The structural behavior of machine tools has a large influence on the achievable tolerances. Vibrations of a machine tool structure result in poor surface finish. Small modifications in highly dynamic machine tools on the component level may cause unpredictable changes in overall machine tool behavior. A multibody system (MBS) is able to predict product kinematics and dynamics. The authors propose a matrix based approach to combine solution neutral system representation, solution specific product representation, and product behavior in order to improve system comprehension. It comprises knowledge and experience that occur along the whole product lifecycle of machine tools and can be utilized to support preprocessing and validation of flexible multibody systems (fMBS). A case study carried out together with a major industrial partner illustrates the suggested approach. This paper exemplifies the matrix based product representation at composing a flexible multibody simulation of a highly dynamic linear gear shaping machine. Preparation and evaluation of the product representation enhances inter domain root cause analysis as well as preprocessing and validation of flexible multibody models.

Computer aided engineering (CAE) provides proper means to support New Product Development (NPD) by simulation tools. Simulation furthers early identification of product characteristics to reduce costs and time. The applicability of simulation models in NPD strongly depends on their validity, thus validating a simulation poses a major issue to provide correct experimentation results. The authors propose a matrix based approach to combine solution neutral system representation, solution specific product representation, and product behaviour in order to raise system comprehension to support validation of simulation models. A case study exemplifies the suggested approach. This paper illustrates the matrix based product representation at composing a flexible multibody simulation of a highly dynamic linear shafting machine tool. The approach supports preprocessing and validation of a flexible multibody simulation model.