1. Analysis based on part shape and features
To optimize the tool path of CNC hardware processing, we must first conduct an in-depth analysis of the shape and features of the parts. For parts with simple geometric shapes, such as cuboids or cylinders, a linear tool path (such as the line cutting method) may be more appropriate. This tool path can perform continuous cutting along one direction of the part, reduce the tool's idle travel time, and improve processing efficiency. However, for parts with complex surfaces or irregular shapes, more sophisticated planning is required. For example, for hardware parts with complex cavities, the circular cutting method can be used. The circular cutting method uses the contour of the part cavity as a reference, and the tool gradually cuts inward or outward along the contour, which can better ensure the processing accuracy of the surface and reduce tool wear caused by frequent changes in cutting direction.
2. Consider tool life and cutting force
When optimizing the tool path, tool life and cutting force are factors that must be considered. The size and direction of the cutting force will affect the processing accuracy and surface quality of the part, and will also have an important impact on tool wear. In order to keep the cutting force stable, the tool path should avoid sudden changes in direction as much as possible. For example, when processing hardware parts with multiple bosses and grooves, the use of a spiral tool path can make the cutting force more evenly distributed. When this tool path transitions from one area to another, the tool movement is smooth, reducing the sudden change of cutting force and helping to extend the life of the tool. At the same time, the reasonable arrangement of the order of the tool path and processing the area with a large amount of cutting when the tool is new can also effectively protect the tool and improve the overall processing efficiency.
3. Improve processing efficiency and reduce idle stroke
Reducing idle stroke is the key to optimizing the tool path and improving processing efficiency. When planning the tool path, make full use of the coordinate axis motion characteristics of the CNC machine tool so that the tool can move to the next cutting area in the shortest path after cutting one area. For example, the tool's idle time can be minimized by reasonably setting the starting and ending points of the tool and using straight or circular transitions between different cutting areas. In addition, for mass-produced hardware parts, the tool path strategy of group processing can also improve efficiency. Lay out multiple parts in the processing area and optimize the tool's moving path between the parts, so that more parts can be processed in one clamping, reducing the number of clamping times and idle travel time.
4. Combining software tools and simulation technology
Nowadays, with the help of advanced CNC programming software and simulation technology, the tool path can be optimized more effectively. These software can automatically generate a variety of tool path schemes based on the three-dimensional model of the part, tool parameters and processing requirements, and simulate the processing process for each scheme. Through simulation, you can intuitively see the processing effects under different tool paths, including processing time, tool trajectory, cutting force changes, etc. According to the simulation results, the optimal tool path scheme can be selected. At the same time, some software also has intelligent optimization functions, which can automatically adjust the tool path according to the set optimization goals (such as the shortest processing time, minimum tool wear, etc.), further improving the efficiency and quality of CNC hardware processing.
