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CNC Programming

Computer-assisted part programming involves both human and computer tasks. The human part programmer defines the part geometry and specifies the tool path using geometric elements and commands. The computer translates these instructions into machine code for numerically controlled machines. CAD/CAM systems automate some tasks like geometry definition and common machining cycles but still require the programmer to specify tool paths. Manual data input at the machine is best for simple parts in small shops without programming staff.

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395 views13 pages

CNC Programming

Computer-assisted part programming involves both human and computer tasks. The human part programmer defines the part geometry and specifies the tool path using geometric elements and commands. The computer translates these instructions into machine code for numerically controlled machines. CAD/CAM systems automate some tasks like geometry definition and common machining cycles but still require the programmer to specify tool paths. Manual data input at the machine is best for simple parts in small shops without programming staff.

Uploaded by

Qutayba Yaseen
Copyright
© Attribution Non-Commercial (BY-NC)
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Computer-Assisted Part Programming

Manual part programming is time-consuming, tedious, and subject to human errors for complex jobs Machining instructions are written in English-like statements that are translated by the computer into the low-level machine code of the MCU APT (Automatically Programmed Tool) The various tasks in computer-assisted part programming are divided between The human part programmer The computer

Computer-Assisted Part Programming

Sequence of activities in computer-assisted part programming

Part Programmer's Job


Two main tasks of the programmer: 1.Define the part geometry 2.Specify the tool path

Defining Part Geometry


Underlying assumption: no matter how complex the part geometry, it is composed of basic geometric elements and mathematically defined surfaces Geometry elements are sometimes defined only for use in specifying tool path Examples of part geometry definitions: P4 = POINT/35,90,0 L1 = LINE/P1,P2 C1 = CIRCLE/CENTER,P8,RADIUS,30

Specifying Tool Path and Operation Sequence


Tool path consists of a sequence of points or connected line and arc segments, using previously defined geometry elements Point-to-Point command: GOTO/P0 Continuous path command GOLFT/L2,TANTO,C1

Other Functions in Computer-Assisted Part Programming


Specifying cutting speeds and feed rates Designating cutter size (for tool offset calculations) Specifying tolerances in circular interpolation Naming the program Identifying the machine tool

Cutter Offset
Cutter path must be offset from actual part outline by a distance equal to the cutter radius

Computer Tasks in Computer-Assisted Part Programming


APT shares many similarities with other computer programming languages such as FORTRAN. A generalpurpose computer language takes source text and converts the statements to instructions that can be processed internally by a computer. APT converts source statements into low level programs for driving numerically-controlled machine tools.

NC Part Programming Using CAD/ CAM


Geometry definition If the CAD/CAM system was used to define the original part geometry, no need to recreate that geometry as in APT Automatic labeling of geometry elements If the CAD part data are not available, geometry must be created, as in APT, but user gets immediate visual feedback about the created geometry

Tool Path Generation Using CAD/ CAM


Basic approach: enter the commands one by one (similar to APT) CAD/CAM system provides immediate graphical verification of the command Automatic software modules for common machining cycles Profile milling Pocket milling Drilling bolt circles

Examples of Machining Cycles in Automated NC Programming Modules


Pocket milling

Contour turning

Examples of Machining Cycles in Automated NC Programming Modules


Facing and shoulder facing

Threading (external)

Manual Data Input


Machine operator does part programming at machine Operator enters program by responding to prompts and questions by system Monitor with graphics verifies tool path Usually for relatively simple parts Ideal for small shop that cannot afford a part programming staff To minimize changeover time, system should allow programming of next job while current job is running

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