A novel adaptive-feedrate interpolation method for NURBS tool path with drive constraints

Feedrate scheduling is crucial for CNC systems to generate a smooth movement which is able to satisfy increasing requirements on machining quality and efficiency. In this paper, a novel adaptive feedrate interpolation method is proposed for NURBS tool path with drive constraints. The tool path is first expressed in NURBS form, and then the satisfaction conditions of drive constraints are derived according to the kinematic and geometric characteristics of the NURBS tool path. On this base, a proportional adjustment algorithm, which can quantitatively reduce the accelerations and jerks of drive axes at the sensitive regions of feed profile, is proposed to achieve the new positions of violated sampling points. After each adjustment, a curve evolution strategy is used to ensure the feed profile is locally or globally deformed to the target positions with a good smoothness of path curve and the avoidance of re-interpolation. Through the iterative adjustment, a smooth feed profile with limited velocities, accelerations and jerks of drive axes is thus yielded along the entire tool path. Finally, performances of the proposed method are validated by performing both simulations and experiments on two freeform NURBS curves. The results show the effectiveness and reliability of the proposed feedrate interpolation method. (C) 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.