抄録
One of the most important techniques in machining process is to produce a part with freeform surfaces that are widely used in modern CAD/CAM systems. To manufacture the freeform surfaces, three-axis computer numerical control (CNC) milling machines with ball-end cutters are frequently utilized. The utilization of CNC machines for freeform surfaces has driven extensive research work, especially in the area of tool path generation. In order to generate the efficient tool path for the CNC machine, the relationship between the machining time and the scallop height is studied in this research. There are several tool path patterns in actual machining process, but it is difficult to select the appropriate path pattern from the point of the productivity and surface integrity. The selection method of path pattern is proposed considering the normal direction of surface and the scallop height. Through the simulation and experimental results, it is confirmed that the method proposed here is available to evaluate the machining time and to optimize the tool path generation.
