GPU-based Optimization of Tool Path Planning in 5-Axis Flank Milling

5-axis machining technology has received much attention since the late 90’s. It offers better machining efficiency and superior shaping capability compared with 3-axis machining. Machining error control is considered to be a challenging task in 5-axis flank milling of complex geometries. Previous studies have shown that optimized tool path planning is a feasible approach to reduction of the machining error. However, the error estimation is very time-consuming in the optimization process, thus limiting the practicality of the approach. In this work, we apply GPU computing technology to solve this problem. A PSO-based optimization scheme is developed to generate a series of cutter locations corresponding to a globally minimized machining error. The error induced by each cutter location is simultaneously calculated by the parallel processing units in GPU. This significantly accelerates the search process in the optimization scheme, while the optimal solution remains the same as that obtained by CPU. Our test result demonstrates the potential of improving the computational efficiency in CAD/CAM using GPU.

[1]  Xiong-Wei Liu,et al.  Five-axis NC cylindrical milling of sculptured surfaces , 1995, Comput. Aided Des..

[2]  Chih-Hsing Chu,et al.  Optimized tool path generation based on dynamic programming for five-axis flank milling of rule surface , 2008 .

[3]  Sanjeev Bedi,et al.  Triple tangent flank milling of ruled surfaces , 2004, Comput. Aided Des..

[4]  J. W. Park,et al.  Cutter-location data optimization in 5-axis surface machining , 1993, Comput. Aided Des..

[5]  Joost Duflou,et al.  A geometric modeling and five-axis machining algorithm for centrifugal impellers , 1997 .

[6]  James Kennedy,et al.  Particle swarm optimization , 2002, Proceedings of ICNN'95 - International Conference on Neural Networks.

[7]  Der Min Tsay,et al.  Accurate 5-Axis Machining of Twisted Ruled Surfaces , 2001 .

[8]  Chih-Hsing Chu,et al.  Tool path planning for 5-axis flank milling of ruled surfaces considering CNC linear interpolation , 2012, J. Intell. Manuf..

[9]  Claire Lartigue,et al.  Tool path deformation in 5-axis flank milling using envelope surface , 2003, Comput. Aided Des..

[10]  Chih-Hsing Chu,et al.  Efficient tool path planning for 5-axis flank milling of ruled surfaces using ant colony system algorithms , 2011 .

[11]  Chih-Hsing Chu,et al.  Tool Path Planning for 5-Axis Flank Milling Based on Dynamic Programming Techniques , 2008, GMP.

[12]  Robert B. Jerard,et al.  5-axis Machining of Sculptured Surfaces with a Flat-end Cutter , 1994, Comput. Aided Des..

[13]  Chih-Hsing Chu,et al.  Tool path planning for five-axis flank milling with developable surface approximation , 2006 .

[14]  Johanna Senatore,et al.  Improved positioning for side milling of ruled surfaces: Analysis of the rotation axis's influence on machining error , 2007 .