Deformation control through fixture layout design and clamping force optimization

Workpiece deformation must be controlled in the numerical control machining process. Fixture layout and clamping force are two main aspects that influence the degree and distribution of machining deformation. In this paper, a multi-objective model was established to reduce the degree of deformation and to increase the distributing uniformity of deformation. The finite element method was employed to analyze the deformation. A genetic algorithm was developed to solve the optimization model. Finally, an example illustrated that a satisfactory result was obtained, which is far superior to the experiential one. The multi-objective model can reduce the machining deformation effectively and improve the distribution condition.