Sensorless Simultaneous Rotary-Translational Axis Motion Error Measurement and Trace Based on Virtual Bar

Simultaneous rotary-translational (R-T) axis motion error has significant influence on multi-axis machine tool precision. To improve multi-axis machine tool precision, axis motion error measurement and trace method are investigated in this study. A sensorless R-T axis motion error measurement and trace technology based on virtual bar is proposed. Firstly, the fundamental sensorless test principle is discussed. Then, the virtual-bar-based test path of a circular test though a rotary axis and two translational axes motion is scheduled. The mathematical model of motion error is established. Furthermore, to identify the error source, spatial error charts and some advanced signal processing and feature extraction technologies, such as wavelet transform and frequency analysis, are used. The analysis of experimental results shows that it is practical and efficient to use the virtual bar and the sensorless information to estimate motion error.Copyright © 2010 by ASME