Vector Field Guided Tool Paths for Five-Axis Machining

Abstract

Abstract. We propose a new framework for toolpath generation for 5 axis machining of part surfaces represented by the StereoLithography (STL) format. The framework is based on flattening the STL part and generation of curvilinear toolpaths adapted to the vector field of optimal directions. The experiments show that there is no universal sequence of steps applicable to every surface. However, a correct choice of the tools available within the proposed ACTframework always leads to a substantial improvement of the toolpath, in terms of its length and the machining time.6847 Stanislav S. Makhanov