Abstract
Precision machine tools are essential elements in the fabrication of high-quality micro-sized products or micro-sized features and they directly affect the machining accuracy, repeatability, and efficiency. There is a significant literature on the design of the components that constitute an industrial machine tool. However, little effort has been expended on systematically addressing the design of precision machine tools from a dynamics point of view. In this paper, the issues associated with the design of precision machine tools are presented with particular emphasis being placed on dynamic aspects as the major factors that affect the performance of the precision machine tool and the machining processes. A brief review of the design principles of precision machine tools with an emphasis on machining dynamics is presented. Then, the design processes of precision machine tools and practical modelling and simulation approaches are discussed. Case studies on the design and analysis of a fast tool servo system and a five-axis bench-top micro-milling machine are reported. The design and analysis used in the two case studies are formulated based on the proposed design methodology and guidelines.