Towards Predictive Design: Tracking a CNC Fixture Design Process to Identify the Requirements

Training novice production engineers to design manufacturing fixtures is a time-consuming process involving significant input from experienced experts. Motivated by the vision of providing an intelligent support system for general mechanical design, this paper develops list requirements predictive suggestion mechanisms focused on creating holding components during machining. To do this, email communications between nine novices and one expert machining were studied. The analysis classified expert’s feedback into ten coded themes. significance these themes was assessed quantifying resulting changes in CAD models designs fixture requirements. identified results lay foundation developing comprehensive design. Novice designers will benefit correcting their errors real-time reducing need experts’ time training process.