A soft computing system to perform face milling operations

Abstract

In this paper we present a soft computing system developed to optimize the face milling operation under High Speed conditions in the manufacture of steel components like molds with deep cavities. This applied research presents a multidisciplinary study based on the application of neural projection models in conjunction with identification systems, in order to find the optimal operating conditions in this industrial issue. Sensors on a milling centre capture the data used in this industrial case study defined under the frame of a machine-tool that manufactures industrial tools. The presented model is based on a two-phase application. The first phase uses a neural projection model capable of determine if the data collected is informative enough. The second phase is focus on identifying a model for the face milling process based on low-order models such as Black Box ones. The whole system is capable of approximating the optimal form of the model. Finally, it is shown that the Box-Jenkins algorithm, which calculates the function of a linear system from its input and output samples, is the most appropriate model to control such industrial task for the case of steel tools. © 2009 Springer Berlin Heidelberg.