As a result of slicing a 3D part into 2D pockets for generating tool paths, pockets are becoming more commonly used. When a pocket is machined, the question of which of the many feasible tools for cutting the pocket is best always arises. Will cutting be more efficient if multitools are used? Will the algorithm to choose the optimal tools be timesaving enough? This paper presents a method in which an upper bound O(N) is used to choose the optimal cutting tool combination, where N is the number of feasible tools available. The proposed method is quick and sufficient for computer-aided process planning (CAPP) and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) environments.

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When converting CC data (cutter contact point data) into CL data (cutter location data) for tool-path generation for arbitrary pockets, overcut avoidance plays an important role in CNC pocket milling. Complicated calculations of the selfintersections in the offset of spiral cutting is one of the main considerations in some algorithms. This study presents a quasioffset method to solve complicated self-intersection calculations. Instead of using offsetting methods, the proposed method uses the location points and their track types to generate the son loop. The proposed quasi-offset method also makes it much easier to generate spiral tool paths.

Cycloidal gear drives have advantages of compact sizes, large reduction ratios, and low backlash. They are particularly suitable for applications in precise positioning and large output torque, such as industrial robots and machine tools. Up to now, the effective precision evaluation of cycloidal gears is lacked in commercial measuring devices. The main goal of this paper is to propose precision evaluation for cycloidal gears. The research focuses on (1) establishing a mathematical model of cycloidal gear and (2) developing a method for precision evaluation of cycloidal gear. The evaluation items cover the following areas of tooth profile and thickness errors, pitch errors, accumulation pitch errors and runout. The profile points measured by a coordinate measuring machine are divided into tooth groups and then formulated as curves using a B-spline curve fitting technique. The precision of cycloidal gear can be further evaluated. A case study on Nabtesco RV-25N is displayed to verified the correctness of the proposed method.

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