The prediction of dimensional error for sculptured surface productions using the ball-end milling process. Part 2: Surface generation model and experimental verification

Abstract

This paper presents a surface generation model for sculptured surface productions using the ball-end milling process. In this model, machining errors caused by tool deflections are studied. As shown in Part 1 of this paper, instantaneous horizontal cutting forces can be evaluated from the cutting geometries using mechanistic force models. In this paper, a tool deflection model is developed to calculate the corresponding horizontal tool deflection at the surface generation points on the cutter. The sensitivity of the machining errors to tool deflections, both in magnitude and direction, has been analyzed via the deflection sensitivity of the surface geometry. Machining errors are then determined from the tool deflection and the deflection sensitivity of the designed surface. The ability of this model in predicting dimensional errors for sculptured surfaces produced by the ball-end milling process has been verified by a machining experiment. In addition to providing a means to predict dimensional accuracy prior to actual cutting, this surface generation model can also be used as a tool for quality control and machining planning.