Analysis of the Scale Effect for Microscale Machine Tools

Miniaturization of conventional machine tools has been initiated due to inherent technical and economical advantages. To support further development in this area, a systematic design scheme must be developed on a quantitative basis to reduce the subjective design of miniaturized machine tools. The present work is the size optimization of the miniaturized milling machine on the basis of the proposed design strategy. This design strategy includes individual mathematical computations of key parameters such as volumetric error, machine working space, static, thermal, and dynamic stiffness. This mathematical modeling is established by using analytical methods followed by experimental validation. Individual computations based on the mathematical modeling are carried out to produce the penalty function of the miniaturized milling machine which is then used to find out the optimal dimension. In addition to this, the sensitivity of weighing factors is discussed to find out which weighing factor is more effective to an optimal solution. This study will eventually contribute to the development of more precise miniaturized machine tools.