Abstract
Complex milling processes often require extensive preliminary checks in order to avoid collisions between the tool, clamping device and workpiece. The resulting costs can only be allocated to a few workpieces, especially in small series production, and represent a challenge in view of the increasing complexity of product portfolios. This article presents a method for automatic collision avoidance in milling. A process-parallel simulation is coupled directly with the machine tool in order to precisely detect collisions and enable dynamic reactions. The results show that the proposed method could successfully avoid 100 % of provoked collisions and thus can significantly increase the efficiency of machining processes.