Optimization of support location in mirror-milling of aircraft skins
Proceedings of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, Part B: Journal of Engineering Manufacture
Published online on October 24, 2016
Abstract
As a new technology of reducing thickness of an aircraft skin, the mirror-milling system is widely used. The objective of this study is to optimize the support location in mirror-milling of aircraft skins. The study analyzes the machining mechanisms of mirror-milling system and establishes a theoretical model to predict the milling forces. In addition, it develops a finite element model to simulate workpiece deformation so as to predict workpiece profiles in mirror-milling system. The results of the study show that with the optimized support location, the profile error of the workpiece is reduced by 73.5%, whereas machining efficiency is increased.