Direct interpolation algorithm for pen-cutting of sculptured surfaces

A direct interpolation algorithm for spatial curves on a surface is proposed for pen-cutting of sculptured surfaces. The algorithm can carry out the direct interpolation for projective curves lying on the sculptured surface. It is based on the geometric and kinetic relationships between drive curves and cutter-contact （C-C） curves. It evaluates the parameter of drive curves corresponding to interpolation points by the Taylor formula. Then it gains coordinates of interpolation points indirectly by inverse calculation. Finally, it generates the motion commands for machine tool controller. This method extends the locus-controlled function in the computer numerical control （CNC） system effectively and improves the efficiency for the numerical control （NC） machining of sculptured surfaces. The simulation shows that the proposed algorithm is feasible and practical. This algorithm can also be applied to the machining of the whole surface.