A technical approach of a simulation-based optimization platform for setup-preparation via virtual tooling by testing the optimization of zero point positions in CNC-applications

The automatic setup process using simulation-based optimization to provide production parameter sets such as workpiece position, zero point position, and tool range requires high evaluation effort including multiple virtual tooling machine simulation runs to find possible setup solutions. In this contribution, an approach is demonstrated for a general zero point optimization in combination with a NC-parser application for the fitness portion of the optimization system embedded as a preprocessing unit. This preprocessing step leads to near-optimal zero point position coordinates without the huge need for resources or time caused by a high number of iteration runs, which includes complete simulation runs of the virtual tooling machine. This preprocessing optimization unit is implemented using an extended population-based optimization technique to support work preparation, planning departments and industrial project managements.