Indirect Cutting Force Measurement and Cutting Force Regulation Using Spindle Motor Current

Quasti-static cutting force variations in milling process are measured indirectly using spindle motor current. Quasi-static sensitivity of the spindle motor current is higher than that of the feed motor current. Magnitude of the spindle motor current is independent of cutting direction. The linear relationship between the cutting force and the spimdle motor RMS current at various spindle rotational speed is obtained. Frequency/ Voltage(F/V) converter voltage is measured to identify the spindle speed and to determine the cutting force at various spindle speeds. Overload on the tool during milling process can be detected using the proposed indirect cutting force measurement. Based on these measurements, cutting force is regulated at a constant level by feedrate control.