Abstract: On the basis of the theory of diffraction of elastic waves and dynamic stress concentration, the relationship between the polishing results and the contact stress, which is caused by the ultrasonic shock of the elastic polishing tool on abrasive particles, is studied. The feasibility that the technological parameters can be predicted by the contact stress is verified. The regularities that technological factors influence polishing results are made known by numerical simulation of the contact stress. The research work provides and effective means for optimizing the machining process of the robotic elastic ultrasonic polishing on free-form surfaces by theoretical analysis.

Key words: Free-form surfaces, Numerical simulation, Robot, Stress wave, Ultrasonic polishing