Principles for Interconnection of Modular Machine Tool Frames

An approach for reusable and adaptable machine tool frames is the modularization of the frame structure by breakdown to hexagonal primitives. The design of small light weight modules allows for the assembly of a high variation of different geometries and enables scalable structures. However, a core issue in designing modular products is the proper definition of interfaces within the own product family and the outside, by which the usability and flexibility of the modular structure is mainly influenced. In the context of modular machine tool frames, conventional mechanical criteria like stiffness, reliability and cost are key factors when designing new joining techniques. Taking sustainability into account, additional aspects of social, economic and ecologic dimension become important. This paper presents a study on reusable connection principles for modular machine tool frames and gives an evaluation according to sustainability criteria by using a fuzzy analytical network process.