A reactionary process planning algorithm for an unconstrained hybrid process integrating additive, subtractive and inspection processes

The application of present state of the art manufacturing processes has always been constrained by the capabilities either from technical limitations such as limited materials and complex part geometries or production costs. As a result, hybrid manufacturing processes - where varied manufacturing operations are carried out - are emerging as a potential evolution for the current manufacturing technologies. However, there are limited process planning methods that are able to effectively utilize manufacturing resources for hybrid processes. In this paper, a hybrid process entitled iAtractive, combining additive, subtractive and inspection processes, along with part specific process planning is proposed. The iAtractive process aims to accurately manufacture complex geometries without being constrained by the capability of individual additive and subtractive processes. This process planning algorithm enables a part to be manufactured in a way that takes into consideration, process capabilities, production time and material consumption. This approach is also adapted for the remanufacture of existing parts.