Machine Tool Technologies for High Performance Machines

Multi-processing and multi-axis machines are mainstream products in the near future machine tool market. Due to the structural complexities, it is not easy to understand the physical phenomena related with the performance characteristics such as accuracy and speed. Structural parasitic motion occurring in a weak machine tool structure degrades the movement precision in such a manner that both the surface finish and contour of the workpiece are affected. Though increase in the number of controlled axes underlines a complex set of constraints in analysis and control, we can identify weak links and improve them with modern engineering tools. In some cases, embedded control function can be effectively used for automatically compensating mechanical defects. In this regard, some case studies will be presented from the recent experiences in the field of multi-processing and multi-axis machine tools.