Programming of CNC Milling Machines Using Particle Swarm Optimization
This article proposes asystem for theautomatic programming of a CNC milling machine by particle swarm optimization (PSO). In the presented research, each individual swarm particle presents a possible numerical control (NC) program. Voxel representation of machining area was used. Bresenham's algorithm was implemented, for the rasterization of the cuts. Optimisation with PSO was carried out within a voxelized machining area. The system automatically finds the NC program for optimal machining. The NC program guarantees an optimal selection of tools, the shortest possible work and rapid motions, and minimization of the manufacturing time, thus achieving a reduction in machining costs and increased productivity. Testing using test workpieces and 2.5 D milling confirmed the efficiency of the proposed approach. The proposed intelligent system is easily adaptable for programming other types of CNC machines by PSO.