Identification and optimization of design parameters based on workpiece geometry for flexible automated fixturing

A `fixture' is a device that performs the task of workholding in a manufacturing fabrication or assembly operation. Traditionally, fixtures have been designed and manufactured as single-purpose devices for specific parts and manufacturing operations. Flexible fixturing technology involves employing a single fixturing system to hold workpieces of various shapes and sizes within a family. Research in flexible fixturing has generally been limited to the automated design of modular fixture layouts. Identification and development of the formulation for the design of hardware which generally consists of a fixture base and fixture modules have received little attention. This paper presents identification and formulations to evaluate overall design parameters of reconfigurable fixture hardware for panel-type workpieces such as automotive, and aerospace components. Strategies for the selection of the design parameters for the reconfigurable fixturing approach appropriate for such workpieces are then developed. Formulations for optimization constraints for these design parameters based on the geometrical aspects of the workpieces are introduced. These formulations will allow an early prediction and modification of these parameters, so that the hardware can be designed to accommodate greater number of workpieces.