Skip to main content
Log in

Implementation of the principal-axis method for machining of complex surfaces

  • Published:
The International Journal of Advanced Manufacturing Technology Aims and scope Submit manuscript

Abstract

In this paper a new strategy for 5-axis machining of complex surfaces is presented. The method uses curvature alignment and matching between the design surface and the cutting tool to improve surface finish and reduce machining time. The method is implemented on two configurations of 5-axis machines, and used to machine a test surface. The results of the tests show a considerable improvement over conventional 3-axis machining.

This is a preview of subscription content, log in via an institution to check access.

Access this article

Price excludes VAT (USA)
Tax calculation will be finalised during checkout.

Instant access to the full article PDF.

Similar content being viewed by others

References

  1. G. Farin,Curves and Surfaces for CAGD, Academic Press, San Diego, CA, 1992.

    Google Scholar 

  2. I. D. Faux and M. J. Pratt,Computational Geometry for Design and Manufacture, Ellis Horwood, West Sussex, UK, 1979.

    Google Scholar 

  3. M. Hoska,Modeling of Curves and Surfaces in CAD/CAM, Springer-Verlag, Berlin, Heidelberg, 1992.

    Google Scholar 

  4. US Department of Commerce,The Initial Graphics Exchange Specifications (IGES) Version 5.0, NISTIR 4412, 1990.

  5. T. Altan, B. W. Lilly, J. P. Kruth, W. König, H. K. Tönshoff, C. A. van Luttervelt and A. B. Khairy, “Advanced techniques for die and mold manufacturing”,Annals of the CIRP,42(2), pp. 707–715, 1993.

    Google Scholar 

  6. H. D. Cho, Y. T. Jun and M. Y. Yang, “Five-axis CNC milling for effective machining of sculptured surfaces”,International Journal of Production Research,31(11), pp. 2259–2573, 1993.

    Google Scholar 

  7. G. W. Vickers, S. Bedi and R. Haw, “The definition and manufacture of compound curvature surfaces using G-surf”,Computers in Industry,6(3), pp. 173–183, 1985.

    Google Scholar 

  8. G. W. Vickers and K. Quan, “Ball-mills versus end-mills for curved surface machining”,ASME Journal of Engineering for Industry,111(22), February 1989.

  9. C. G. Jensen and D. C. Anderson, “Accurate tool placement and orientation for finish surface machining”,Journal of Design and Manufacturing,3(4), pp. 251–261, 1993.

    Google Scholar 

  10. C. G. Jensen, S. H. Mullins and D. C. Anderson, “Scallop elimination based on precise 5-axis tool placement, orientation, and step-over calculations”,ASME Advances in Design Automation, DE65(2), pp. 535–544, 1993.

    Google Scholar 

  11. S. Bedi, S. Gravelle and Y. H. Chen, “Principle curvature alignment technique for machining complex surfaces”,ASME Journal of Engineering for Industry (submitted).

  12. S. Sakamoto and I. Inasaki, “Analysis of generating motion for five-axis machining centers”,Transactions of NAMRI/SME,21, pp. 287–293, 1993.

    Google Scholar 

  13. K. I. Kim and K. Kim, “Parametric tool path planning based on new variable step strategy for sculptured surfaces”,Transactions of NAMRI/SME,21, pp. 95–102, 1993.

    Google Scholar 

  14. P. Broomhead and M. Edkins, “Generating NC data at the machine tool for the manufacture of free-form surfaces”,International Journal of Production Research,24(1), pp. 1–14, 1986.

    Google Scholar 

Download references

Author information

Authors and Affiliations

Authors

Rights and permissions

Reprints and permissions

About this article

Cite this article

Rao, N., Bedi, S. & Buchal, R. Implementation of the principal-axis method for machining of complex surfaces. Int J Adv Manuf Technol 11, 249–257 (1996). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01351282

Download citation

  • Issue Date:

  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01351282

Keywords

Navigation