CNC machine tools are designed such that a number of axes are used to position
end-effectors in a precise manner.  Each axis typically requires a servo motor drive
system and ball-screw-feeds.  Each physical axis of movement adds to the
complexity and cost of a machine tool.

In the case of this research, undertaken by Doctoral Research candidate Glenn Brien,
and the ANCA team, a sophisticated piece of software was developed to enable
machine programmers the ability to program a five-axis machine as though it had
seven axes.  In other words, machine users had the flexibility of programming a
seven axis machine but the cost of a five-axis machine.  The software that was
developed was patented by ANCA and is known as the "Soft Axis" system.  The
development was internationally recognised and led to Doctoral Researcher Glenn
Brien and the ANCA team winning the Rolls Royce Qantas award for excellence.



Collaborators:  ANCA Pty. Ltd.
Doctortee.net
Soft Axis Control of Machine Tools