Geometrical Adaptive Control in Profile Milling by CNC System

Summary

Machining accuracy in profile milling is analyzed in view of effective cutter diameter and a geometrical adaptive control system is proposed. This adaptive control(AC) system intends to improve the machining accuracy of profile milling to the degree of the positioning accuracy of machine tool and fits for computer numerical control(CNC) system. The system identifies the effective cutter diameter by using a contact feeler, minicomputer and displacement measuring system of machine tool after cutting a small testpiece, and controls cutter paths using the effective cutter diameter. This system uses the fact that the recidual stock is independent of the depth of cut in upward milling with straight tooth endmills, though the residual stock is one of the most important factor causing the machining error. Machining error due to tool setting is also eliminated.