Modelling and simulation of process: machine interaction in grinding

This article presents an overview of current simulation methods describing the interaction of grinding process and grinding machine structure, e.g., vibrations, deflections, or thermal deformations. Innovative process models which describe the effects of the grinding wheel-workpiece interaction inside the contact zone are shown in detail. Furthermore, simulation models representing the static and dynamic behaviour of a grinding machine and its components are discussed. Machine tool components with a high influence on the process results are modelled more detailed than those with low influence. The key issue of the paper is the coupling of process and machine tool models for predicting the interactions of process and machine. Several coupling methods are introduced and the improvements of the simulation results are documented. On the basis of the presented simulation approaches, grinding processes and machines can be designed more effectively resulting in higher workpiece quality and process stability.