Milling Tool Path Generation for Interior Regions
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for generating tool paths for milling a workpiece region using numerical control machines result in inefficient material removal due to lengthy transition passes that do not remove material, limiting the overall material removal efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus for generating a tool path that includes generating arcs with in-process material boundaries tangent to the workpiece sides and connecting them with transition passes, optimizing the stepover value to minimize non-material removing passes and maximize material removal efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of stationary object
If circular tool passes with long transition passes are used to mill interior regions, then tool life is extended, but material removal efficiency is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies curvature by using circular tool passes to mill interior regions of workpieces. The circular path allows the tool to maintain consistent engagement with the material, distributing wear evenly across the tool circumference and extending tool life while effectively removing material from complex interior geometries.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs preliminary action through transition passes that position the tool at the correct location and orientation before material removal begins. These preparatory moves ensure the tool is properly aligned and ready for efficient material removal, optimizing both tool life and productivity.
2Reliability
If long transition passes are used to return the tool between material removing passes, then the tool can complete all cutting passes, but the length of tool path used for material removal is reduced to about half
Solution Approach 1:
The patent strives for continuity of useful action by minimizing non-cutting transition passes and maximizing the proportion of tool path dedicated to material removal. The circular tool passes are designed to flow continuously into and out of material engagement, reducing idle movement and maintaining productive cutting action throughout the operation.
Data Source
AI summary
A method is disclosed for generating a tool path for milling a region of a workpiece having first, second and third sides. The method includes: generating a first arc having a corresponding in-process material boundary intersecting the first side and which is tangent to the second side and to the third side; generating a succession of one or more second arcs, having a corresponding in-process material boundary which intersects the first side, is parallel to the first arc, and progresses by a corresponding first predetermined value from the first arc toward the first side until the in-process material boundary corresponding to one of the second arcs has a maximum distance from the first side less than the first predetermined value; and thereafter generating a succession of transition passes connecting each one of the second arcs end to end with the first arc to form the tool path.