A new measurement method for machine tool thermal deformation on a two-dimensional trajectory using a tracking interferometer

Abstract Accuracy measurement of tool trajectory in machining space is one of the most essential evaluations for machine tools. It is deformed by the ambient temperature changes, heat generation from machine operations and cutting processes. In this study, a novel method to evaluate two-dimensional machining plane with high accuracy in short time by a laser tracker is presented. Evaluation and visualization of the relationship between the temperatures change due to heat generation and the thermal deformation in machining space is achieved by this method. It also contributes to further higher accuracy of the machine tool in development phase.