Development of CAPP/CAM system for 5-axis control machining - Application to machining 3-dimensional complicated tiny part

Complicated 3-D parts can be created by using the developed multi-axis control machining centers. 3-D CAD/CAM systems for multi-axis control machining are also developed to save time and labor in preparing NC data. However, operators consume a long time in process planning since there are few practical computer systems for process planning. It is indispensable to develop CAPP (Computer Aided Process Planning) system for 3-D machining in response to the demands. The study deals with the development of fundamental CAPP/CAM system for multi-axis control 3-D machining.The system developped in the study enables S-axis control tool path generation in consideration of tool length, the tool posture change and the workpiece fixing direction, based on the tool entrance face concept From experimental result of creating a micro impeller, it is confirmed that the CAPP/CAM function has the potential of effective multi-axis control machining.