5-Axis Control Tool Path Generation Using Curved Surface Interpolation

Abstract

In 5-axis control machining, it is important to reduce the processing time of generating interference-free tool path between tool and workpiece. Thus, the paper describes a method to determine interference-free tool postures, based on not every cutting point but every tool path. The method generates a ruled surface between an offset curve which sifts a cutting point curve by a tool radius against a surface to be machined, and one of parametric curves on an interference surface. A boundary tool locus which does not interfere with workpiece is generated by rotating the ruled surface, while moving control points on the surface. Tool postures corresponding to a cutting point curve are determined by appropriately selecting the curve within an area surrounded by two ruled surfaces. The curve implies a candidate of interference-free tool paths can be generated at high speed. The effectiveness of the proposed method was demonstrated by machining experiment of an impeller.