Machining error compensation using artefact based offsets

摘要

The present disclosure concerns machine tools and more specifically compensation of variations which may occur within a multi-axis machine tool during a cutting process. An example embodiment includes a method of machining a workpiece using a machine tool comprising a machining head and a workpiece holder moveable relative to each another the method comprising: performing a first machining operation on a workpiece mounted to the workpiece holder according to a first programmed series of movements of the machining head relative to the workpiece holder, the first machining operation having a first maximum machining tolerance; performing a second machining operation on the workpiece according to a second programmed series of movements of the machining head relative to the workpiece holder, the second machining operation having a second maximum machining tolerance; performing a measurement operation to determine a position of an artefact on the machine tool; calculating an offset relative to a corresponding previously stored position of the artefact; and applying the offset to the second programmed series of movements prior to performing the second machining operation, wherein the second maximum machining tolerance is smaller than the first maximum machining tolerance.