MRI: Development of a Parallel Machine Tool for Research and Education in Advanced Manufacturing

Missouri University Of Science And Technology, Rolla MO

Investigators

Abstract

This Major Research Instrumentation (MRI) project provides for the development of a parallel machine tool for research and education in advanced manufacturing. The parallel machine tool will have the capability to perform parallel milling and drilling operations on both cylindrical and prismatic parts, as well as parallel lathing operations on cylindrical parts. The developed parallel machine tool will have an open control system providing for the ability to easily reconfigure the software structure and the monitoring, control, and diagnostic modules. The open control platform will provide the means to implement process planning and control laboratories in advanced manufacturing automation courses. Research projects that will be conducted on the developed parallel machine tool include hierarchical and process control, process planning for multiple cutting tools, object-oriented and fault tolerant manufacturing software systems, and virtual and internet manufacturing. Parallel machine tools utilize multiple tools simultaneously, but independently, on a single part. Thus, these machine tools offer the benefits of increased productivity due to multiple operations being performed simultaneously, increased quality due to a reduction in the number of setups, and decreased floor space. Further, their flexibility will make parallel machine tools a key component in future reconfigurable manufacturing enterprises. The development of the parallel machine tool in this proposal will create a platform for educational and research opportunities for this new class of machine tool.