The finite element analysis and optimization of static stiffness of a parallel machine tool with actuation redundancy

The static stiffness of a parallel machine tool with actuation redundancy was analyzed using the finite element analysis method. The three-dimensional model built by UGNX2.0 was imported into the finite element analysis software ABAQUS for the stiffness analysis. The machine tool stiffness was computed for various configurations. The results show that the redundantly actuated parallel machine tool stiffness was better than the common parallel machine tool along the x, y and z direction. The machine tool stiffness is worse along x, y direction while that along z direction is better. For improving the stiffness along the x, y direction, two methods by modifying the component structure of the machine tool were presented. The method provides theoretical analysis reliance for design and optimization of machine tools