Abstract: In order to machine the digital gear tooth surfaces (DGTS), a slotting method for two-dimensional DGTS, based on the conjugate theories of digital surface and gear meshing, is developed. The slotting model between the DGTS represented by discrete points and the cutter figuration determined by analytic function is built for their geometrical relationship and conjugate motion in the machining process. Conjugate points in the cutter section corresponding to the discrete points on the digital surface and the conjugate movements are solved. Automated sequences arrangements of the generating movement parameters have been performed and the discrete movements are interpolated in a continuous generation motion under the order, which can result in realization of continuous slotting of DGTS. Experiments of the slotting of involute DGTS and non-standard shaped DGTS are accomplished and the real surfaces meet the requirements of product. The experimental results verify the developed slotting method.

Key words: Conjugate theory, Digital gear tooth surfaces (DGTS), Gear meshing, Slotting, contact angle, Micro cutting, microarray, Microgroove, hydrophobic