Patent ID: 7867374
Filing Date: 2011-01-11
Classification: B23H

Abstract:
1. A method of shaping the surface of an anodically polarized part through the action of electrochemical dissolution using a static, multi-segmented electrode array, said method comprising the steps of: providing a tool having a plurality of electrodes each with a distal machining surface; supporting the plurality of electrodes in an ordered array; electrically insulating each electrode from another; establishing an electrical circuit with all of the electrodes; providing a part having a work surface to be machined; supporting the part with its work surface in opposing spaced relation to the machining surfaces of the electrodes; flowing an electrolyte through the space between the work surface and the machining surfaces; selectively varying the electrical energy profile delivered to specific electrodes to develop a three-dimensional formation on the work surface; and supporting the machining surfaces of all the electrodes in fixed relation to one another and in fixed relation to the part throughout the shaping operation; wherein the electrical circuit has an open condition and a closed condition, further including the step of preventing the establishment of a closed electrical circuit with an electrode when a waste cloud of reaction products are present in the space between the work surface and the machining surface of the electrode.