Cutter path generation for 2.5D milling by combining multiple different cutter path patterns

Different cutter path patterns have been shown to be efficient for different types of pocket geometries. However, for certain types of complex pockets, no single type of pattern produces efficient cutter paths throughout the pocket. In this paper, different cutter path patterns are systematically analysed, and several existing heuristics for selecting cutter path patterns are discussed. Based on observations, a new cutter path generation algorithm is described in this paper. This algorithm generates a cutter path by using different patterns in different regions of the geometry and seamlessly morphing them together. In case of complex pockets, it produces solutions superior to those generated by any single pattern.