Need for technique to dig curved tunnnel into metal is becoming increase. For example, in a field of the mould injection, they expect such a technique to appear, because it will improve the precision of injection. However, no study has been done to realize it for now.
This paper deals with this new technique making use of EDM. we name it “Mole-EDM” for it is like a mole digging a tunnel into the ground.
In this paper, the mechanism and the way of control are explained. The Mole-EDM machime's shape is like a bar which can be bent, and the SMA (shape memory alloy) is used as an actuater. This time the ultrasonic wave is used to detect the form of tunnels digged by the Mole-EDM.