Autonomous System for Multistage Cylindrical Grinding

Abstract

An optimization strategy is presented for cylindrical plunge grinding operations. The optimization strategy is designed to minimize cycle time while satisfying production constraints. Monotonicity analysis together with local linearization are used to simplify the non-linear optimization problem and determine the process variables for the optimal cycle. At the end of each cycle, the uncertain parameters of the process are estimated from sensory data so as to provide a more accurate estimation of the optimal process variables for the subsequent cycle. The optimization strategy is validated both in simulation and for actual grinding tests.