Papers by Author: Zong Wei Xu

Abstract: In recent years, micro-machining has obtained increasingly attention and been more and more widely used in the field of machining. As a vital important aspect in the design of micro-tool, traditional tool geometry design methods need to be improved. In this paper, the mathematical model of D-type micro end-mill is developed; FEM analysis using ABAQUS 6.12 is employed to optimize the geometry parameters of D-type micro end-mill, which is proved to be a very convenient method. For small diameter tools, strength is the primary factor to be considered in their design, so the target of optimization is to minimize the maximum principal stress and deformation of the micro-tools.

Abstract: The mathematical modeling of the cutting tools is an important aspect for the design and manufacturing engineers from the viewpoint of shape realization. Taper mill is composed of side and end edges. In order to make each patch closely combined, the groove section is designed by considering the relation among tapered radius, groove depth and radius of inner land. Through translation and rotation of shape curve, the side flute and end flute model can be established. These models can be rendered in three dimensional software according to parametric design of taper end mills. And this methodology can be easily extended to design, manufacture other tools.

Abstract: Carbon nanotube (CNT) probe used in atomic force microscopy (AFM) was fabricated by using electron beam induced Pt deposition method. The bonding force for CNT probe was found to be larger than 500nN. The nanotube probe’s length was shortened by focused ion beam milling process. It is confirmed that the CNT probe shows higher aspect ratio than the Si probe. The nanotube probes with fullerene-like cap end present higher imaging resolution than those with open end.

Abstract: An improved arc welding method was developed to fabricate carbon nanotube probe under direct view of optical microscope. The new fabrication method here needs not coat silicon probe in advance with metal film, which greatly reduces the fabrication’s difficulty. An easy method for shortening the nanotube probe was also developed. The improved fabrication method here is simple and reliable. The fabricated carbon nanotube probe showed good properties of higher length-to-diameter aspect ratio, better wear characteristics than silicon probe.