This research is intended to evaluate, analyze and design a completely novel approach to configuring Computer Numeric Control (CNC) metal-cutting machine tools. Traditional CNC machines are primarily configured as a set of mutually perpendicular linear axes and cutting tool paths are generated by the interpolation of these linear axes, to cut the variety of shapes hat have to be manufactured. In this approach the machine tool consists of only rotary axes and all the variety of tool paths that need to be generated will result from their interpolation. The benefits of configuring the machine in this manner are well established but complex and significant control issues need to be evaluated and addressed in order to establish the feasibility of this approach. The success of this program, which is being jointly funded by a quasi-industry organization, could lead to minor revolution in the way conventional machine tools are configured and potentially provide the domestic industry an opportunity to exploit.
