Optimum 3D fixture layout design

Fixture layout is the fundamental task of fixture design, to determine the number, type, and location of the basic fixturing elements of locators, supports, and clamps, as opposed to the detailed design of the fixture assembly. This paper describes an approach based on a novel technique of optimal pursuit to the layout problem. The focus of the paper is on effective fixture modeling and efficient numerical techniques for automatically generating, analyzing, and optimizing fixture layout designs for any complex-shaped 3D workpieces