Non-linear assembly sequence planning for mechanical product

A relation code matrix model is proposed for non-linear assembly sequence planning. Through encoding, all assembly relation information is integrated into a simple matrix. The connection pattern, namely binary template, is used to identify the geometry constraints of parts during assembly planning. Based on the relation code matrix model, methods are devised to find a feasible assembly sequence, to test the stability of the part and to detect possible subassembly. Combined with these methods, genetic algorithm is employed to find the feasible and optimal assembly sequence. The individual sequence is represented by compound list. At last, an example is illustrated to test the validity of the proposed approach.