Abstract: The kinematic theory of face grinding process on lapping machines is analysed. By means of pitch point and pitch circles, the complicated grinding process is converted into two rotations on condition that center distance is fixed. Two types of path curves and their relations are analysed, I.e. workpiece against grinding wheel and grinding wheel against workpiece. The geometrical analyses and manufacture quality of workpiece are linked with the aid of cutting velocity, range of rotational angle of cutting traces and derivative of the rotational angle with respect to time. The optimal path curve and kinematic parameters are achieved, and these results are correspond to the experimental results[1].

Key words: Lapping machine, Optimal scheme, Path curves, Pitch circles