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What is CNC Controls?
This article covers the types of CNC machine control software available. CNC machining is the computer-controlled process of forming metal into fabricated components. CNC actually stands for “computer numerical control” and is aptly named—the computer directs the cutting tool based on a series of numeric codes that can be altered using computer software.
CNC machining changed the metal fabrication industry by enabling easier production of 3-D structures and reducing the level of human involvement in metal forming. Since the introduction of CNC machining, improvements in quality and consistency have increased.
Types of CNC Machine Control Software
When multiple CNC machines manufacture a part that requires multiple operations, designers refer to that group of machines as a “cell.” Today, CNC machines are typically automatons, as they have the ability to perform without human assistance. The software packages that control these CNC machines are CAM (Computer-aided Manufacturing) programs.
CNC Machining Software Origins
NC (Numerically Controlled) machining preceded CNC machining—these earlier machines featured unalterable, fixed hard-wired operating parameters. NC machines were controlled by “G-Codes,” which are punched-tape applications fed into the machine’s computer.
CAM Software
Specific files created by CAM software control today’s CNC machines. CAM software reduces production time by eliminating the need to produce a drafted paper drawing of the desired manufactured component.
With CAM software controlling the CNC machine, the machine is capable of producing a high volume of parts without human assistance. CNC machines controlled by CAM software also feature lasers capable of detecting even slight imperfections in the finalized product. When the laser detects a problem, the computer automatically phones the operator’s cell phone and notifies him of the situation.
CAD Software
CAD (Computer-Aided Design) software is the program used to design the product that the CAM software program will eventually produce. Most of today’s CAD programs feature 2D vector base drafting systems or 3D solid and surface modelers.
CAD software provides designers with the freedom to create their product on the computer screen and save it for later editing and printing, which cuts down on design and production time. Other capabilities of CAD software include:
3D parametric feature-based modeling
Solid modeling
Freeform surface modelling
Reuse of design components
Wireframe geometry creation
Automated design of assemblies
Calculation of mass properties of assemblies and parts
Aid visualization with shading and rotating
Bi-directional parametric association
Cable routing
Electrical component packaging
Inclusion of programming code in a model to relate and control the desired attributes of the model
Programmable design optimization
Sophisticated visual analysis routines
Verification of designs against design rules and specifications
Automatic generation of standard design components
Simulation of designs without building a physical prototype
Maintenance of libraries of parts and assemblies
Output of design data directly to manufacturing facilities
Output directly to a Rapid Prototyping or Rapid Manufacture Machine for industrial prototypes
CAE Software
CAE (Computer-Aided Engineering) tools assist engineers in the analysis, design, simulation, planning, manufacture, diagnosis, and repair of machining activities. CAE tools manage tasks in three phases: Pre-Processing, Analysis and Post-Processing. The areas addressed by CAE applications include:
Stress analysis on components and assemblies using Finite Element Analysis
Thermal and fluid flow analysis
Kinematics
Mechanical event simulation (MES)
Analysis for process simulation for operations such as casting, die press forming and molding
Optimization of the process or product
CAD/CAE/CAM Software
Some software companies have merged all three aspects of CNC controlling applications into one, manageable software package, labeled CAD/CAE/CAM. These software programs handle the entire fabrication process: the original design created in CAD, the analysis performed by the CAE, and the final manufacturing as controlled by CAM software.
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