detection accuracy of timber defect type, size and location is 89.69%, 89.69%, 92.25% and 82.29%, respectively, and the detection stability is high. By adopting intelligent automatic detection, classification and optimization sawing production line of wood, the comprehensive utilization value of optimized sawing timber is 14.13% higher than that of manual marking sawing timber, and 16,089.29 m3 more building materials can be processed annually. In the process of intelligent automatic wood processing, the intelligent detection system is used to detect defects, improve production performance and production efficiency and reduce labor costs. Compared with the traditional wood processing process, the method studied in this paper is improved to optimize the production line processing performance and processing technology. The research and development of an intelligent automatic production system for solid wood can promote the application and development of an automatic industrial production mode for sawn timber for the wood structure construction industry, deepen the integration of artificial intelligence technology, Internet technology and the whole wood processing industry and lead the upgrading of building materials for wood structures to an intelligent manufacturing production mode. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As the fibula free flap became the gold standard in mandibular reconstruction that required both hard tissue and soft tissue, various methods have been sought to solve the height discrepancy between the mandible and fibula. The purpose of this paper was to propose a surgical option that combined the microvascular fibula free flap with a 3D-bioprinted, patient-specific polycaprolactone (PCL) implant as a safe and simple novel method that achieved the best functional and aesthetic results in mandibular reconstruction surgery for young patients with malignant tumors. The patient's reconstructed mandible maintained volume symmetry without any deformation or complications for over 6 years. Computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) and 3D printing technology enabled accurate and safe surgical results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]