Geometrical optimization of centerless grinding process by profiled workrest

This work presents a method to optimize centerless grinding geometrical configuration. It is based on the regulation of the horizontal axes ofoperating and regulating wheels of the machine, coupled with an opportune blade profile, allowing a contin- uous selection of workrest angle and workpiece height, without requiring blade substitution and/or manual interventions. The regulation ofworkrest angle and height cannot be done independently: their relationship is defined during blade profile design. In machines with two independent axes for regulating wheel and blade horizontal displacement, this regulation can be performed in process or in the setup phase. This results in optimal processing parameter choice leading to improved quality and shorter processing time as well as reduced setup time.