Development of an experimental five-axis cncsystem using stepper motors

Abstract

This paper presents an experimental five-axis CNC milling machine designed for the research, development, and testing of multi-axis CNC systems. NEMA 17 stepper motors were used as the drive system due to their simple implementation, low cost, and sufficient positioning accuracy for the development and testing of multiaxis CNC systems. The proposed system is not intended for demanding industrial operating conditions, but rather for creating a functional platform that enables the investigation of multi-axis motion control, axis synchronization, and the evaluation of different control strategies and toolpath generation methods. Special attention is given to the potential application of this concept in education, laboratory research, and the development of future CNC systems with larger dimensions and higher power capacities. The developed system also enables the analysis of fundamental kinematic and control parameters important for improving multi-axis machining and optimizing CNC system performance. The proposed model provides a better understanding of the operation of five-axis CNC machines, as well as practical verification of design and control solutions before their implementation in more complex industrial systems.