Integration of scheduling with computer aided process planning

Computer aided process planning (CAPP) and scheduling are two major activities in a modern manufacturing system. The existing CAPP systems have not taken account of shop floor conditions while developing process plans. This paper discusses the importance of integration of scheduling and CAPP and proposes a method for the same. There can be several methods to machine a part and several machines capable of performing the process required to complete the part. Based on this concept, this paper suggests a method of scheduling and its integration with CAPP, so that on-line process plan can be generated taking into account the availability of machines and alternative routes. A scheduling factor for an operation and machine combination has been defined taking into consideration the actual working conditions and capabilities of the machines. Finally operation–machine assignment is made on the basis of these actual scheduling factors. This helps in generating more realistic process plans and helps in improving the efficiency of the manufacturing system as a whole. # 2003 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.