Hi All - Been rebuilding Milli with the FE cars and rails. Results are good. Can now do some more optimisation and maybe more generative work. This model uses fiberglass infused laminate with E=30GPa. Can get to 40GPa but will start low. So now I've decided to aim at 20N/um this means the bonded FE model target is 40N/um which may not be possible with glass (or epoxy granite). Or I aim at 10N/um so need 20 in the model and I'm there. Will look at its envelope now and adjust then refine. Spumco may have some stiffness figures for us soon?
I also ran a couple of models with the machine sitting on a floor with friction and applying two opposing internal loads as it would be in reality. The tool deflection was very similar so I haven't bothered to add that complexity to the development model yet. The base deflected in a slightly different way so it will be good to do it again once the details firm up... Peter
by the way the current model weighs 670kg so its a heavy bench mill... so a diet maybe required I was thinking about 300-400kg Hmmmm