Complete NC programs – all aspects automatically covered

Manufacturing in production machining has been under heavy pressure for some time. A critical parameter in this is the need of companies to utilize their highly automated machine centers as best as possible. Users who continuously and simultaneously manufacture different parts based on a pallet changer benefit from every improvement in automation. If they use an automated measurement solution, they can also manufacture during unattended late and night shifts without concerns and, as a result, can maximize utilization of their machines.

A goal in the manufacturing process is to have the machines or machine centers run unattended for as long as possible, and prevent reworking. The latter takes time, increases wear on the machine and increases material costs. The goal is to achieve high quality with the fewest possible correction iterations.
Automated measurement systems offer significant added value in this context. These solutions also provide integral quality checking in the ongoing machining process – independently from measuring cycles in the control. This yields complete NC programs with toolpaths for turning, milling and drilling, including measuring cycles, with which machining centers can run unattended. All movements of the measuring probes, tools and machines are realistically simulated and checked for collisions. The measurement solution also checks the intermediate manufacturing stages for the actual machining. If an error or a problem occurs, manufacturing on the affected pallet is stopped, while the remaining applications continue undisturbed.
For example, ruled geometries can be measured, checked and corrected in the manufacturing process, and electrodes can also be automatically checked. In both cases, integral quality checking increases the degree of automation, reducing quality iterations and overall machining time.

Most manufacturing companies are now confronted by significant personnel bottlenecks. The software reduces the burden on the team and provides additional added value. The use of automated modules such as a measurement solution can also enable more flexible team placement in the manufacturing process. For example, it helps to significantly reduce the number of employees necessary in evenings and on weekends. In turn, the customer sees that using a measurement solution results in a consistently high level of safety and quality in the manufacturing process. It ensures that deadlines are met and is an especially appropriate tool for contract manufacturers.