Multibody simulation of machine tools as mechatronic systems for optimization of motion dynamics in the design process

Increasing demands on the productivity of machine tools and their growing technological complexity call for improved methods in future product development processes. This paper explains the application of integrated CAx tools for setting up a virtual prototype that will permit evaluation and optimization of the entire machine tool's motion dynamics in early phases of the development process. Based on the multibody-system simulation approach, a mechatronic model of the entire machine tool is established. The multibody model considers flexible machine structural components, guideways, feed drive dynamics, axis controllers and the motion trajectory generation of the NC control. Multibody system simulation extends the scope for analyzing interactions between machine components and the resulting motion dynamic characteristics in terms of elapsed time. An overview of opportunities to derive optimizing mechatronic design modifications is given.