Development of haptic CAM system for 5-axis machining

This paper deals with the method of tool path generation on CAM system for 5-axis machining using a concept of haptic virtual reality. 5-axis machining has been used for complicated shapes such as turbine blades, molds and dies due to the efficient and accurate machining. However, present CAM systems for 5-axis machining lacks in generality and functions for the tool path generation. Especially, the interference between a tool and surrounding objects in computing the tool path is still a big problem. The method of tool path generation devised in this study uses operator's assistance. In this CAM system, first of all, the operator inputs information of suitable tool posture for all polygons constructing object shape. After that, the CAM system can compute a tool path without repetitive algorithms because tool posture avoids interference have been already input the system. Using a haptic device and a newly developed rapid interference detection algorithm, it is possible to touch the surface of the object, and easily input information of suitable tool posture into the CAM system. From the experimental results, the validity of the method is confirmed.