Five-Axis Contour Error Estimation Based on Multi-Information Dynamic Time Warping

Contour accuracy is crucial for machining precision in five-axis computer numerical control (CNC) machining. This paper addresses the challenge of improving contour accuracy by proposing a novel contour error estimation and compensation method based on dynamic time warping (DTW). By incorporating time information and geometric characteristics of the machining path, the proposed method introduces a multiple-information fusion algorithm to define distance characteristics between the planned and actual trajectory sequences. This allows the calculation of a distortion path and the establishment of a mapping model between the two sequences. To mitigate the effect of DTW singularity on contour error estimation, a mapping model is established between line segments to determine reference points. The position contour error and the direction contour error of the five-axis tool are accurately estimated using segmented Hermite interpolation, and a spatial iterative learning framework is employed to compensate for them. Experimental results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method in dealing with estimation errors in complex trajectories and its good performance in improving contour accuracy. Note to Practitioners-This paper proposes an effective strategy for the estimation of contour errors in five-axis machining. Currently, most methods for contour error estimation in five-axis machining are based on the nearest point principle. However, this approach fails to accurately estimate contour errors for complex trajectories with significant curvature variations, leading to ineffective contour error compensation in subsequent stages. Therefore, we introduce a contour error estimation algorithm based on DTW. This algorithm takes into account the time information and geometric features of the machining path. Experimental results validate the feasibility and advantages of this approach.