Representation of flexural mechanism enabled in the spindle head of a micro-drilling machine tool in a PLM environment

Abstract

The advent of designing flexural systems was to provide accurate micro and nano displacement between the assembly members of a mechanism. Applications that used these mechanisms were found in linear compressors, opto-mechanical devices, Stirling engines, cryocoolers, micro check valves, flexure-based electromagnetic linear actuators, and so on. This article focuses on machine tool building of a flexural mechanism encased in the spindle head of a micro-drilling head. The mechanism provides a cushioning effect to the micro drill and saves it from permanent damage upon receiving undeclared resistance from the material matrix. Furthermore, this article focuses specifically on building a three-axis micro-drilling machine tool in a product lifecycle management environment only. The study follows a systematized approach for validation of the machine tool design, starting with the hierarchical assembly of components using various kinematic chains. The next phase involves assigning the necessary motions to these components. The final stage utilizes a virtual controller and post-processor to simulate and control machine tool movements. Validation is then performed on the simulated workpiece to ensure design accuracy and functionality, which is 100%.