In the 1990s and early 2000s, the field of parallel kinematics was viewed as
being potentially transformational in manufacturing, having multiple
potential advantages over conventional serial machine tools and robots. Many
prototypes were developed, and some reached commercial production and
implementation in areas such as hard material machining and particularly in
aerospace manufacturing and assembly. There is some activity limited to
niche and specialist applications; however, the technology never quite
achieved the market penetration and success envisaged. Yet, many of the
inherent advantages still exist in terms of stiffness, force capability, and
flexibility when compared to more conventional machine structures.
This chapter will attempt to identify why parallel kinematic machines (PKMs)
have not lived up to the original excitement and market interest and what
needs to be done to rekindle that interest. In support of this, a number of
key questions and issues have been identified which need to be explored to
advance the technology further. In this chapter, we establish the history
and current state of the art of PKMs and identify key issues that unlock the
technology’s potential. We have sought the views of recognized thought
leaders to understand the practical limitations that have hindered
deployment and what, if anything, can be done to move the technology forward
given the prospective advantages.