3-Axis NC Rough Tool-Path Generation from Discrete Data Points of Reliefs
Wei Liu, Lai Shui Zhou, Lu Ling An · Applied Mechanics and Materials · 2010
This paper presents an algorithm through which 3-axis NC rough tool-paths can be directly generated from discrete data points. Based on Inverse Tool Offset (ITO) method, the algorithm generates direction-parallel (DP) tool paths for relief point clouds. The algorithm includes four steps: dividing data points into 3D cell grids; constructing inverse tool model and calculating the grids intersecting the surface of inverse tool; obtaining the grids containing cutter location points; calculating tool paths. The experiment results indicate that the algorithm of the rough tool paths is efficient.