Coverage based tool path planning for automated polishing using contact stress theory

Presented in this paper is a method for tool path planning for automated polishing. This work is an integral part of the research program on automated polishing and deburring being carried out at Ryerson University. Whereas tool path planning for machining is treated as a geometry problem, it is shown here that tool path planning for polishing should be treated as a contact stress problem because of the contact action between the polishing tool and the part. To develop this method, contact mechanics is applied for contact area modeling and analysis. Once the contact area is determined for multiple points along the given polishing path, a map of the contact area is established and used to show the coverage area during polishing. This map is then used to plan polishing paths that ensures a complete coverage for polishing. Simulation has been conducted to show the effectiveness of this new tool path planning method.