Classification and analysis of multi-sided, CNC milled components

摘要

This paper describes research on the classification and analysis of multi-faceted CNC milled components for their machining planning. A large proportion of CNC milled components can be produced on three-axis CNC machining centres from cuboidal billets with a cylindrical cutter traversing a planar path at various fixed depth from a number of approach directions. The volume removed at each depth is considered a 2 1/2D facet or machined feature. Such components are modelled by indexing the approach directions to each machined feature. Based on the previous work of 2 1/2D single- and double-sided milled components, multi-sided components are classified using the index information. The approach directions are then used to enable an automated analysis of the component design. A viable machining process plan can be created eventually for the component. The research illustrated with examples has employed extensively geometric reasoning techniques and solid modelling functions. It is hoped that the work can be further extended to cover a wider range of CNC milled components for their machining planning.