Vector Field Analysis for optimization of the Tool Path of the Five-Axis Milling Machine

The paper presents a method to increase the production rate of a five axis milling machine through improving how to change the coordinates of the to-be-milled points from the “workpiece” to the “machine” coordinate system, and then deciding the cutting path by maximizing the material removal rate. The method to optimize the tool path is based on the analysis of a vector field of optimal directions which can be pre-computed for a particular machine configuration. The method includes grid generation, space filling curves and vector field decomposition using rotationally invariant moments. The proposed tool path performs the machining 1.2-6 times faster than conventional methods.