Tool trajectory planning method for CFRP curved component milling: Considering variable inclination to adapt to different directions of fiber layers

Improper tool trajectory selection during CFRP curved component milling can lead to sudden changes in instantaneous cutting parameters, such as fiber cutting angle, resulting in significant machining damage and profile deviation. In this paper, a novel tool trajectory planning method for CFRP curved component milling is proposed. The key innovation of this method lies in considering the effect of tool variable inclination on fiber removal behavior. Employing the developed method, the influence of trajectories under different tool inclination angles on the milling quality of CFRP surfaces is thoroughly investigated. The results indicate that, to minimize machining damage, an inclination angle within 10° is recommended when the fiber cutting direction is in the range of 0°-60° and 150°-180°. For fiber cutting directions falling within 60°-150°, it is recommended to select an inclination angle above 25°. Additionally, the novel tool trajectory planning method decreases CFRP surface profile errors by over 20 %.