Development of an ultra-high-speed machine using a parallel link mechanism

Since changes in market trends occur faster compared to the past and the market itself has become extremely diversified, the production line in plants needs to feature higher levels of flexibility and agility. To achieve goals, one possible option is the use of a single-spindle ultra-high-speed machine with a parallel link mechanism, which would substitute the conventional multi-spindle machine. Multi-spindle-type machinery has been widely used in aluminum component machining/transferring facilities, including, among others, those for cylinder blocks and cylinder heads. To ensure the required production line flexibility, it is necessary to modify the machinery to minimize the investment and lead time for new model production. This paper reports on the background, target and structure of parallel link-type machinery.