Kinetics of tool edge fixed flexibly

In the paper, a new approach to the description of the tool edge behaviour fixed flexibly has been presented; the behaviour is considered from the viewpoint of mechanics of this element of the tool–workpiece system. The novelty relies on starting from the very source of the phenomenon, which is the path length of the tool fixed flexibly. Though this novelty is considered in the machining/cutting field, it may be developed to the area where the interaction of elastic bodies occurs. In the framework of the paper, the kinetics of the tool edge fixed flexibly is considered. Before entering that subject problem, a literature background has been presented by providing some examples referring to the different flexible machining systems considered. Furthermore, coming out of a source differential equation, the length of path of the tool edge in three particular kinetic zones has been described. The following are the characteristic zones: in-depth zone, reaction zone and coasting zone. Then, two further kinetic characteristics have been described; they form the following dependences, respectively: the edge velocity on time, and the acceleration of that magnitude, as an independent variable. At the end, the spacious results of the experimental verification of the kinetics of the tool edge fixed flexibly have been presented. In the summary, it has been indicated that the presented problem is the initial point to further analyses concerning both the edge dynamics and energetics of such a fixed tool. Of course, that forms a basis to determine also the characteristics resulting from the resistance and reaction of the machined material.