Curvilinear space-filling curves for five-axis machining

The paper presents a new combination of two methods for tool path generation for five-axis machining proposed earlier by the authors. The first method is based on the grid generation technologies whereas the second method exploits the space-filling curve approach. Combination of the two techniques is superior with regard to the conventional methods and with regard to the case when the two methods are applied independently. In particular the algorithm allows us to generate tool paths for workpieces with complex boundaries as well as when the scallop and gouging constraints are changing sharply and irregularly. In this case the conventional methods are inefficient, whereas the proposed algorithms construct the required tool path and reduce the length of the path and the time of the machining. The numerical experiments are complemented by the real machining as well as by the test simulations on the Unigraphics 18. c © 2007 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.