A computer simulation approach to machining complicated shapes, on an orthogonal 6-rod machine tool

Abstract

A computer simulation approach to machining a gear and cam by using a virtual orthogonal 6-rod machine tool is presented. First, based on Stewart's parallel mechanism, a virtual 3D orthogonal 6-rod machine tool with 6 degrees of freedom is created with advanced CAD software. Secondly, a 3D spur gear base and cam base are constituted. Thirdly, the gear base and cam base are assembled into a virtual orthogonal 6-rod machine tool with some auxiliary links and a new virtual 1-degree of freedom mechanism is created. Finally, using reversing motion analysis, the kinematic curves of the 6 rods and the feeding process are simulated and analyzed.