Mechanistic modelling of the milling process using complex tool geometry

Mechanistic models of the milling process must calculate the chip geometry and the cutter edge contact length in order to predict milling forces accurately. This task becomes increasingly difficult for the machining of three dimensional parts using complex tool geometry, such as bull nose cutters. In this paper, a mechanistic model of the milling process based on an adaptive and local depth buffer of the computer graphics card is compared to a traditional simulation method. Results are compared using a 3-axis wedge shaped cut – a tool path with a known chip geometry – in order to accommodate the traditional method. Effects of cutter nose radius on the cutting and edge forces are considered. It is verified that there is little difference (1.4% at most) in the predicted force values of the two methods, thereby validating the adaptive depth buffer approach. The numerical simulations are also verified using experimental cutting tests of aluminium, and found to agree closely (within 12%).