Development of a novel parallel manipulator based machine tools

A new type of 5-axis parallel machine tool based on a novel 4 degrees-of-freedom hybrid parallel platform manipulator with base mounted prismatic actuators is presented. This machine tool is different from the Stewart platform type parallel machine tool in that its feed motion in X-direction is realized by the worktable on which the workpiece is fixed instead of the movable platform of the manipulator. Due to this special architecture, the workspace in X-direction of the new machine tool is greatly enlarged. Its rigidity is higher because of the adaptation of a gantry structure. This machine tool is controlled by a PC-based NC system in simultaneous 5-axis control mode.