AN INTEGRATED SYSTEM FOR NC MACHINING OF MULTI-PATCH SURFACES

The problem of tool path generation for parts made of multi-patch surf aces is considered. Several problems specific to multi-patch surfaces (e.g. inputs for tool path generation, curve data structures, and calc ulation of adjacent curves) are identified and solutions are proposed. The techniques developed are implemented and interfaced with a commer cial CAD/CAM system resulting in an integrated system for NC tool path generation. The system enables the user to generate tool paths based on practical metrics such as length, curvature and number of tool path s, not currently available during tool path generation. (C) 1997 Elsev ier Science Ltd.