Abstract
Methodology of volumetric error identification and compensation is presented to improve the accuracy of NC machine tools by using a reference artifact and a touch trigger probe. Homogeneous transformation matrix and kinematic chain are used for modeling the geo-metric and thermal errors of a three-axis vertical machining center. The reference artifact is designed and fabricated to identify the model parameters by machine tool metrology. Parameters in the error model are able to be identified and updated by direct measurement of the reference artifact on the machine tool under the actual conditions which include the thermal interactions of error sources. A volumetric error compensation system based on IBM/PC is linked with a FANUC CNC controller to compensate for the identified volumetric error in machining workspace.