Tool Trajectory Error for Table-tilting Machines

Five-axis machining is the primary method for generating complex surfaces, such as the surfaces of turbine blades. These surfaces are machined by end-mill cutters along specified tool paths, which are generated only based on the geometry of the sculptured surface regardless the structural parameters. The step length of the tool paths directly affects the accuracy of the manufactured surface and machining time. Our research shows the trajectory of the cutters (or cut error) varies with different structures of machines, rotation angles, and rotation radii. Compared to traditional algorithms, simulation results show that the cut errors are reduced using our algorithm.