Sculptured Surface Machining (SSM) plays a vital role in the process of bringing new products to the market place. A great variety of products, from automotive body-panels to mobile phones, rely on this technology for the machining of their dies and moulds. This book documents the latest research progress and key issues affecting SSM software development. With a particular focus on the CAD/CAM environment, this book provides a rich source of reference, and covers such topics as fundamental mathematical tools, SSM-process models, process planning models and key tool-path generator (TPG), in addition to discussing more advanced theory and technology such as the new `C-space'- based TPG methods and `cloud-of-points' data machining. Sculptured Surface Machining: Is the first book to discuss all aspects of SSM, from SSM-process models to SSM- software design methodologies Presents a feature-based CAPP (computer-automated process planning) methodology for sculptured surface machining Includes practical applications for NC machining technologies. This book is essential reading for manufacturing engineers producing products with sculptured surfaces, software engineers working with CAD/CAM software, and researchers in the fields of mechanical, production and industrial engineering, and computer science.
