A 3D Rough-cut Model Generation Algorithm Based on Multi-resolution Mesh for Sculptured Surface Machining

In the rough-cut stage of sculptured surface machining, using rough-cut models with simple geometric complexity to generate tool paths could effectively reduce the machining time and improve the machining efficiency. In this paper, a 3D rough-cut model generation algorithm for sculptured surface machining is presented. The proposed algorithm is based on offset and multi-resolution mesh. Offsetting guarantees that the rough-cut models always involve the input model, while multi-resolution mesh allows the simplification of a complex model into coarser approximations. This proposed algorithm could generate 3D rough-cut models with different resolutions from the input model. These rough-cut models have simple geometric complexities and incremental volume changes. The experimental results indicate that the generated rough-cut models are suitable for sculptured surface machining.