Automated Position Control
Due to the growing demand to reduce costs in the manufacturing industry, automated positioning control systems are becoming increasingly popular with manufacturers. Positioning control is the automation of setting a precise position in a move or machining operation. Automated positioning control systems help to ensure accuracy and consistency during the manufacturing process, while reducing manual labour costs.
The most popular application of automated positioning control systems is CNC (computer numerical control) machining. CNC machining is a process in which precise control of movements of axes of machines, such as lathes and mills, is achieved by means of numerical codes input into the computers of the machines. The numerical codes are generated by CNC software, which allows for the precise control of the movements of the axes. This means that a part can be machined to a precise size and geometry without any manual intervention.
The use of automated positioning control systems helps manufacturers to reduce production costs by eliminating the need for manual labour in setting positions. It also reduces machine downtime, as the CNC software can be used to quickly and accurately set the positions. Additionally, CNC machining has the advantage of being able to produce more complex shapes than traditional manual machining.
Automated positioning control systems also help to reduce wear and tear on machines. By providing more precise control of movements, machines are less likely to encounter unexpected movements that can lead to damage. This also leads to longer machine life, as a machine is less likely to require frequent repair or replacement.
The increased precision of positioning control systems also helps to reduce waste. By controlling the exact position of materials, manufacturers can reduce the amount of time and resources needed to produce parts of the desired size and geometry. This can lead to cost savings in the form of reduced material and labour costs.
In addition to the benefits of automated positioning control systems, it is important to note that they require a significant commitment of capital and resources in order to keep them up-to-date. As technology advances, older systems may become obsolete, meaning that they need to be updated or replaced in order to maintain efficiency and accuracy.
The introduction of automated positioning control systems provides manufacturers with a number of advantages that can help to reduce costs, increase accuracy, and extend the life of their machines. As technology continues to advance, these systems will likely become even more commonplace in the manufacturing industry.
