Virtual prototypes for an energy-optimized product development process via hardware in the loop simulation

This article describes how to use virtual prototypes to achieve an energy-optimized product development process. The priority is mainly on the energy-related optimization of manufacturing processes and manufacturing strategies to be achieved through the use of the modern virtual reality technology in combination with the accompanying hardware in the loop simulation model. In order to create a well-founded methodological basis, the first step is the analysis of existing interfaces as well as new interfaces to be added within the considered product development process. Afterwards a hardware in the loop coupling between a real CNC and a VR model of a 5-axis milling machine will be shown.