This study presents a new method to generate machine structural configurations of MRmMT (Modular-Reconfigurable micro Machine Tool) systematically in the embodiment design step. The two core approaches to create machine tool structural configurations,...
This study presents a new method to generate machine structural configurations of MRmMT (Modular-Reconfigurable micro Machine Tool) systematically in the embodiment design step. The two core approaches to create machine tool structural configurations, in our proposed design method, are cryptographic mapping and machining function proving. Cryptographic mapping approach includes; 1) encoding all the structure modules into binary codes and then storing the graphics and digital codes in the module library, 2) cryptographic operating to create possible combined configurations from any two or several modules by using vector quadratic form expansion of the encoded binary codes, 3) to obtain the resulting structural configurations by decoding the operated binary codes using the module library. Machining function proving is to check up machining ability of a created machine tool configuration. Machining function proving is basically achieved by scalar product of the direction vectors of spindle (or tool) and table (or work piece) modules. Our method was well applied and succeeded in creating feasible machine configurations for a 3-axes reconfigurable micro milling machine from 7 modules spindle, table, bed, column, and 3-translational slide modules.