Method of generating grinding paths from a computer model for controlling a numerically controlled grinder
US5677855A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 31, 1995 |
| Grant date | Oct 14, 1997 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 31, 2015 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG05B2219/50343
- WIPO fieldControl
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A method of manufacturing a distal femoral knee prosthesis includes the initial step of forming a rough prosthesis workpiece member that has the approximate size and shape of a final polished distal femoral prosthesis. The rough prosthesis workpiece member can be a casting, forging or a rough machined part. The prosthesis member is then attached to a fixator and movably supported adjacent a grinding wheel in a numerically controlled grinder. Relative motion between the grinding wheel and the prosthesis is controlled with a computer. An articular surface of the prosthesis is shaped by engaging the prosthesis with the rotary grinder. The grind program for the numerically controlled grinder is generated from data representing a CAD/CAM model of a joint prosthesis. The process of generating the grind program includes first the step of generating path data points for a ball-endmill having a radius equal to the nose radius of the rotary grinding wheel. Next, the path data points are modified to compensate for a ball-endmill having a radius equal to the wheel radius of the grinding wheel.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.