3D Model Construction of Cutting Tools and Identification of Workpieces Using Machine Vision for Virtual Machining Simulation

Abstract

In virtual machining simulation to verify NC programs for machining operation, construction of 3D (three-dimensional) models of cutting tools to be used and identification of posture and position of workpiece to be machined are quite important to achieve reliable verification. Especially, a 3D model construction of cutting tools requires skill-full operations and it takes much time and cost. Several geometric parameters to define cutting tool shapes are needed to construct precise 3D models for virtual machining simulation. Even though, careless mistake to set parameters of tool diameter and length causes machining troubles. Therefore, no trouble was happened in virtual machining simulation, it is still required to check machining troubles through the trial-cutting on actual NC machine tools. In this paper, new methods to construct 3D models of cutting tools and identification of posture and position of workpiece are proposed. Experimental measurement of cutting tool shape is performed on the machine tool using a CCD camera, and a 3D model of cutting tool was constructed successfully. By this method, setting of invalid parameters to define cutting tool shapes can be avoided. Also, posture and position of the workpiece can be identified successfully. These parameters can be used to detect wrong setup operation before actual machining operation.