Tool Path Generation Method for High-Quality Machining of Free-Form Surfaces

Machining data (NC program) is generated by a CAM system, which generates the tool path from the target shape as a plane approximation surface instead of a free-form surface. Owing to this plane approximation, machining accuracy is reduced. In this paper, we propose a method to process the shape with high accuracy by defining the areas where accuracy is not required as a plane approximation surface and defining the part where accuracy is required as free-form surfaces.