The literature describes how machine tools errors are often characterized. Once a machine is built, a series of measurements are made to describe the error behavior. MTU has spent the last two years researching the effects of manufacturing and assembly inaccuracies on the resulting error of a machine tool slideway. For a single-track slideway, analytical and experimental methods were used to relate form errors to pitch variation. In addition, clearances were related to yaw errors.
Joints are a major source of damping in MT structures.
For nearly 4 years attention at MTU has been directed at understanding how both fixed and sliding joint conditions influence the energy dissipation associated with vibration. Experimental evidence indicates that fixed joints provide little energy dissipation unless an energy absorbing material is provided between mating surfaces. Modal analysis of slideways has been conducted to examine factors effecting damping potential of slideway joint. Again, clearance appears to be an important design consideration as far as slideway designed damping is concerned. Although attention has not been directed to Stewart Platforms as heavily at MTU as at UIUC for example, some work has been completed.