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Incorporation of friction stir welding (FSW) in a parallel kinematics machine (PKM) 5-axis machine was undertaken with the intelligent computer aided manufacturing (ICAM) approach to optimise process parameters and tool paths by using available CNC data, and welding experiments on a non-horizontal path were conducted for AA 1050-H14 aluminium alloys. The experimental approach incorporated a 5-axis parallel machine structure, FSW tool design modification and optimised process parameters. Issues discussed include measurement of forces in the PKM machine, force control by ICAM and real-time tool path control using force data in the CAD model.

9th International Symposium, 15-17 May 2012, Session 9A: Process II, Paper 02