Toshiyuki Okita

Indexing 5-Axis Machining Process Design Support System Shortening Die Fabrication Lead Time

In recent years, due to intensified global competitiveness in die machining, further reduction of lead time, lower costs and higher accuracy are in demand. 5-axis machining is receiving attention as a means to solving these issues. However, differing to the conventional 3-axis machining, complex thinking tasks such as determining tool orientation while considering interference are required in the process design phase prior to machining, which not only places pressure on even those experienced workers, but also consumes a significantly longer amount of time than that required for the actual machining itself. Accordingly, with the aim of shortening the overall lead time from machining process design through to machining itself, we have developed a support system which makes highly efficient indexing 5-axis machining process design possible in a short time even for inexperienced workers. This report presents the algorithms contrived and calculation test results.