A novel integrating between tool path optimization using an ACO algorithm and interpreter for open architecture CNC system

• Published in: Expert systems with applications Vol. 178; p. 114988
• Main Authors: Hatem, Noor, Yusof, Yusri, Kadir, Aini Zuhra A., Latif, Kamran, Mohammed, M.A
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: New York Elsevier Ltd 15.09.2021; Elsevier BV
• Subjects: ACO algorithm; Algorithms; Ant colony optimization; CAD/CAM; Cutting tools; Drilling; Drilling machines (tools); G code; G codes; Milling; Milling (machining); Numerical controls; Open architectures; Optimization; Service oriented architecture; Tool path optimization; Traveling salesman problem; Drilling; ACO algorithm; Traveling salesman problem; Tool path optimization; Milling; G code
• ISSN: 0957-4174; 1873-6793
• DOI: 10.1016/j.eswa.2021.114988

•Rebuild an open architecture CNC system to include tool path optimization using an ACO algorithm.•G-code milling and drilling points were interpreted by LabVIEW software.•The interpreted milling points were divided into groups, while the drilling points selected direct.•Ant Colony Optimization method was used to find the shortest tool path. This article proposes an effective methodology to reduce manufacturing time through the creation of quasi-optimal G command sequences, based on initial machining codes derived from CAD/CAM Service-Oriented Architecture (SOA) software. The optimization steps involved minimizing travel path time for CNC manufacturing machine milling and drilling. Also, identifying the optimal order of operation that enabled the shortest travel path for the cutting tool. These steps resulted in consistent enhancements of approximately 10.41% and 16.58% for milling and drilling machining, respectively. Furthermore, high-performing Ant Colony Optimization (ACO) algorithms were used to optimize the travel path time. In the context of automatic NC program production, the optimization of the cutting tool’s travel path could be achieved by integrating the ACO algorithm and the Open Architecture Control (OAC) into commercial CAD/CAM. In this paper, a new optimized generation of CNC systems, based on combining the Open Architecture Control (OAC) technology supported by the G-code data model and the optimization algorithm are presented.