Initial distribution optimization for multi-point location of large thin-walled components

To restrain the dynamic change of effective locators in the manufacturing process of large thin-walled components, a new “X-2-1” locating method is proposed to distribute the location/support points following machining region, with the goal to meet the requirements for the clamping force, positioning accuracy and maximum support capacity. This method can ensure reliable clamping in the machining process of workpieces, and control positioning error in different machining regions. Simulation and experiment show that the maximum positioning error is 0.2 mm, much better than that obtained when twenty location/support points are distributed evenly over the whole support area of a workpiece. The improvement suppresses the perturbations of clamping deformation to machining quality. Furthermore, the optimization result of initial distribution of location/support points provides a foundation for a further global optimization of multi-point location distribution of large thin-walled components so as to increase process system's stiffness, decrease machining distortion, and improve machining quality.