Automated extraction of dimensional inspection features from part computer-aided design models

Metrological inspection planning is among the least explored computer-aided process planning (CAPP) domains. This paper examines the basic issues involved in automated dimensional inspection planning that works within an environment of a generic CAPP support system. A new algorithmic approach based on multi-attributed spatial graphs is developed for extracting inspection features. The features of specific interest to the planner are selected by applying a sequential filtering method. The method is capable of extracting many common types of inspection features (polyhedral, cylindrical and free-form) found in industrial practice.