INTERFERENCE-FREE CUTTING-PATH GENERATION BASED ON SCANNING DATA

This work presents a novel cutting-path planning strategy for three-ax is machining of 3D scanning data. A curve-fitting algorithm is employe d to fit each array of the measured data into parallel sectional curve s, ensuring that the effect of measurement and form errors call be sub stantially reduced. The best-fitting sectional curves are then used to construct a surface of triangular meshes. A modified chord-length met hod is also proposed to adequately control the accuracy of the triangu lar meshes generated. The triangular meshes are then offset along the surface normal to obtain an offset mesh surface on which the cutting p aths are planned. An effective gouging detection and removal algorithm are also proposed to prevent the machined surface from overcutting. S everal computer simulation results demonstrate the feasibility of the proposed strategy.