Tool Path Interpolation for Machining Non-Parallel Surfaces
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Solution Overview
Problem
When machining workpieces with non-parallel reference planes, existing methods result in longer machining times and rough surfaces due to the need for multiple contour lines that are not parallel to the reference planes.
Innovation Solution
A method is developed to generate a tool path by setting a first and second non-parallel reference plane, interpolating multiple third reference planes between them, and creating partial tool paths based on these planes to connect them sequentially, allowing for parallel tool paths on conflicting surfaces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If contour lines are set parallel to one reference plane when machining workpieces with non-parallel reference planes, then the machining process becomes simpler, but the other reference plane cannot be properly machined requiring multiple contour lines which increases machining time and produces rough surfaces
Solution Approach 1:
The workpiece is divided into multiple regions based on different reference planes. Each region is machined using contour lines parallel to its corresponding reference plane, allowing each segment to be optimized independently rather than using a single global reference plane for the entire workpiece
Solution Approach 2:
Different reference planes are applied to different local regions of the workpiece. The contour lines are set parallel to the local reference plane for each region, ensuring optimal machining quality for each specific area rather than using a uniform approach for the entire workpiece
2Manufacturing precision
If multiple contour lines are used to machine the end with non-parallel reference plane, then both reference planes can be machined, but the machining time increases and surface quality deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The machining process is segmented into multiple operations, each dedicated to a specific reference plane. By dividing the workpiece into regions and machining each region with contour lines parallel to its local reference plane, the system achieves high surface quality for each region without requiring excessive multiple contour lines across the entire workpiece
Solution Approach 2:
The reference plane selection is made dynamic and adaptive based on the local geometry and requirements of each workpiece region. Instead of using a fixed global reference plane, the system dynamically selects the appropriate reference plane for each local region, optimizing both surface quality and machining efficiency
Data Source
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AI summary
This method for generating a tool path for processing a workpiece is provided with: a step for setting a first reference plane (RS1) with respect to the workpiece; a step for setting, with respect to the workpiece, a second reference plant (RS2) which is not parallel to the first reference plane (RS1); a step for interpolating, on the basis of the first reference plane (RS1) and the second reference plane (RS2), a plurality of third reference planes (RS3), which are not parallel to each other, between the first reference plane (RS1) and the second reference plane (RS2); a step in which partial tool paths for processing the workpiece are generated for each of the plurality of third reference planes (RS3) on the basis of the corresponding third reference plane (RS3); and a step for generating a tool path by sequentially connecting the partial tool paths of the plurality of third reference planes (RS3).