Tool Path Planning Algorithm for Five-Axis NC Machining of Sculptured Surfaces

An algorithm for tool path planning of five-axis NC machining of sculptured surfaces is presented. Based on the condition for avoidance of local gouging, the algorithm makes the effective cutting curvature and the effective surface curvature the closest match, in all directions in the tangent plane of the designed surface at the CC point. Therefore, a series of constant scallop height tool paths are generated, thus the desired scallop height is maintained and the machining strip width is bigger.