A multi-body model of machine tool feed drives

A multi-body method of analysis and modelling for machine tool feed drive systems is presented in this paper. Included in the study are the mechanical transmission elements comprising the axis motor and the power train of an axis drive system. The model is derived by means of block diagram algebra based on the theoretical analysis. A comparison between the linear and non-linear models is presented and based on these results it is shown that the effect of the non-linearties in the representation is significant. A method for describing the effects of stiffness, backlash and friction in the drive system of a machine tool in block diagram form is presented. The resulting representation facilitates simulation which is used to investigate performance variations following parameter adjustments and setting changes.