Effect of Rack and Pinion Feed Drive Control Parameters on Machine Tool Dynamics

In large heavy-duty machine tool applications, the parametrization of the controller that is used for the positioning of the machine can affect the machine tool dynamics. The aim of this paper is to build a Multiple-Input and Multiple-Output model that couples the servo controller and machine tool dynamics to predict the frequency response function (FRF) at the cutting point. The model is experimentally implemented and validated in an electronically preloaded rack and pinion machine tool. In addition, the influence of each control parameter on the machine tool’s compliance is analysed.