The complexity analysis of a machining error propagation network and its application

Abstract

There are some complicated interactions among different stages in multistage machining processes (MMPs), so it is important and necessary to explore the inherent mechanism of machining error propagation for improving product quality. With respect to this issue, a machining error propagation network (MEPN) of MMPs is proposed and its complexity is discussed. In order to establish this MEPN, the machining form feature (MFF) of the workpiece, machine tool, fixture, and cutting tool (i.e. machining element, ME) are defined as different network nodes. The associated relationship among different nodes is mapped by graph theory, according to the computer aided process planning (CAPP) information of the workpiece. Based on this, complex networks theory is introduced to analyse the characteristics of the established MEPN, and several measuring indices of error propagation at different nodes are proposed to quantify the interactions among different nodes. The synthesized propagation index (SPI) is then established to identify the key nodes and the SPI variation curve is used to quantify these key nodes' influences on the MEPN. Finally, a box part of a missile launcher is used to illustrate the proposed methods.

Risk Evaluation for a Manufacturing Process Based on a Directed Weighted Network

“…Wang et al [ 15 ] proposed an extended machining error propagation network model to quantitatively analyze the complex coupling relationship in the small-batch, multistage machining process of aircraft landing gear parts. Liu et al [ 16 ] used a machining error propagation network of multistage machining processes to describe complicated interactions among different stages. Cheng and Chu [ 17 ] proposed a network-based assessment approach for change impacts on complex products, and three changeability indices were presented.…”

An Enhanced DMAIC Method for Feature-Driven Continuous Quality Improvement for Multi-Stage Machining Processes in One-of-a-Kind and Small-Batch Production

“…Then the influence of cutters, fixtures, and machines has also been studied with variation propagation modelling [14]. Complex system theory and complex network also play an important role in the M/S/O machining process, which can be seen as a systematic way in modelling the whole processes considering various variables digitally in MWs [15]- [17]. This method had made a progress with high technical bottleneck, which a firm or a workshop cannot carry out immediately.…”

Complex networks in advanced manufacturing systems

“…A weighted network is introduced, and the variation propagation stability of MMPs is analyzed by the virus spreading model based on complex networks [38][39]. Similarly, complex networks are introduced to describe these interactions and the error propagation in MMPs [40][41][42].…”

“…Finding: In the 12 papers on this topic (8% of the selected papers) [38][39][40][41][42][43][44][45][46][47][48][49], the network models of multistage machining processes are proposed by combining the real network characteristics with complex networks theory. The variation propagation and quality control for multistage machining processes based on a number of measurement indicators are analyzed.…”