A tool path generation strategy for three-axis ball-end milling of free-form surfaces

Recently, polyhedral machining method has regained attention from NC programming software developers. Furthermore, the polyhedral model is becoming popular as a data exchange medium between different CAD/CAM systems. This paper presents a new method for tool path generation based on the following algorithms: The free-form surfaces are approximated by triangular meshes. The vertices of triangular meshes are offsetted along surface normal. All offset vertices are then connected to form offset triangular meshes on which are sliced by a group of planes to obtain tool paths. Computer implementations and illustrative examples are also presented in this paper. The proposed method can be used to improve and automate three-axis free-form surfaces machining for CAD/CAM systems.