Process simulation integrated tool axis selection for 5-axis tool path generation

In 5-axis tool path generation the tool axis is usually selected based on the workpiece geometry only, ignoring its effects on the process and machine tool motion. In this paper, a process simulation integrated tool axis selection approach is proposed to adjust the tool axis vectors in an already generated 5-axis milling path for improved process in terms of cutting forces, stability and machine tool motion. The part surface data, required to re-calculate the tool axis, is extracted from the existing path. The proposed approach is demonstrated on a representative case.