Tool Path Calculation Based on the Actual Tool Profile

Due to tool wear and making errors, calculating the tool path based on the tool theory model has a great deal of influence on the accuracy of surface finishing machining. In order to solve the above problem, a photogrammetry method is used to extract the rotary cutter profile, and then the tool surface is get by letting the fitting profile curve revolves about the cutter axis, finally the cutter contact path is obtained based on the minimal orientation-distance algorithm. Experiments prove the cutter contact path is just on the theory surface of the workpiece. Therefore the accuracy of surface finishing machining will be greatly improved by the method.