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Published on: January 20, 2023
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Design and Analysis of Ultra-Precision Smart Cutting Tool for In-Process Force Measurement and Tool Nanopositioning
Shahrokh Hatefi1, Farouk Smith1
1Department of Mechatronics, Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment and Technology, Nelson Mandela University, Port Elizabeth 6000, South Africa.
Micromachines
|October 28, 2023
Summary
A novel smart cutting tool measures and compensates for cutting forces during single-point diamond turning (SPDT). This innovation enhances real-time monitoring, optimizing machining parameters for superior optical surface finishes.
Area of Science:
- Advanced Manufacturing
- Materials Science
- Mechanical Engineering
Background:
- Single-point diamond turning (SPDT) is crucial for optical components, demanding nanometer-level precision.
- Cutting forces significantly impact SPDT quality, causing tool wear, thermal issues, and positioning errors.
- Real-time force measurement is vital for monitoring tool wear and surface defects during SPDT.
Purpose of the Study:
- To design and analyze a smart cutting tool for in-process force measurement during SPDT.
- To develop a tool capable of nanopositioning for compensating diamond tool displacements.
- To enable real-time monitoring and control for improved surface finish in SPDT.
Main Methods:
- Design and analysis of a smart cutting tool integrating force sensors and nanopositioning actuators.
- Development of a wireless system for seamless integration into SPDT platforms.
- Validation through simulation and comparison with an analytical model.
Main Results:
- The smart cutting tool successfully measures applied forces on the diamond tool.
- The tool demonstrates the capability to correct nanometric positioning displacements in three dimensions.
- Simulation results show strong agreement with the derived analytical model.
Conclusions:
- The proposed smart cutting tool offers a promising solution for real-time force measurement and tool positioning in SPDT.
- This technology can lead to enhanced control over the machining process, achieving superior optical surface finishes.
- The wireless and intelligent design facilitates integration into advanced SPDT platforms.

