Title: Automation of Quality Assurance of Numerical Control Data using Knowledge Based Engineering Applications

Authors: Tory R. Whitcomb, Donald J. Hinson, Karin E. Cowdrey, and Frank P. Wiesner

DOI: 10.33599/nasampe/c.19.0771

Abstract: With the increased use of Automated Fiber Placement (AFP) machines, validating the quality of Numerical Control (NC) data is needed to show that all engineering requirements are met in the layup process. Requirements include the external and internal boundaries of each ply, fiber orientation, rules for manufacturing excess, and gaps/overlaps in the individual tows. Engineering intent such as hole locations, diameters, directions, and profile cutting must also be validated. Automated methods are needed to read Machine Control Data (MCD) files and compare them to the engineering design. Additionally, new machines being added introduce new formats and contents of machine control data that has to be validated. The cost of manual validation of the NC data would be cost prohibitive and time consuming. Applications are being developed and enhanced to validate the MCD to "overlay" onto engineering geometry. As new machines are being introduced, the applications are updated to the new format and content. Methods for automating the validation of NC data is needed to save time, improve quality, and meet contractual obligations.

References:

Conference: CAMX 2019

Publication Date: 2019/09/23

SKU: TP19-0771

Pages: 12

Price: $24.00