Constructing smooth tool orientation field based on radial basis function for 5-axis machining

In order to improve the surface quality and dynamics for 5-axis finish machining, new algorithms to construct smooth tool orientation field function are proposed in this paper. Given several surface points and corresponding key tool axes, two methods are studied for open surfaces and half-open surfaces: (a) radial basis function (RBF) interpolation algorithm and (b) RBF-spline approximation algorithm. The two methods can ensure smoothness of all tool axes on the whole surface instead of a single tool path. Finally, several cases are studied to verify algorithms’ effectiveness.