Coordinate Systems on Numerically Controlled Machines
Numerically Controlled (NC) machines are sophisticated machines used in the manufacture of parts, equipped with the ability to move in precise and accurate ways, controlling the position and movement of cutting tools. Most NC machines contain a coordinate system which acts as a reference system when the NC machine is tasked with producing parts. While the exact coordinate system used on any NC machine will vary, there are four standard coordinate systems used on these machines.
Coordinate System One: Cartesian Coordinates
The first coordinate system on NC machines is the Cartesian Coordinate system. This system uses two perpendicular lines (the x- and y-axis)to define a precise location on the cutting surface of the machine. The x- and y-axis together form the Cartesian plane, allowing for precise positioning of the machine.
The Cartesian Coordinate system is widely used in NC machines due to its simple functionality and easy of use. Along each plane, linear guides can be added to stability the machines movement and increase accuracy.
Coordinate System Two: Polar Coordinates
The second coordinate system in NC machines is the Polar Coordinate system. Unlike the Cartesian Coordinates system, the Polar Coordinate system uses two separate components to form a position: the distance from the origin, and the angle from the origin.
The Polar Coordinate system is not as commonly used as Cartesian coordinates, but it is still seen in many NC machines. This coordinate system is useful for quickly describing the location of objects moving in a circular pattern, as this system allows for both radial and angular measurements.
Coordinate System Three: Cylindrical Coordinate System
The third coordinate system used on NC machines is the Cylindrical Coordinate system. This system includes three components: radial distance from the origin, angular orientation, and height. The Cylindrical Coordinate system is used in NC machines to accurately describe the three dimensional movement of cutting tools in a precise manner.
The Cylindrical Coordinate system is also useful for quick and easy conversion between Cartesian and Polar Coordinates.
Coordinate System Four: Spherical Coordinates
The fourth, and final coordinate system used on NC machines is the Spherical Coordinates system. The Spherical Coordinate system uses three components to form a position: angular orientation along the x-axis, angular orientation along the y-axis, and distance from the origin.
The Spherical Coordinate system is most often used to map out a three dimensional space such as the curved surface of a sphere, or the interior of a cylinder, allowing for exact identification of points in 3D space.
Conclusion
Numerically Controlled machines use four unique coordinate systems to map and identify points on their cutting surfaces. The Cartesian Coordinate system is the most common, and is used for quick and precise identification of linear locations. The Polar Coordinate system is not as common, but can accurately describe circular movement. The Cylindrical Coordinate system is used for three dimensional movements, as it is able to accurately measure height, as well as radial and angular measurements. Finally, the Spherical Coordinate system is used to accurately identify points on curved surfaces and in three dimensional spaces.
