Coverage based tool-path planning for automated polishing using contact mechanics theory

Presented in this paper is a tool-path planning method for automated polishing. This work is an integral part of research program on automated polishing/deburring being carried out at Ryerson University. Whereas tool-path planning for machining is treated as a geometry problem, it is shown here that tool-path planning for polishing should be treated as a contact mechanics problem because of contact action between the polishing tool and the part. To develop this method, contact mechanics is applied for contact area modeling and analysis. Once the contact area is determined for multiple points along the given polishing path, a Contact Area Map (CAM) is established and used to show the coverage area during polishing. This map is then used to plan polishing paths that ensures a complete coverage for polishing. Simulation has been conducted to show the effectiveness of this new tool-path method. (C) 2011 The Society of Manufacturing Engineers. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.