Development of a virtual reality environment for training in the operation of a conventional milling machine
Abnel Sanchez-Sierra1, Steven Galvis-Holguin2 and Jorge Sierra-Del Rio2
Department of Mechatronics,Faculty of Engineering, Instituto Tecnológico Metropolitano,Medellín,Colombia2
Corresponding Author : Steven Galvis-Holguin
Recieved : 08-June-2025; Revised : 19-February-2026; Accepted : 21-March-2026
Abstract
This article presents the development of a virtual reality (VR) simulation for training in the operation of the ZX7550CW conventional milling machine. The proposed methodology comprises three main stages: (i) digitization and texturing of three-dimensional (3D) models using Blender™, (ii) design of an immersive interface in Unity® using the UltimateXR framework, and (iii) partial emulation of the machine’s mechanical operation. Two versions of the virtual model were implemented: an interactive version that allows users to manipulate key components such as handwheels, tables, and tools, and a passive version that presents predefined animations of the machine’s operation. The resulting simulation provides an immersive and instructional experience, accurately reproducing the kinematic behavior of the physical milling machine within a virtual environment. The digitization stage established a consistent and efficient geometric foundation for representing machine components, while the interface design enabled the development of a robust and immersive environment that enhances user–machine interaction. Finally, the emulation stage successfully replicated the manual kinematics of the milling machine, demonstrating the potential of the proposed system as an effective VR-based educational tool for machining training.
Keywords
Virtual reality, Milling machine simulation, VR-based training, Unity 3D, Kinematic modelling, Immersive learning
Cite this article
Sanchez-Sierra A, Galvis-Holguin S, Sierra-Del Rio J. Development of a virtual reality environment for training in the operation of a conventional milling machine. International Journal of Advanced Technology and Engineering Exploration. 2026;13(136):335-352. DOI : 10.19101/IJATEE.2025.121220760
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