An NC Code Based Machining Movement Simulation Method for a Parallel Robotic Machine

摘要

The virtual machine tool and Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM) simulation are widely adopted nowadays to lower the cost and save time. Although parallel robotic machines are becoming popular in industry due to its unique advantages in manufacturing application, few methods are available for its simulation. This paper presents a work achieved by combining conventional CAM analysis tool HSMWorks, Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software SolidWorks, and programming tools such as Python and MATLAB to realize the machining movement simulation of a parallel robotic machine. Firstly, an original NC code interpreter is compiled in Python that interprets G-code generated by HSMWorks. Then, necessary coordinate transformation and kinematic calculation are done by using MATLAB. Finally, driving data are imported into virtual machine tool in SolidWorks, and a complete motion simulation environment is then developed. The proposed method is a general approach, which can be upgraded and modified for the simulation of parallel robotic machines with any structure.