Kinematic analysis and post-processing algorithm research for 5-axis CNC machine tools with a universal head

Improving the accuracy of 5-axis CNC machine tools is a problem for professional people to solve all the time. Its kinematic configuration and numerical control algorithm are crucial factors affecting errors. All the possible structural configurations of 5-axis CNC machine tools with a universal head were shown in this study. The optimal kinematic chain was presented from the view of kinematic errors and workpiece degrees of freedom (DOF). The general calculating formulation of tool center point (TCP) deduced by analyzed the special movement of 5-axis CNC machine tools with a universal head. It is pointed out that the tool axis orientation (TAO) only depends on rotational movements instead of translational ones. The post-processing algorithm of CAM programs was solved out through compound transmission matrix. It was concluded that TCP coordinate value, tool axis orientation and postprocessing algorithm can not be changed with the sequence change of movement axes for 5-axis CNC machine tools with a universal head.