MULTI-HOLE DRILLING TOOL PATH OPTIMIZATION USING GENETIC ALGORITHM

The purpose of this paper is to present new approach in drilling path optimization based on genetic algorithm and to present a practically applicable software solution in every day practice. It deals with multi-hole drilling problem with precedence constraints which is common case in metalworking industry. The starting point is the assumption that the geometry of the workpiece is already recognized, then the mathematical model is presented and genetic algorithm is used to generate and to optimize tool path. Proposed concept greatly reduced the costs of part production through improved machining efficiency and it is very suitable for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) which have limited resources. Proposed concept is realised through software solution implemented in object-oriented programming language Delphi, and can be used for automatic generation of NC code.