Computer-integrated optics design and tool path generation in virtual machining of aspheric surfaces

Author(s):  
W B Lee ◽  
D Gao ◽  
C F Cheung ◽  
J G Li

This paper presents an integrated optics design and tool path generation system for the design and manufacture of aspheric optics. The optics design is accomplished by a computer aided optics design software which allows the simulation, evaluation and optimization of the performance of the optical system without the need to make a real prototype. The required optical surface is automatically translated into its corresponding numerical control (NC) program based on a tool path generator. The output of the system is a set of optimized optics design parameters, verified NC program and cutting condition. The tool path program can be generated directly from computer-aided optical design software without the need for any manual data post-processing and can be verified by an expensive trial cutting test.

Author(s):  
Ranga Narayanaswami ◽  
Junhua Pang

Abstract Tool path generation is a fundamental problem in numerical control machining. Typical methods used for machining 2.5D objects include generation of offset contours using trimmed offset curves and zigzag sequences. The offset contours result in unnecessary detailed curves far away from the object boundary. The zigzag sequences result in frequent stops and changes in tool direction. In this paper we present a novel approach for tool path generation based on wavelet theory. The theory of wavelets naturally leads to a simple cut sequence algorithm that provides valid and efficient coverage of the machined surface. The classical analytical and algebraic complexity in tool path planning is also reduced. In this paper, curves are represented by endpoint interpolating B-splines and their corresponding wavelets. Design and manufacturing examples are also presented in this paper.


Author(s):  
Yuki Takanashi ◽  
Hideki Aoyama

Abstract Machining data (NC program) is generated by a CAM system, which generates the tool path from the target shape as a plane approximation surface instead of a free-form surface. Owing to this plane approximation, machining accuracy is reduced. In this paper, we propose a method to process the shape with high accuracy by defining the areas where accuracy is not required as a plane approximation surface and defining the part where accuracy is required as free-form surfaces.


2010 ◽  
Vol 26-28 ◽  
pp. 982-987
Author(s):  
Xiu Ting Wei ◽  
Qiang Du ◽  
Jing Cheng Liu

The universal NC program was inefficient for machining centrifugal pump vanes and a new tool-path generation method along section lines was proposed in this paper. After analyzing curve characteristics of centrifugal pump vanes, the mathematical model for calculating cutting step-lengths and determining the next tool contact parameter ui+1 through step estimating method was put forward. Furthermore, a new iterative algorithm was implemented, along with its terminal condition simplified. The proposed algorithm provided a new idea for developing special NC program of impellers.


2020 ◽  
Vol 14 (5) ◽  
pp. 808-815
Author(s):  
Koichi Morishige ◽  
Satoshi Mori ◽  
◽  

CAM software is generally used to generate tool paths for 5-axis controlled machining. However, adjusting its several parameters and settings is difficult. We propose a system for tool path generation to be applied to 5-axis controlled machining. The system allows machining movements to be established by manipulating haptic devices in a virtual environment. Therefore, the cutter location for 5-axis machining can be easily controlled by operating a virtual cutting tool. The contact between the cutting tool and the target shape is reflected to the user through the haptic device. The generated path can be converted into a numerical control program for the actual machining of the target object. We detail the implementation of the proposed interface using two haptic devices and a method of tool path generation that improves rough cutting by smoothing the generated cutting points and simplifying the tool postures. The effectiveness of the developed system is confirmed through machining simulations.


Author(s):  
Dengpeng Huang ◽  
Lei Zhang ◽  
Shijun Ji ◽  
Ji Zhao

The optical performance of the off-axis three-mirror imaging system can be greatly improved using freeform surfaces. This article focuses on the polishing of the primary mirror and tertiary mirror in an off-axis three-mirror imaging system. The primary mirror and tertiary mirror are fabricated on one monolithic substrate and described by non-uniform rational B-spline–based freeform surfaces. The separated and integrated polishing strategies are presented for polishing the two mirrors on the four-axis computer numerical control polishing platform. A tool path generation approach is proposed for polishing of the non-uniform rational B-spline–based freeform surface. Three kinds of the tool paths are given for ultra-precision polishing of the primary mirror and tertiary mirror with the freeform surfaces. The concentric circle path and the approximately concentric circle path are generated for polishing two mirrors separately, while the spiral path is calculated for integrated polishing of two mirrors simultaneously. The polishing tool posture along the planned tool paths is also analyzed. The ultra-precision polishing experiments of the primary mirror and tertiary mirror on the four-axis computer numerical control polishing platform are performed to verify the proposed approach for tool path generation.


2012 ◽  
Vol 516 ◽  
pp. 595-599
Author(s):  
Kui Liu ◽  
Pei Ling Liu ◽  
Hu Wu ◽  
Kah Chuan Shaw

In this study, a computer numerical control (CNC) programming software platform for ultra precision machining of optical surfaces was developed based on an MS Windows application framework and openGL. Using cylindrical coordinates, the tool path can be generated based on the polar angle, radius and a linear coordinate of the Z-axis, as well as cutting tool nose radius compensation. A 3D simulation based on tool path generation was developed for machining verification, which largely reduces the oscillation of the machine during the ultra precision machining process. Ultra precision machining of an optical lens array was carried out on a 5-axis ultra precision machining centre using a single crystalline diamond cutter. The experimental results indicated that the oscillation effect can be largely reduced using the cutting tool path using a super steady machining strategy. This software platform is designed as a framework, where the capability and functions can be expanded by adding in more freeform surface packages.


2013 ◽  
Vol 655-657 ◽  
pp. 1317-1320
Author(s):  
Yi Gang Du ◽  
Wen Zhi Zhang ◽  
Ying Han Liu ◽  
Zhao Hui Jin

According to the characteristics and requirements of NCT processing system, deeper research was done on the system. The three-module design has been completed based on motion controller. The first module is completed on the design of panel, key position, machine functions and coding circuit; the second module is mainly accomplished on the tool-path generation, tool adapter and program development; the last module is used to verify the NC codes. Thus the NCT processing system is improved effectively.


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