Recent Advances in Multiaxis Control and Multitasking Machining

Abstract

This paper presents an overview of recent advances in multiaxis control and multitasking machining, the machine tools’ kinematic configurations, and the supporting and cutting technologies used for complex form shaping. The functions of the metal cutting machine tools have been expanded to meet high productivity and high accuracy requirements for machining complicated and difficult parts on a single machine. Among these functions, the increase in the number of controlled axes and the multitasking capability in one chucking process enable machine tools to manufacture complex products efficiently. The historical background and application field of machine tools are discussed, mainly by taking examples from turning- and milling-based machining. Then, research challenges to improve machining results are introduced. This paper also presents examples of the latest cutting technologies and the current status of related supporting technologies.