Automatic tool path generation for the rough machining of dies and molds.

In this thesis, a prototype knowledge-based system for the rough machining of sculptured surfaces on dies and molds is presented. The system first decomposes a designed part into a number of parallel layers normal to the z-axis and determines the shape of the part at each of these layers. Then, a geometric description of each cutting layer shape including the area-to-dimension ratio, the feasible machining region and the number and size of pockets/islands is produced. Next, the system makes decisions on the size of the cutter, the sequence of cut and the optimal tool path strategy (parallel offset, stock offset, or component offset). Finally, the NC code is generated, the machining of the entire part is simulated, and machining time and cost are calculated. This system can reduce tool path designing time by up to 80% over traditional methods, and testing has shown that it reduces machining time by 10%. To demonstrate this system, two examples are included.Dept. of Industrial and Manufacturing Systems Engineering. Paper copy at Leddy Library: Theses & Major Papers - Basement, West Bldg. / Call Number: Thesis1994 .M377. Source: Masters Abstracts International, Volume: 33-04, page: 1317. Adviser: Ruxu Du. Thesis (M.Sc.A.)--University of Windsor (Canada), 1994.