Tool Path Generation for Machining Point Cloud Data by Least Squared Projection

Abstract

Point cloud has been used as representation model for tool path planning. However, for point cloud machining, there are few tool path generation strategies but iso-planar method. In this paper, a method of generating tool paths from point cloud for three-axis machining is presented. A simple base surface, such as plane or cylindrical surface, etc., is first created according to the shape of the point cloud. On this base surface, the guide curves of tool path are rapidly designed, and then are projected onto the point cloud surface to generate the final tool path by using the least squared projection method. Finally, this method is tested on a sample surface to demonstrate its validity.