Analysis of volumetric error of machine tool based on Monte Carlo method

The volumetric error of machine tool directly influences the machining accuracy. In this paper, Monte Carlo method is used to analyze the volumetric error of machine tool from multi-perspective. The basic process of analysis method is given and a case study of volumetric error of an orthogonal three-axis machine tool is carried out, in which the positional error at given point and moving path of the cutting tool is the focus. The case study shows that Monte Carlo method is an effective tool to obtain the probabilistic distribution characteristics of positional error in arbitrary point and moving path in the workspace. This analysis method can provide abundant information for the error compensation and machining process planning.