Papers by Keyword: Miniature Machine Tool

Abstract: Custom-built Miniature Machine Tools (MMTs) are now becoming more popular with the demand for reduced energy consumption and workshop floor when machining small/medium batch size micro-components. This paper investigates the capability of a custom-built 4-axis MMT through machining a micro-component demonstrator. The experiments have been carried out in Titanium Alloyed (TiAL6V4) using 0.6mm solid carbide flat end mill cutters. From here, the surface quality and geometrical accuracy of the machined testpiece are evaluated and analysed. The investigation has shown that acceptable geometrical accuracies and surface quality of the machined micro-demonstrator can be achieved using the in-house developed MMT. These results show that the use of the custom-made MMT does not hinder the micro-milling process to produce a good and satisfactory surface quality and acceptable geometrical accuracy.

Abstract: The optical measuring device developed in this study is based on laser autocollimation and can measure the radial error motions of a miniature ultra-high-speed spindle having a maximum rotational speed of 200 krpm. The maximum response frequency of this optical measuring device is over 500 kHz, while the frequency of the radial error motion at 200 krpm is 3.33 kHz for 1 undulation per revolution (upr), and 333 kHz for 100 upr. In addition, the optical measuring device is capable of a highly detailed analysis of the radial error motion of a miniature ultra-high-speed spindle since it has a high signal-to-noise ratio due to little susceptibility to electrical noises.

Abstract: As has been demonstrated in the “microfactory” which is a miniature manufacturing system proposed by the author’s research group, small machine tools that are comparable in size to their target products lead to large reductions in energy consumption and area. Experiments showed that they were capable of micro mechanical fabrication. However, the design of miniature machine tools has not been fully optimized. The author proposed a design method to estimate machine tool performance. In this paper, the design tool is applied to find miniaturizing strategies. By applying the design tool, it is possible to determine which of the design parameters and error sources would significantly affect machine performance. From the results of calculation, the tool can clarify the effect of machine tool sizes imposed on the machine performances. This leads to some suggestions regarding machine tool sizes. Finally, design guidelines for miniature machine can be obtained.