Toolpath strategy based on geometric model for multi-axis medical machine tool

Toolpath generation for a multi-axis medical machine tool is a challenging task. In surgical procedures, it is difficult to apply industrial CAM technology owing to the requirement for quick toolpath generation and the likelihood of tool interference with complex structures of the target area. The objectives of this study are to optimize the initial position and posture of the cutting tool for performing the ideal skin incision and to minimize contact between the cutting tool and the surrounding area. We propose a novel toolpath strategy based on geometric models. It can be potentially applied to general machine-assisted surgeries. (C) 2011 CIRP.