A 3D curvature gouge detection and elimination method for 5-axis CNC milling of curved surfaces

Based on the concept of Eular-Meusnier Spheres (EMS) that portrays the generic curvature model of surfaces, a new three-dimensional (3D) method for curvature gouge detection and elimination in sculpture surface machining is presented. The new method is superior for presenting one-dimensional (1D) and two-dimensional (2D) approaches for curvature gouge detection and curvature gouge-free machining due to its capability to consider both normal and osculate curvatures of the cutter and machined surfaces and their interactions. The method can be applied to all three types of commonly used milling cutters (end, torus and spherical mills) and all concave curved surfaces. Test results from machining simulations are presented to demonstrate the new method and its advantages. The work forms the foundation for further research on the automated generation of highly efficient and high quality 5-axis CNC tool paths for machining curved surfaces.