Abstract: A high precision tool path planning algorithm with error compensation for complex parametric surfaces——high precision tool path planning algorithm of error compensation (HPTPPACPS) is proposed based on studying the constant scallop-height tool path planning for parametric surface. Based on analyzing the relationship of cutter contact point, its corre- sponding primary and fine cutter location points of adjacent tool path, error compensation is introduced to improve the pre- cision of the fine cutter location point. The reasonably simpli- fied expression of error compensation is presented in addition to the expressions of distance error of theoretical cutter location point, its corresponding primary and fine cutter location points. The calculated precision of the parameter value of the cutter location of adjacent tool path corresponding to cutter contact point is increased greatly, which leads to a high processing precision of complex parametric surface, by HPTPPACPS with error compensation on the condition that the real-time perform- ance is satisfied. The adaptability of HPTPPACPS to machine complex parametric surfaces in high precision is proved by the result of simulation example with flat bottom milling-tool.

Key words: Complex parametric surface, Error compensation, High precision, Real-time performance, Tool path planning