The high potential of industrial robots in the machining process to empower mass customization: Advantages and deficiencies

Abstract

Today, the majority of machining operations are performed with CNC machine tools thanks to the high machining accuracy and repeatability. However, the need for dedicated machines for different machining operations is a disadvantage of CNC machine tools customized for the process to be applied. Therefore, a multifunctional and lower-cost industrial robot could have the potential to replace existing machine tools. In this chapter, the high potential of robotic machining in mass production systems is introduced. The deficiencies of robotic manufacturing to obstacles in its direct application to all kinds of chip re- movalprocesses is discussed. Theparameters affecting the robot's stiffness are discussed. It is explained how the robot configuration should be optimized for minimum vibration. In addition, the approaches to determine the most suitable tool path to reduce vibration and improve surface quality are explained. Finally, active vibration-damping methods applied in the literature that can be used to prevent vibration in robotic chip removal processes are introduced. © 2023, IGI Global. All rights reserved.