An efficient error compensation system for CNC multi-axis machines

To enhance a machine’s ability for a precision machining task, an efficient compensation scheme that takes all error sources into account is needed. In this study, an effective static/quasi-static error compensation system composed of an interpolation algorithm based on shape functions for error prediction, and a recursive software compensation procedure, was developed. The new error prediction scheme is efficient enough to be implemented on-line, taking into consideration the fact that the machine structure is non-rigid. In addition, an automatic NC code converting software was also developed so that the developed system could be applied to practical machining for CNC multi-axis machines. To verify the algorithm and system, cutting experiments were conducted, and the results have shown the success of the proposed error compensation system.  2002 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.