Abstract: An algorithm for tool-path generation in the NC machining of compound surfaces is presented:The compound surfaces are approximated by triangular meshes. The vertices of triangular meshes are offset along the normal direction at the vertices. All offset vertices are then connected to form an offset triangular mesh surface which is sliced by a series of vertical planes to obtain parallel tool-paths. The experimental NC machining results demonstrate the feasibility of the algorithm.

Key words: offset, compound surfaces, tool-path generation, triangulation