Structural Description of Machine Tools : 1st Report, Description Method and Some Applications

Abstract

The modular construction capable of manufacturing different kinds of machine tools using common modules (real modular construction) is recently of importance, not only to rationalize the design and manufacturing processes of machine tools, but also to evolve the computer aided manufacturing system. To realize the real modular construction system, a design methodology of it has to be developed, considering the extreme necessity of establishing the description method of machine tool structures. In this report, therefore, a method of the structural description, in which the concepts of the group technology and the flow of force in machine tool structures are used, has been proposed, also investigating its propriety through many practical applications.