Error Source Diagnostics Using a Turning Process Simulator

Abstract

To improve productivity and quality in machining, it is necessary to understand the interactions among machine tool components and the cutting process. This paper presents a model that characterizes interactions among the subsystems of a computer numerically controlled (CNC) lathe. The model is combined with a cutting force model to obtain a comprehensive turning simulator that simulates the cutting forces and part dimensions. A series of calibration experiments are proposed and implemented for process simulation. The simulation results are good when compared with experimental measurements. The interactions among the subunits of a CNC lathe and the cutting process are found to be potentially important.