Kinematic errors identification of three-axis machine tools based on machined work pieces

Abstract Evaluating machine tool performance under machining conditions is generally used as the final test in machine tool industry. The seventh part of ISO-10791 describes a machining test using the accuracy of a finished work piece to determine the accuracy of three-axis machine tools. However the kinematic errors cannot be distinguished from each other by means of these test pieces. In this paper a new method to identify the kinematic errors of three-axis machine tool is proposed. A set of test pieces are designed where the kinematic errors of a machine tool can be measured separately along X, Y and Z directions. A volumetric error model is also presented based on the measured errors. This method is initially evaluated in virtual environment and then with some test pieces designed for this purpose. The results are compared with the laser interferometry measurements. It is shown that the measured positioning and straightness errors are consistent with the laser interferometry results. Angular errors measured by the test pieces are also complied with the laser interferometry results as long as the angular error magnitudes are large enough.