T HE F UTURE OF CNC P ROGRAMMING

The ultimate goal of any manufacturing is to increase productivity by improving efficiency, minimizing wasted and idle time and to cut lead times, while maintaining accuracy. Modern technology enables these goals to become reality.

Figure 34 Machine Maintenance Window Courtesy MAZAK Corp.

The PC has revolutionized our society and manufacturing has been a benefactor because of the direct effect on controlling CNC machines. Now PC’s are used to network machines together, in order to manage workloads. These networks also make it possible to communicate between machines and the office, to manage and download programs, to obtain machine status and operation reports in real time, and monitor other network locations. Machine monitoring includes automatic operation, machine stop and feed hold, set-up and alarm. Spindle load and spindle speed are recorded to provide reports and information on completed workpiece counts. Some machines utilize both a PC and CNC fused into one, providing bi-directional communication between the PC and CNC. This makes an intelligent CNCcontrol system. Intelligent CNC responds to questions, makes suggestions and provides detailed reports on machine operation and production status.

The most advanced RISC CPU (Reduced Instruction Set Computer, Central Processing Unit) technology is used to provide faster processing speeds which, in turn, help to achieve reduced set-up and cycle times.

Knowledge-based navigation functions allow the determination of optimum metal cutting conditions prior to actual cutting, dependant upon stored data. Based on the part program, tool data and workpiece material, the navigation functions suggest the optimum cutting conditions and shows where improvements in cycle time can be achieved through changes in spindle speed, feed rate and tools.

Advancements in the graphical cutting simulation allow the 3-dimensional solid part model to be displayed. This feature can be used to show part sections for checking inside diameters and deep holes, and, views can be rotated. These added capabilities aid in program verification of tool paths.

To keep machine utilization high, modern controls allow self-diagnostic functions for service and maintenance. Self-diagnostic menus quickly trouble shoot the cause of an alarm and suggest possible solutions for trouble-shooting. Alarm displays indicate when scheduled maintenance is required and on-line support is available.

As technological advancements continue, at an unbelievable pace, the manufacturing industry will undoubtedly benefit. Innovative new methods for CAD/CAM and Conversational programming of CNC machines will continue to emerge. For the machinist/ programmer, this means that the new methods and tools used for programming will require a life-long learning approach. This book has been intended to begin that learning process.

Figure 35 Machine Diagnostics Window

Courtesy MAZAK Corp.