Evolutionary algorithms for generation and optimization of tool paths

The efficiency of many manufacturing processes is dependent on the properties of the motion path that an end-effector or cutting tool follows. Consequently, algorithms have been developed for generating such tool paths with the aim of optimizing various objectives. In this paper, evolutionary algorithms for generation of continuous motion paths have been investigated to propose a novel method for creation and adaptable optimization of paths that allows the objective to be modified without revising the algorithm. An example test case based on milling with a sequence of objectives has been used to demonstrate the advantages of the proposed method.