Improving trochoidal tool paths generation and implementation using process constraints modelling

Abstract

With the emergence of high dynamic machine tools equipped with performing NC controllers, new types of strategies have risen to meet the demands associated to high-speed milling process. Among them, trochoidal tool paths are applied in rough machining applications. In this paper several improvements for their implementation are proposed. First, maximal radial depth of cut calculation according to tool path parameterization is made. Two interpolation models are tested and compared. The aim is to select the best tool path parameters according to the process constraints. Then, improved tool path generation for pocket milling applications is proposed. An experimental study is performed to validate the proposed approach and study the efficiency of trochoidal tool path implementation for pocket milling applications. The impact of the dynamics of the machine tool is evaluated in particular. The work presented here leads consequently to enhancement of implementation of trochoidal tool paths according to process constraints.