Abstract:
A low-cost Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machine with 5 Degrees of Freedom
(DOF) is designed by combining 3 DOF translational motions along the x, y, and z axis
with two rotational DOF around the x and y axis which are known as pitch and yaw
respectively. In general, a three-axis CNC machine can perform movements about three
different axes which are primary x, y, and z. However, a five axes CNC machine can
perform rotation around two additional axes which are made possible by the table tilting
mechanism, which gives its superiority in approaching along multi-directional directions.
The design of 5 DOF CNC machines strives to provide freedom of operation for the
end effector of the proposed CNC machine to work on a relatively complex tool path
trajectory. The main objective of the proposed CNC machine is to construct a low-cost
machine with the available resources in the environment or institution yet incorporating
all the features that are required to provide precise finishing, a faster milling process,
and higher power efficiency compared to the conventional 5 DOF engraving machine. Gcodes
are normally read by PC-based controllers but in the case of large industrial CNC
machinery overheads caused by the complexity of trajectory and G-code increases the
equipment cost resulting in economically hurting the smaller and medium enterprises.
The machine is built using available materials in the environment thereby minimizing
the capital cost. The Proposed CNC machine is also incorporated with the automated
tool-changing mechanism in an attempt to reduce the processing time of the machine
as well. The proposed model is built by combining G-code and M-code along with an
automated tool-changing mechanism so that the machining process and automated toolchanging
mechanism can work sequentially. This research aims at retaining the low-end
functionality of the CNC machinery but at an affordable cost per machine.
