Abstract
The objective of this paper is to describe the general algorithms used to determine the specific location and orientation of modular fixture elements on a base-plate. The modular fixture elements are used with a base-plate to rigidly and accurately hold a workpiece in place for machining, assembly or inspection. These algorithms consider factors such as a workpiece shape, its machining processes and the fixture points of selected fixture elements (i.e., fixture configuration). Then, these input data and the modular fixture database are used to determine the feasible setups of fixture elements on equally-spaced dowel-pin holes of a base-plate. The system, which integrates with an existing CAD/CAM system, provides a 3-dimensional (3-D) graphic interface to simulate the fixture-workpiece layout. The graphic output of the system will assist tool engineers in creation, analysis, validation, and refinement of modular fixturing.