Multiaxis machining with additional-axis NC system: Theory and development

Abstract

Four and five mis machining is advanced technology for dealing with complex shaped parts but its application is restricted owing to the high investment cost. The additional-axis method, typically obtained by attaching a rotary/tilt table to an existing three-axis machine, is a powerful alternative for achieving multiaxis machining. However; owing to insufficient study of the additional-axis method its capability is limited to simple applications, such as multiface milling or drilling. in this paper, we attempt to establish a theoretical background and implementation methodology for achieving a genuine multiaxis NC system. The research is composed of: 1. Hardware set-up for implementing an additional-axis NC system. 2. interface study for implementing multiaxis machining with the required hardware configuration. 3. Versatile CL-data generation algorithms for NC machining. 4. Implementation of the algorithms for developing a multiaxis CAM system using the additional-mis NC system. Together with a detailed presentation on the additional-mis machining system, we will show that the additional-mis system can be used effectively for five-axis machining using two specific application examples.