Using a Four-Dimensional Mesh Model to Represent a Tool Motion Trajectory in Five-Axis Machining

抄録

In the field of machining processes, three-Dimensional (3D) models are commonly used to simulate the motions of cutting tools and workpieces. However, it is difficult for 3D models to represent spatio-temporal changes in their shapes continuously and to a high degree of accuracy. The objective of this study is to represent the 5-axis cutting process of workpiece transformation explicitly using a spatio-temporal model, the “four-Dimensional (4D) mesh model.” Every 4D mesh model is defined with bounding tetrahedral cells, and can continuously represent spatio-temporal changes of shape, position and orientation. In this study, the five-axis cutting process is described using accumulated volumes of 4D mesh models. Accumulated volumes are total volumes determined by spaces through which the object has passed. The use of accumulated volumes enables us to record tool-swept volumes and material removal shapes. First, this report introduces a 4D mesh model and the development of a 4D mesh modeling system. Next, a method of representing accumulated volumes as 4D mesh models is proposed. Generated 4D models are observed as 3D models by means of cross-section extraction.