Integrated system framework supporting concurrent engineering

This paper presents a concurrent engineering framework for CAD/CAPP/CAM integrated system, introduces the components of integration tools, integrated product information model, process model of product development, and cooperative work system of the framework. Under the unified user interface of the framework, multi-disciplinary team members can use their tools respectively to conduct concurrent product development. Each related element of product development begins cooperation from the outset and conducts the open and real time data exchanging and sharing. To evaluate and refine the product design and manufacture process as well as support activities, the team can hold multimedia meeting through multimedia network meeting system, and negotiate by using project coordination system.