As AI transformation expands in manufacturing, intelligent technologies are increasingly applied to CNC machine tools and machining processes. In multi-product, small-batch production environments, frequent product changes require flexible and autonomous process planning. This study proposes a standard data integration-based intelligent process planning system that automatically performs the entire process from 3D model input to NC code generation. To enable intelligent process planning, data across all stages—from feature recognition to machining execution—must be integrated into a unified flow and connected with AI-based decision-making. The proposed system uses an ISO 14649-based XML schema to sequentially link data generated by each module, ensuring standardized information flow. Based on this framework, rulebased feature recognition, constraint-based process planning, and machine learning-based cutting condition optimization are implemented. A prototype system was developed to validate the approach, automatically generating NC code for industrial parts and performing actual CNC machining. Experimental results confirmed the feasibility and validity of the proposed system. This study demonstrates that standardized data integration combined with AI technologies can enable autonomous, flexible, and efficient process planning for advanced manufacturing environments.

We used a construction method using a CNC milling machine, where free-formed molds were made by cutting EPS (Expanded PolyStyrene) foam with the CNC machine, to build free-formed buildings. CNC milling is off-the-shelf technology that can easily cut EPS foam; however its production cost is too high and the time to manufacture an EPS mold is too long. This paper proposes a novel cutting machine with a fast and cost effective mechanism to manufacture EPS concrete molds. Our machine comprises a cutter and Cartesian coordinate type moving mechanism, where the cutter cuts EPS foam using a hotwire in the shape of ‘Π’ and is capable of adjusting its cutting angle in real-time while keeping its cutting width. We proved through cutting experiments on the CNC machine that cutting time was greatly shortened compared to the conventional method and that the resulting concrete mold satisfied manufacturing precision.