Virtual Pole Method - Alternative Method for Profiling Rack Tools

Abstract

This paper presents a variant for determining the enwrapping condition, in
the case of rack gear type tools. This variant was called the “virtual pole method”.
The position of the virtual pole Pv
is defined by the movement angle of the blank
together with the centrode associated with the generated profile. The virtual pole
method allows translating in the centrodes’ absolute movements, a point on the
generated profile, on to the rack tool profile, thus determining the geometric locus
representing the generating tool profile. The new method is easier to apply, while
remaining scientifically rigorous. By applying the proposed algorithm, it is no
longer necessary to write explicitly the relative movements between the tool and the
piece, which simplifies the calculation process and eliminates some of the
possibilities for errors.