Whether in ISO or its own dedicated programming terms, a machine control should make the operator's job easier, not harder. Today's sophisticated CNC machine tool should provide many options, regardless of the protocol. Programming should be a fast and relatively easy process that puts the machine tool into production, whether on a prototype, short run or full production run.
For operators who have G-code and M-code background, the higher-level CNC offered today can accommodate that method, plus enhance it with more advanced geometric and block function information. Operators should always be able to call up the most complex machine sequences and intelligent CNC functions with easy to read plain language commands.
A solid program guide on the CNC should represent an ideal combination of CNC programming language with the parameterization of all technology cycles. With the touch of a button, a programmer should be able to enter the desired parameters and see the machining sequence onscreen immediately.
Typically, a CNC should be able to display in steps all the standard drilling, centering, grooving, pocket milling and other functions. Through automatic linking of these machining sequences, operators only need to enter the position pattern once. Then, the CNC derives the optimal machining sequence to save the most time, based on this linking. This procedure also helps when a restart is needed after an interrupted cycle. Just put the cursor on the position pattern, enter the next step in the sequence or the position number, depending on the language used, and the machine will resume the cycle.
For cycle display, all geometric elements in the CNC program can be displayed with dynamic broken-line graphics. As the program proceeds, these graphics automatically adapt to the relevant geometric input. Even when elements are altered or added, they can be displayed quickly onscreen without simulation, although that option may be chosen as a safeguard.
The combination of ISO language with high-level CNC commands is intended to provide both programmer and operator greater flexibility and shorter machining times. And, since other CNC programs sometimes need to be run on a machine with a different control, the more advanced CNC has an ISO dialect interpreter to translate several languages.
Lastly, look for a CNC editor that is text-based and includes a find-and-replace function that enables quickly generated, customized CNC programs using canned technology cycles and specific input together. If, for example, the operator is programming a counter-spindle or sub-spindle on a 5-axis machine for sloping surfaces, the machining plane should be able to be rotated in a desired way using an integrated swivel cycle, without the need for a CAD system alteration. The CNC should have assorted measuring cycles built-in to ensure the monitoring of workpiece accuracy.
The CNC on the machine should understand any language and allow the fastest set-ups possible.
Authored by Randy Pearson, Sales Support Manager, Siemens
For more information contact:
John Meyer
Siemens Industry, Inc.
Drive Technologies - Motion Control
390 Kent Avenue
Elk Grove Village, IL 60007
847-640-1595
siemensmtbumarcom.sea@siemens.com
www.usa.siemens.com/cnc