Abstract: A relative positioning machine has a first panel for supporting a spindle thereon, a second panel for supporting a workpiece, first through fourth support mechanisms by which the first and second panels are tiltably supported for angular movement about an X1 axis, an X2 axis, a Y1 axis, and a Y2 axis, and first through fourth actuator mechanisms for individually tilting the first and second panels about the X1 axis, the X2 axis, the Y1 axis, and the Y2 axis. The spindle 11 and hence a machining unit such as a drill bit mounted thereon, and the workpiece can quickly and easily be positioned relatively to each other for allowing the machining tool to machine the workpiece at any of various areas at various angles on the workpiece. The relative positioning machine is relatively small in size and allows the workpiece to be machined quickly by the machining tool.

Abstract: Ball screws are moved axially to move a spindle unit in directions X, Y to position a cutter mounted on the spindle unit. Support arm assemblies which support the spindle unit are also moved. Then, a slide table which supports the support arm assemblies is moved in a direction Z to cause the cutter to machine a workpiece.