Qualifying multi-technology machine tools for complex machining processes

Abstract Producing complex components requires a sequence of production steps which often includes machining and thermal treatment like hardening or deposition welding. Multiple processing technologies can be combined into a single machine to reduce logistic efforts in producing such components. This results in changing operating conditions and poses challenges to maintaining the machining accuracy. The presented research focuses on aspects which affect the accuracy of a machining center that operates in multiple workspaces. After a theoretical analysis of the potential precision loss, the major influences are examined experimentally on a multi-technology machine tool (MTMT) and an approach for a simulative analysis is developed. Motion synchronization between the machine tool and an integrated robot as well as the mechanical and thermal effects during processing are considered.