Re: 5 Axis Milling Machine Demonstrates Capabilities
A Challenge to the Pioneers of 5-axis Machining
A brief interview with the CEO of Daishin Seiki, Mr. Ryosuke Omachi regarding this project.
What was your inspiration for the Performance Racing Helmet?
Mr. Omachi: Our goal was to reach the limit of simultaneous 5-axis milling. We wanted our work to serve as a challenge to the pioneers of 5-axis.
Our reasons for choosing a helmet were both practical and artistic. First, we considered the work size. The project had to be less than 400mm since that was the maximum stroke of the machine tool. Secondly, we wanted to choose a subject that would be familiar to anyone at a glance.
I imagined a simple and free model within the 400mm sphere and I hit on the idea of a helmet. A typical motorcycle helmet was too simple to suit our needs. An off-road/motocross helmet gave us more flexibility in design. Our final design reflects the skills and experiences we have developed over our last 50 years as a manufacturing company.
What functions within hyperMILL® were beneficial to achieve your desired results?
Mr. Omachi: We used numerous milling strategies within hyperMILL® including specialty functions within 5x Multi Blade and 5x Tube Milling. The most useful strategy during the finishing process was 5x Rework (used to transform 3x toolpaths into simultaneous 5x movement with collision avoidance) which allowed us to control the cutter orientation as needed and also obtain the beautiful surface finish.
What was the total time invested in this project?
Mr. Omachi: This project represents two months of work for the three engineers involved. Milling time was approximately 150 hours. Considerable time was invested in achieving the high quality surface finish in evidence.
What did you learn during the course of this project?
Mr. Omachi: At Daishin Seiki, our main function is as a prototype manufacturer. During this project, we learned what we can accomplish using the latest and best technology within simultaneous 5-axis. Our company motto is, “Technology and Response”. We must deliver the latest technology to our customers, as this leads to mutual trust and the most satisfactory results for them.
The most satisfying thing that was achieved during the course of this project was the personal growth of the staff involved. They worked several weeks without rest and they rose to the challenge. This helmet was born of their passion.
Since this project, we have become involved with a lot of difficult work. When we earn such a job, our feeling is, “It is easier than the helmet!”
What version of hyperMILL® was used?
Mr. Omachi: We used hyperMILL® version 2009.1.
Thank you for the interview.
Daishin Seiki Corporation is a leading provider of prototypes to the motorsport industry and specializes in technologically sophisticated parts and 5-axis manufacturing. The Performance Racing Helmet, programmed by hyperMILL, was commissioned to celebrate their 50th Anniversary.