Visibility from a Slice File for Rapid CNC Machining

A methodology for using CNC machining as a rapid prototyping process is being developed. The method involves cutting complex parts using layer-based machining operations from a plurality of orientations about one axis of rotation. A critical step is to determine the number of and location of those orientations. This paper presents an approach to mapping the visibility of a model about an axis of rotation using a set of model slices taken orthogonal to the axis of rotation