Digital Twins of Hybrid Additive and Subtractive Manufacturing Systems–A Review

Abstract

Digital twins of hybrid additive and subtractive manufacturing systems refer to the creation of virtual replicas of these systems, which combine both additive and subtractive manufacturing processes. These digital twins are designed to simulate and optimize the entire manufacturing process, from the initial design to the finished product, using data from the physical system. Hybrid additive and subtractive manufacturing systems are becoming increasingly popular in modern manufacturing processes due to their ability to combine the benefits of both additive and subtractive processes. These systems can produce complex geometries with high precision and accuracy, while also being able to remove excess material and achieve smoother surface finishes. Digital twins of these systems allow manufacturers to simulate and optimize the entire manufacturing process in a virtual environment, before implementing it in the physical system. This enables them to identify and mitigate any potential issues or inefficiencies in the process, leading to reduced costs, improved quality, and faster time-to-market. The creation of digital twins involves the use of advanced modeling and simulation tools, as well as the integration of data from multiple sources, such as CAD models, sensor data, and historical performance data. These tools enable manufacturers to create accurate and realistic virtual replicas of their hybrid additive and subtractive manufacturing systems, which can be used for a variety of purposes, such as design optimization, process validation, and performance monitoring. Overall, digital twins of hybrid additive and subtractive manufacturing systems are a powerful tool for modern manufacturers, providing them with the ability to optimize their manufacturing processes and achieve better results with reduced costs and faster turnaround times.