New design of a low-cost micro machine tool with the high-precision variable-resolution mechanism

Due to the manufacturing requirement of miniature high-tech products, micro machining using a micro machine tool and the application of micro-desk-factory have been recognized as important technologies for modern industry. A low cost micro machine tool with more friendly functions can facilitate the practical implementation of micro machining for industry. Thus, the main goal of this study is to design a low-cost and high-precision micro machine tool which can perform high-resolution and high-accuracy machining without use of expensive drive components and a high-end CNC controller. The machine can also provide adjustable feed resolution and works range for different micro machining application. New configuration design, structure design/analysis, development of kinematics equations, and prototype development were made in this study. Finally, verification experiments were conducted, and the results showed that the machine can provide micro machining with positioning accuracy of 400 nm.