Zone: CNC & Machine Controls

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.

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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.

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Most Recent Content in this Zone:

Automated Messaging Via CNC
1/20/2010 Production Machining: New technology calls with alerts when performing light's out operations.
Device Rejuvenates Legacy Control System
12/10/2009 Modern Machine Shop: An old but still very usable vertical turning center became easier to operate, and actually realized more cutting time, thanks to a control retrofit that cost only hundreds of dollars.
Tool Certainty
11/30/2009 Modern Machine Shop: For GKN Aerospace to overcome tool-related variations on its largest milling machines, it had to confront error sources that go unnoticed in many shops.
Automating Machine Monitoring And Data Collection
10/13/2009 Modern Machine Shop: This automated machine data collection software automatically collects a wealth of information specific to machining processes and presents it in an intuitive format so users can quickly analyze the data and implement changes.
Probing for Part Inspection and Crash Avoidance
10/1/2009 Modern Machine Shop: A reader uses “Ask an Expert” to explore various potential uses of the machining center’s probe.

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Overview Of:
CNC & Machine Controls

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.