Production with virtual machines and plants

Abstract

This paper describes a new application of virtual reality technology (VR) to the simulation of turning and milling machines and the handling of component parts by robotics. The simulation to exact production parameters of a complex production line consisting of a couple of machines together with robotics as a complete plant by a single software tool is currently not possible. With the aid of a new application of VR, it is feasible to connect several specialized software products and their simulation results. The use of VR, in which models simulate the production with virtual machines and plants, makes it feasible to obtain the same production parameters as from physical prototypes. With such an application used in the engineering and design processes of new products and complex production lines, manufacturers are able to save a lot of both development time and costs. © Springer-Verlag London 2013.