Geometric accuracy long-term continuous monitoring using strain gauges for CNC machine tools

The accuracy retentivity has become one of the most important performance index of CNC machine tools, which are affected by many complicated factors, such as stress-induced deformations, bolt preload loss, wear, and the manufacturing process itself. The long-term continuous monitoring can bridge the wide gap between the accuracy retentivity and the manufacturing processing of machine tools. In this research, a geometric accuracy monitoring approach using the discrete strain gauges is proposed. The machine basis is firstly simplified based on the structural characteristics and stress condition. And, the straightness is evaluated through the reconstructed strain field of machine tool basis. Finally, to verify the validity of our method, a vertical machining center has been monitored for 7 months using the established wireless monitoring system.