Tool path generation for Loop subdivision surface based finish machining

Abstract

Both smooth design model and discrete machining model can be represented by the subdivision surface,which avoids the complex progress of model transformation. Subdivision surface can be used to generate a smooth limit surface on an arbitrary topology mesh,and thus has great advantage in modeling complex parts. In addition,it has great potential for applications in NC machining. The algorithm for tool path generation of finish machining based on Loop subdivision surface was investigated. The method of adaptive interpolation Loop subdivision surfaces was proposed to control the chord error between limit mesh and limit surface.The finish machining model was then decomposed into different regions by iso-slope curve tracing method,and different tool path patterns were calculated to obtain an even cusp height. Therefore,it is simple to generate the even cusp height tool path of the entire finish machining model,and the conflict between large-scale subdivision data and required high surface quality and precision is also solved. Milling test is implemented to verify the algorithm proposed.