5-Axis Control Tool Path Generation Using Curved Surface Interpolation

In 5-axis control machining, it is important to reduce the processing time of generating interference-free tool path between a tool and a workpiece. Thus, the paper describes a method to determine interference-free tool posture, based on not every cutting point but every path. The system generates a ruled surface between an offset curve from cutting points and a parametric curve on an interference surface. Rotation of the ruled surface by moving control points on it allows a boundary tool locus, which does not interfere with a workpiece. Tool postures corresponding to a cutting point curve are rapidly determined by appropriately selecting the curve within the area surrounded by two ruled surfaces. The effectiveness of the proposed method is demonstrated by making a cutting experiment of an impeller.