Graphic Proving

The part program before actually doing the machining can be simulated on the screen of the MCU to verify the accuracy of the geometry generated. This verification normally has a number of options such as the actual tool path shown in various 2D- view planes or with 3D such as isometric or axonometric projections. However, this type of simulation though fast will not give the real feel of the actual material removal process. Hence most modern controls provide a solid simulation process in which the blank and the tool are actually shown in 3D shaded image. As the tool moves through the work material, the material is actually removed as a solid subtraction between the work volume and the swept volume of the tool in contact with the workpiece. The layer removed is shown with a different colour to give a realistic feel of the material removal process. This process will be actually able to simulate the uncut material at the corners because of the tool radius, burr formation, etc. more realistically. Some controls can also incorporate the surface finish generation process in terms of the feeds and speeds used, so that the operator can get a feel of the final surface finish to be obtained on the component.

Conversational Part Programming

Many of the controllers are available with some form of conversational part programming facility built in. This can be in many forms. FAPT-TURN was one of the first such system which uses a vector drawing technique for making the turning part contour in 2D on screen. Based on that the system automatically selects the tools, and generates completely the part program. Similar systems have become available in many of the systems.