Zone: CNC & Machine Controls

OVERVIEW: The CNC (computer numerical control) system of a machine tool includes the control unit itself, as well as less visible parts of the motion-control system such as the servomotors, drives and axis positioning devices. These components are part of any CNC machine tool, but they might be bought separately and retrofitted later on older machines that are upgraded or refurbished. Also part of the control system are sensors that may allow the control to make certain real-time decisions during unattended or lightly attended machining processes. These can include probes for measuring the position of the part or machined features, as well as monitoring systems for detecting the presence of the tool or the force that is being exerted in the cut.

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NEW PRODUCTS

Multi-gate Non-Contact Interlock Switch System Designed for Gates, Doors, and Enclosures
Tapeswitch Corporation - 5/8/2013
CNC for Five-Axis, High-Speed Machining
FANUC FA America - 4/8/2013
Encoder Interface Box Increases Controls Compatibility
Heidenhain Corp. - 4/8/2013

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Featured Zone Content

September 2006 -

Move The Program Instead Of The Part

A complex five-axis part with hard-to-reach datums is machined in two setups instead of eight, thanks to a process that rewrites the tool paths to match the part's position....MORE

January 2009 -

Accuracy Gain From Linear Encoders

If the position of a machine tool’s axis is measured using a rotary encoder, then potentially the ballscrew is being asked to perform two contradictory functions. The ballscrew both drives the axis into position and indicates that position—because the ballscrew lies in between the encoder and the moving element of the machine. Control technology supplier Heidenhain calls this “semiclosed-loop” operation. ...MORE

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CAD, CAM and Related Software

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