Simulation of a modified rotary timber machining process to improve surface form

Rotary machining is extensively used for planing and moulding operations within the woodworking industry. Although the surface form produced by this machining method is acceptable, the rotary machining action produces cutter marks on the wood surface so that further finishing operations, such as sanding, are often required to generate a product of acceptable standard. It has been theorised that the surface finish of planed and moulded timber products may be improved by oscillation of the cutter block in either a vertical or horizontal plane. This paper describes the use of a graphical simulation based on Simulink^® software to predict surface finish, and the use of computer simulation to model cutter-block oscillation. The result is a complete tool for effective design and optimisation of a hydraulic oscillation system, in combination with a surface form generator in order to improve surface form.