1. Automated process planning system considering machining feature recognition suitable for end-milling using CAD models in STL format
- Author
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Takayuki HIRAYAMA, Hidenori NAKATSUJI, and Isamu NISHIDA
- Subjects
computer aided manufacturing (cam) ,standard triangulated language (stl) format ,chamfer ,filet ,free-form surface ,end milling ,Engineering machinery, tools, and implements ,TA213-215 ,Mechanical engineering and machinery ,TJ1-1570 - Abstract
This study proposes a method to automatically generate numerical control (NC) programs from 3D computer-aided design (CAD) models in STL (Standard Triangulated Language) format. In STL format CAD of models, the three-dimensional shape is represented as a collection of triangular meshes. This format has the advantage of eliminating the need for concern about compatibility issues with data formats of 3D CAD models. On the other hand, there is a challenge in obtaining machining features that represent the characteristics of the three-dimensional shape for extracting the machining removal region. The previous study proposed a method to extract the machining region and obtain geometrical features such as boss or pocket shapes from only a 3D CAD model in STL format. However, that method was limited to product shapes represented only by independent boss shapes or pocket shapes. Those forms could be machined only by contour line machining, also called 2.5-axis machining. For general product shapes, it is necessary to recognize chamfers or filet shapes and free-form surfaces. Furthermore, the ideal machining process should be based on not only the desired shape, but also the extracted machining features to shorten the machining time as much as possible. Therefore, this study proposes a method to extract machining features such as chamfers, filets or free-form surfaces and to calculate the tool path necessary for machining. This study also proposed a method to extract pocket or slot machining features from multiple boss shapes for efficient machining. The machining experiments were conducted to validate the effectiveness of the proposed method. The results demonstrate that the tool path automatically generated using the proposed method from a 3D CAD model in STL format can be machined without any trouble and with the accuracy needed for practical use.
- Published
- 2024
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