Tool paths and cutting technology in computer-aided process planning

This paper reports on the development of a module to calculate automatically tool paths and cutting conditions for metal cutting operations. Process planning must select correct cutting conditions to minimise disturbances on the shop floor owing to tooling problems. Tool path and cutting condition algorithms to generate reliable NC programs have been designed. The algorithms have been implemented in the framework of a generative computer-aided process planning system, called PART. Geometrical requirements to avoid chipping of cutting teeth are considered in tool-path calculation. The cutting conditions are calculated using metal cutting process models. A method has been developed to calculate cutting forces for milling operations based on experimental data of cutting forces in turning. In the process models, various constraints of the machine tool, cutting tool, and the workpiece are considered.