Methods for finding different Part family

1.Visual Inspection
It is the least sphosticated and least expensive method. It involves classification of parts into family by looking either the physical parts or photograghs and arranging them into similar group.
2.Production flow analysis (PFA)
It is a method of identifying part family and associated machine tool grouping by analysing the route sheet (process planning) for parts produced in a given machine shop. It groups together the parts that have similar operation sequence and machine routings. The disadvantages is it blindly accept the excisting route sheet without considering whether they are logical or consistent.
3.Parts Classification and Coding
We are considering both the design and manufacturing attitudes of each Parts.
Design Attitudes:-basic internal shape and external shape,Length of dia. ratio,material type,tolerance
Manufacturing Attitudes:-major process,minor process,batch size,machine tool used,surface finish