Efficient NC-Programming of Multi-Axes Milling Machines Through the Integration of Tool Path Generation and NC-Simulation

This paper describes the development of an “extended CAM system” for multi-axes milling, integrating tool path generation, axes transformation (postprocessing) and NC-simulation. The system performs an immediate verification of each generated cutter location and in case a collision occurs (e.g. between machine and part), it takes the appropriate action by applying a collision avoidance algorithm. Different collision avoidance algorithms have been implemented: change of tool orientation, selection of other machine axes configurations and simple tool retract. The effect of a tool orientation change on the quality of the machined surface has been studied in order to define the range of tool orientations that may be used for collision avoidance.