Open-architecture CNC Systems (Contd):
Open-architecture CNC (Computer Numerical Control) systems represent the next generation of computerized technologies used in machine tool controllers. Having the option to integrate a variety of third-party hardware and software solutions has enabled CNC machine tools to become much more capable of performing complex tasks. These new open-architecture solutions have opened the door to customizing CNC controllers and machines to meet specific customer requirements, further enabling manufacturers to achieve greater levels of process efficiency.
Open-architecture CNC solutions employ processors built around 32-bit or 64-bit computing platforms and can use a variety of specialized software solutions to manage the control operations of the CNC system. These systems are typically equipped with Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) and Human Machine Interfaces (HMIs) for communication reasons and for better diagnostic capabilities.
Using an open-architecture-based solution, machine tool systems can be customized to meet particular machine specs, such as those that require frequent changes in the type of tools used. These moves can help automation systems become more flexible and better-suited to a variety of applications. Open-architecture CNC controllers may be programmed via special programming languages, in-machine programming language macros, or graphical user interfaces.
Open-architecture CNC systems are equipped with a wide-variety of features and sensors—including vision systems, touch screens, and robotics—enabling machines to better handle prototyping and automated production tasks. When synchronizing the machine tool’s motions with the software’s instructions, open-architecture CNCs provide higher precision, smoother operation, more accurate results, and overall improved equipment performance.
Just as the development of CNC technology has enabled industrial automation to become more reliable, the implementation of open-architecture CNCs is set to take automation to even greater heights. Being able to reduce maintenance and engage precision processes, with process control systems and data feeds, will improve yields and efficiency. Open-architecture CNCs offer users the capability of installing a variety of software and hardware which are optimized to meet the needs of the specific industrial application.
Lastly, open-architecture CNC systems also benefit manufacturers in terms of productivity and cost-savings. Installation of open-architecture CNCs empowers manufacturers to easily monitor, control, and customize operations. By incorporating powerful advanced functions, CNC automation can achieve higher levels of productivity while improving accuracy and repeatability at the same time. In the future, it will be possible to embed G code and other processing commands into the code of a CNC system, enabling it to directly access live data from other systems, as well as from other devices and systems with wireless connections. As open-architecture CNCs continue to prove their value for manufacturers and industrial automation, it is certain that these systems will remain a leading technology for many years to come.
