Geometric error measurement and identification for rotary table of multi-axis machine tool using double ballbar

• We propose a geometric error measurement method for rotary table by ballbar.
• The identification model can recognizes both linkage and volumetric errors.
• We apply sensitive analysis to select optimum installation parameters.
• We develop a four steps measurement procedure with series of circular path.
• We present a correction procedure for the inevitable ballbar mounting errors.

In this paper, comprehensive geometric errors, including linkage errors and volumetric errors, of a rotary table are measured totally by employing a double ballbar and obtained by a two-step identification procedure. The derivations of the center of the ball installed on the table are measured in the error sensitive directions with newly developed serial of two axes controlled circular paths. Hence, there are nine results measured from three mounting positions of the ball at the same rotation angle. These results are used to form the identification model based on the homogeneous transformation. Moreover, a sensitivity analysis method is applied to select the optimum installation parameters of the ballbar to diminish the influence of the inaccuracy of the measurement parameters. As the mounting position errors of the socket on the table are inevitable during the installation of the balls, a new correction procedure is developed as well. Finally, an experiment is conducted on the four-axis machining center. The comparison results between the predicted errors and the measured results are shown to verify the proposed method.