In the context of one of the top 5 trade fairs worldwide for metal-cutting technology, the AMB in Stuttgart, Germany, a very interesting interview was published on the future development of machine tools (Interview published in German language on www.form-werkzeug.de)
Prof. Dr.-Ing. Christian Brecher, one of the heads of the Laboratory for Machine Tools and Production Engineering (WZL) at RWTH Aachen University gives insight in main trends around machine tools.
In general machine tools are steadily becoming more precisely, faster and better. On the other hand nothing changes due to the basic technical principles of these machines. But in the context of industry 4.0 and other similar initiatives machine tools need to be opened up.
According to Prof. Dr.-Ing Christian Brecher two aspects are important here:
The first one is about digitalization and virtualization of machine tools. This means a significant transformation of the engineering process to provide complete digital machine tools including the static and dynamic behavior for example. Simulation is key here to predict and analyze the machine behavior right up to the shop floor.
A second aspect is related to connectivity during the operating phase of machine tools. Future machines need to provide interfaces to deliver detailed process data for deeper analysis or to integrate in interlinked systems.
Why does this matter to our DELMIA 3DExperience machining solution?
Our basic idea of Machining is to program and control NC machines in a lifelike 3D environment, which means that the programming is done in a virtual world that is as close to the world of the real shop floor as we can make it.
Based on this vision the objective is clearly to deliver a Machining solution which includes the best-in-class tool path generator, taking into account the cutter, holder, NC accessories, machine and controller necessary to machine a part with a high level of automation and deep integration with design and process planning. This is the main difference with V5, where just the tool was the focus of the programming activities. In 3DExperince the machine is the center of the NC programmers activities.
That‘s why we use to say: „We program and simulate a machine not just a tool“
Against this background we would like to encourage you to think about the potential of DELMIA 3DExperience Machining because this is really a future-oriented and sustainable Machining solution.
When you are talking to your customers and prospects, a discussion about features and functions might be not enough. Perhaps a strategic discussion is helpful to figure out where you customer would like to be with the complete Machining environment (programming, machine tools, tool shop etc.) in the near and middle future.
For additional information on DELMIA 3DExperience Machining please contact Thomas Griese (thomas.griese@3ds.com) orJean-Marc Cauzac (jean-marc.cauzac@3ds.com).
