Manufacturing feature recognition for mould and die designs: current status and future directions

Within the manufacturing domain the most important area of research related to pattern recognition is that of machine feature identification. The ability to correctly identify features in a design is the gateway to Computer Integrated Manufacture (CIM). The capability to take a computer constructed drawing or sketch and generate a program for a Computer Numerically Controlled (CNC) machined to produce the part. This has been an active research field since the mid 1990’s evolving from simple 2D features to the recognition of prismatic parts. The research presented in this chapter looks to identify approaches and methodologies for complex freeform, curved and interacting feature often associated with elements found in casting moulds and dies. The chapter identifies the needs related to moulds and dies and presents an overview of related technologies current employed. The approaches identified are demonstrated via figures of parts or elements taken from productions dies and moulds. These approaches and methods are critically appraised and their limitations highlighted. The chapter will also propose the best method for the recognition of such features and future areas for research are presented.