Product category:
CAM, CNC and production management software
News Release from: GE Fanuc Intelligent Platforms UK | Subject: 3D Interference Check function
Edited by the Engineeringtalk Editorial
Team on 16 February 2007
Software avoids CNC collisions
GE Fanuc's 3D Interference Check function for its standard 30i/31i/31i series CNC controls helps to avoid machine collisions.
Machine tools such as turning and milling centres or five-axis machines are renowned for their high level of efficiency However, machine operators are finding it increasingly difficult to cope with the speed and complexity of machining processes
This article was originally published on Engineeringtalk on 23 Jul 2008 at 8.00am (UK)
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Stopping the machine manually in the event of an imminent collision is virtually impossible.
GE Fanuc has therefore developed the 3D Interference Check function for its standard 30i/31i/31i series CNC controls, which helps to avoid machine collisions.
The machine manufacturer or the machine operator can install this software on standard CNC controls to define any areas that pose a risk of collision (such as the machine head, workpiece, base and clamping fixtures) using geometric models.
These models effectively represent a forbidden zone.
When calculating the axis movements, the CNC control takes into account spatial information together with current tool data and reliably avoids potential collisions.
The machine stops if a defined model blocks the axis path during the final interpolation stage.
The 3D Interference Check function for Open 300i/310i/320i CNC controls fitted with an additional PC is similar.
Here the CNC informs the PC of the axis positions before the axes start to move.
A 3D animation sequence on the PC establishes potential overlaps between the defined objects and signals the CNC to stop all axis movements before an impending collision takes place.
A high-speed bus between the CNC and PC is a basic requirement here.
The operator can perform a check before the actual machining process begins, even prior to operation, because collision monitoring deals exclusively with calculations and not servo drives.
If the machine stops during the milling process because a collision risk has been detected in advance, machine operators can retract the relevant axes if active system monitoring is to continue.
The collision is avoided, even if the operator inadvertently presses the wrong button. Request a free brochure from GE Fanuc Intelligent Platforms UK ...
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