A re-configurable cross-sectional imaging system for reverse engineering based on a CNC milling machine

Abstract

This paper presents a novel reverse engineering digitizing system for full part geometry, which is based on a cross-sectional imaging device built in a NC milling machine. The system successively captures a picture for each planar cross-section contour of the part by end-milling and CCD imaging, and builds the geometry for both external and internal surfaces of the complex 3D part based on a set of the vectored cross-sectional contours. The system mainly consists of three components: a NC milling machine, a cross-sectional imaging device and a computer control unit. Some issues involving the principle and process flow of the system, encasing materials, cross-sectional imaging and NC code generation, etc. are described in detail. Built on an existing NC milling machine, a portable device for capturing the cross-sectional images is designed, which includes an isolated light source, a digital camera, a protective case, a rigid arm and a robust tripod. The device, connected to a computer control unit, serves as a highly flexible accessory for the NC milling machine, constructing the cross-sectional imaging system for reverse engineering. Furthermore, the error analysis and accuracy assessment of the system are also addressed. A typical case is discussed in detail to illustrate the applications of the system. Such a re-configurable digitizing system for reverse engineering offers a number of advantages, such as the functional extension of an existing NC milling machine, low costs, and rapid construction. As a result, this system provides a feasible and useful scheme for many enterprises to construct their own reverse measuring system based on existing equipment to aid in rapid product development and extend the function of existing equipment.