Development of simulation system for machining process using enhanced Z map model

To verify NC programs as well as to optimize the cutting conditions, the importance of machining process simulation system is increasing. The paper discusses new approach for milling operation simulation using enhanced Z map algorithm. To extract the required geometric information from NC code, suggested algorithm uses supersampling method to enhance the efficiency of a simulation. By executing redundant Boolean operations in a grid cell and averaging down calculated data, presented algorithm can accurately represent material removal volume though tool swept volume is negligibly small. Supersampling method is the most common form of antialiasing and usually used with polygon mesh rendering in computer graphics. The key advantage of extended Z map is that the data structure is same with conventional Z map, though it can acquire higher accuracy and reliability with same or lower computation time. By simulating machining operation efficiently, this system can be used to improve the reliability and efficiency of NC machining process as well as the quality of the final product.