Using the Technique of Automatic Mesh Generation to Generate a Numerical Control Program

Abstract

This study was made to verify the assumption of using the technique of automatic mesh generation of finite element to generate an NC program. It was done utilizing the ANSYS program capabilities to generate and mesh specific model geometry automatically and analyze it to get a specific geometrical data. A c-language grogram was designed to use this data as inputs to make some calculations and comparison operations to identify a specific sequence order of point coordinates and then to write and print out an NC program in a G-code form. The generated NC program was fed into a CNC machine through specific protocol making the tool to traverse through the specified point's path. Automatic mesh generation of Finite Element, CNC system, CAM system, ANSYS program, and C- programming were studied, discussed, and showed how they were interacted and utilized to verify how a machine cutting tool path can be generated through the nodes of a meshed work piece in a form of G-code program. This method (Automatic mesh generation) will make easy production of intricate surfaces such as those used in pressing and forging dies, casting and plastic molds. The above mentioned assumption was tested and verified in 2D applications. It is thought that much benefit will be gained in 3D applications and this was suggested for further work.