Energy-efficient vector field based toolpaths for CNC pocketmachining

Abstract

We propose a novel method to generate 2.5D CNC milling toolpaths that have characteristics designed for reducing energy usage. The energy consumed in multi-axis CNC milling is a function of the toolpath, component geometry, CNC machine construction, and the tool (cutter) itself. In this work, we focus solely on the toolpath geometry and propose a new method that, when all other factors are held constant, can result in toolpaths that require less energy for milling out the same pocket geometry. This strategy is based on selectively relaxed vector fields, specifically designed for the component to be machined. Pilot results comparing a toolpath generated using the proposed strategy to those generated using commercial CAM software indicate the potential for substantial savings in energy usage.