Hierarchical Fuzzy Primitive Surface Classification From Tessellated Solids for Defining Part-to-Part Removal Directions

Abstract

This paper is arranged in three main sections: the first section is a hierarchical method based on clustering and a fuzzy membership system where the tessellated three-dimensional (3D) models are classified into their containing primitives: cylinder, cone, sphere, and flat. In the second section, automated assembly planning (AAP) is considered as the main application of our novel hierarchical primitive classification approach. The classified primitives obtained from the first section are used to define the removal directions between mating parts in an assembly model. Finally, a fuzzification method is used to express the uncertainty of the detected connections between every pair of parts. The acquired uncertainties are used in a user interaction process to approve, deny, or modify the connections with higher uncertainties.