A STEP-based geometrical representation as part of product data model of a plastics part

Product Data Models are fast becoming important tools for CAD/CAM integration towards a CIM environment. A common information repository on product data would enable significant reductions in design-to-manufacture lead times, reduced costs and effort. However, its widespread implementation is restricted due to insufficient knowledge about the methodology and lack of suitable implementation tools. This paper describes a major government-funded research at the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia to assess the most efficient means of implementing the STEP-based Product Data Modeling methodology for the plastic injection molding industry. The research utilizes a proprietary software, ST-Developer, to develop the geometrical description of a particular plastic product based on the STEP standards. The geometrical description will be transferred into a CAD system to assist the design and machining of a suitable mold for the plastic product. Evaluation of the method with the ultimate aim of achieving automated data model transfer operation will be carried out together with the required implementation methods. The paper describes elements of the product data model of the plastic product, the software systems that will be used for the research and the research methodology. Current progress together with lessons gained so far are included in the discussions. Current indications are that the proposed methodology would give a significant contribution towards improving current design and manufacturing practices in the mold and die industry. (C) 1998 Elsevier Science S.A. All rights reserved.