Optimization of process planning for the manufacture of injection mold components using genetic algorithm

摘要

This paper reports the development of an optimization method for the selection of machine tools, cutting tools and cutting conditions for an automated process planning system, IMOLD_CAPP, for the manufacture of injection mold components. The objective function of optimization is to minimize overall processing time. In the proposed approach, the process-types and their sequences for a particular type of mold component are kept fixed in plan templates based on the company practice, while selection of machine tools, cutting tools, and cutting conditions for different process methods in the plan template are optimized by a method based on genetic algorithm (GA). This generic method is expected to be applicable in any mold shop based on their available machining resources.