Development of a machining simulator considering machine behaviour

High-speed machining gives much potential, for increasing the efficiency of the milling operation, but it requires very careful preparation for the milling process to use this potential. A machining simulator has been developed that can analyse dynamic errors due to tool deflections and machine dynamic behaviour using a three-dimensional solid simulation model. This kind of simulator would be a useful tool to apply in high-speed machining where it is necessary to obtain very well prepared part programs considering dynamic errors as well as geometrical errors. In this short communication, an algorithm will be introduced to estimate the dynamic errors caused by machine dynamic behaviour. Specifically, this algorithm predicts real feed rates and tracking errors considering the limits of numerical controllers and machine tools. The efficiency of the algorithm has been verified through several experiments with various tool paths. In addition, the algorithm has been integrated into the machining simulator. Some results obtained from the machining simulator concerning the estimation of tracking errors will be reported.