A An algorithm for three-axis NC tool path generation on sculptured surfaces is presented. Non-constant parameter tool contact curves are defined on the part by intersecting parallel planes with the part model surface. Four essential elements of this algorithm are introduced: initial chordal approximation, true machining error calculation, direct gouge elimination, and non-constant parameter tool pass interval adjustment. A software implementation of this algorithm produces graphical output depicting the tool path superimposed over the part surface, and it outputs cutter location (CL) data for further postprocessing. Several applications examples are presented to demonstrate the capabilities of the algorithm. The results of this technique are compared to those generated from a commercially available computer-aided manufacturing program, and indicate that equivalent accuracy is obtained with many fewer CL points.
A system of algorithms is presented for material removal simulation, dimensional error assessment and automated correction of Þve-axis numerically controlled (NC) milling tool paths. The methods are based on a spatial partitioning technique which incorporates incremental proximity calculations between milled and design surfaces. Hence, in addition to real-time animated Þve-axis milling simulation, milling errors are measured and displayed simultaneously. Using intermediate error assessment results, a reduction of intersection volume algorithm is developed to eliminate gouges on the workpiece via tool path correction. Finally, the view dependency typical of previous spatial partitioning-based NC simulation methods is overcome by a contour display technique which generates parallel planar contours to represent the workpiece, thus enabling dynamic viewing transformations without reconstruction of the entire data structure.
Keywords
Iowa Center for Emerging Manufacturing Technology, Virtual Reality Applications Center
Disciplines
Computer-Aided Engineering and Design | Graphics and Human Computer Interfaces
CommentsThis is a manuscript of a conference proceeding from Proceedings SIGGRAPH '94 (1994SIGGRAPH '94 ( ): 287, doi:10.1145. Posted with permission.
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