Computerized Similarity Analysis of Parts for Supporting Group Technology

Abstract

Group Technology (GT) is a comprehensive organizing principle of part manufacturing which can be utilized both in design and technology processes of parts as well as in the course of real manufacturing processes, too. The base of GT is similarity of the most important macro-geometrical and technological features of parts. The paper deals with grouping the parts according to similarity which is the first major activity area indispensable for initiating GT. It shows an algorithm suitable for solving two basic tasks: (1) To form groups from a given part set automatically such a way that within each group (class) the deviation between the numerical values allocated to two optional parts on the base of the same similarity parameters should be less than a given value; (2) To insert a new part into that group (class) which is the most adequate to it on the base of its properties taking into consideration a previously ordered part set and to create a new group (class) if inserting is not successful, respectively.The paper also outlines the fuzzy method constituting the mathematical base of the algorithm and gives a brief summary about the computer program realizing the algorithm in the present phase of development.