Geometric Error Measurement of Rotary Axes on Five-Axis Machine Tools: A Review

For achieving high precision and effectiveness in five-axis computer numerical control (CNC) machine tools, the geometrical accuracy of the rotary axes is a crucial performance criterion. Furthermore, recent advancements in commercial CNCs for machine tools have enabled the numerical compensation for all parameters of geometric errors within rotary axes. As a result, this paper initially delves into the evolution of ISO standards concerning the accuracy testing and error definition in machine tools. Subsequently, the classifications of the rotary axis’s geometric errors in five-axis machine tools are described in this paper. Moreover, this paper comprehensively reviews various measurement schemes aimed at identifying the geometric errors of rotary axes. These measurement schemes are categorized based on the measurement instruments or technologies employed. Finally, it is essential to emphasize that this paper offers an overview of diverse measurement theories and technologies pertaining to geometric errors in rotary axes. The primary aim is to contribute to the progression of geometric error measurement and compensation in five-axis machine tools.