PAWS Off-Line Planning System - PC Based System

The purpose of this Phase I project is to develop a PC based interface between a CAD system and a PC computer for the eventual use on a PC based PAWS-OLPS. This objective will be met, and demonstrated, with file transfer of the translated CAD information from a PC to the existing PAWS-OLP System now, with the eventual goal of using the interface to talk to a PC based PAWS System developed in the Phase II effort. This system will be based on an "open" architecture, utilizing a number of standards related to this problem which already exist, or are under development. Project personnel will actively participate in the standards setting activities. The project objectives are: 1) Identify geometric information that can be extracted from standard CAD formats (IGES, PDES, etc.); 2) Determine the amount of other "non-geometric" process related data required; 3) Design and develop a Windows NT based system for maintaining geometric and non-geometric data and a translator that produces a data file from a CAD system using IGES 5.1 standard; 4) Test the system with the PAWS Controller; 5) Develop documentation according to Navy standards; 6) Participate actively on related standard committees. This effort includes, at no additional cost to the Government, cooperative work to ensure compatibility of the PC based PAWS-OLPS with the WeldExcell Robotics Workcell and an existing commercial flexible welding controller, in addition to the PAWS Robotics Workcell.