Potential of Linear Direct Drives and Resulting Demands on Machine Tool Structures

The design of fast machine tools which offer high manufacturing accuracy by employing high performance axis drives requires careful design not only of the individual components of the machine but of the entire machine structure. The overall consideration of the machine tool with its critical components, such as structure, frame and drives, represents a viable approach to achieving a qualitative improvement with regard to increased dynamics and accuracy. During the conceptual design phase of a machine tool for high-speed machining, special attention has to be given to its structure and frame, since very high inertia loads occur as a result of high accelerations caused by the feed drives. In the case of conventional machines these forces play a secondary role.