High accuracy on-machine inspection based on rotation theory of multi-axis machine tool

Abstract On-machine inspection is an important technology for the precision fabrication. Plagued by overlapping structure and positioning error from machine tool, it is a challenge to generate an on-machine inspection path. In this paper, a rotation theory is investigated for balancing efficiency and accuracy. Based on the kinematic chain of the machine tool, an accessible space graph is established to demonstrate this theory. The least rotations, the least direction reversions can be recognized from this graph. In term of these principles, an orientation planning method is proposed for the parts with overlapping free-form surface. At last, the advantages of proposed path generation method are verified on an impeller’s on-machine inspection.