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In this paper, a new CAM planning strategy for removal of support structures is presented. Since such a task is usual in post-processing of parts fabricated with additive manufacturing, the developed approach is about a toolpath planning algorithm suitable for generic robotic cells that can be equipped with a chiseling holder. The 6-axis toolpath generation was used to define spatial paths of the tool tip and proper orientation of the chisel tool. The chisel can be orientated with a certain angle to the machined surface ensuring a gouge-free and collision-free positioning. Removability of different support structures was experimentally validated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, the presented approach resolves important aspects that appear in the process planning for multi-axis Direct Laser Additive Manufacturing: smoothing of the nozzle orientation along the toolpath to reduce deviation of the laser spot's surface speed, redistribution of the toolpath points on the surface to ensure robust processing of the points by the machine tool, collision avoidance between the nozzle and the workpiece by adjustment of the nozzle orientation. Collision avoidance penalizes the lateral tilting to minimize the change of the laser spot size due to tilting and, therefore, it has reduced its impact on the process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: This paper describes the development of a five-axis tool path generation algorithm for the machining of complex shaped parts using flat-end tools. In order to reduce the machining time and to ensure optimal quality, the step-over is optimized in each tool contact point. This step-over calculation is obtained through the integration of a newly developed algorithm for material removal simulation. The latter is performed by calculating swept volumes which represent tool motions interpolated according to the machine kinematics. The developed algorithm has been implemented for contour like (spiral) strategies and validated through the machining of an industrial example. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]