Length-optimal tool path planning for freeform surfaces with preferred feed directions based on Poisson formulation

This paper presents an implicit tool path planning method for machining freeform surfaces represented as parametric surfaces or meshes. It is found that generating tool paths with minimum length lies in finding the optimal trade-off between the preferred feed direction field and the constant scallop height. This optimal trade-off can then be achieved by formulating the tool path planning problem as a Poisson problem which minimizes a simple, quadratic energy. Algorithmically, this amounts to solving a well-conditioned sparse linear system, which is computationally convenient and efficient. A series of examples and comparisons have been conducted to validate the method. (C) 2021 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Automated summary

This paper introduces a tool path planning method for machining freeform surfaces, which involves finding the optimal trade-off between the preferred feed direction and constant scallop height to generate the shortest path. By formulating the problem as a Poisson problem that minimizes a simple quadratic energy, a well-conditioned sparse linear system is solved algorithmically, making it computationally convenient and efficient. Examples and comparisons have been conducted to validate the method.