An advanced STEP-NC controller for intelligent machining processes

Major improvements in high speed machining technologies are not followed by suitable evolutions of the programming standard ISO 6983, also called G-code. New STEP-NC standard aims at performing high level intelligent NC programming adapted to modern machining issues. The integration of manufacturing level in the numerical chain CAD–CAM–Simulation–CNC allows the implementation of a unique file gathering of all the needed information of a part that is directly machined without post-processing. In this paper, the authors show the new possibilities in terms of the following criteria: integrating simulation and optimization of the machining parameters, providing feedback to CNC controller, allowing modifications of the geometry and machining parameters on the CNC, computing new algorithms for tool-paths generation, adaptation to machine structure and characteristics, etc. A STEP-NC interface has been developed for CNC machine tools. It enables parts machining from a STEP-NC file and integrates several new possibilities and opens the way of intelligent high level programming including the machine model and an adaptation to machining real conditions.     

STEP-NC enabled on-line inspection in support of closed-loop machining

 The object-oriented STEP-NC data model provides a seamless and integrated programming interface for on-machine (or also known as on-line or in-line) inspections as well as interoperable manufacturing. This paper proposes a STEP-NC data model for on-line inspections. A framework of STEP-NC enabled closed-loop machining is also presented. The aim is to achieve a fully closed computer-aided design, process planning, machining and inspection chain. A new version of STEP-NC Interpreter has been developed to implement the proposed framework. A case study is included to demonstrate the implementation.     

Realization of STEP-NC enabled machining

A STEP-compliant CNC machine tool that demonstrated a G-code free machining scenario is presented. The aim of this research is to showcase the advantages of, and evaluate, STEP-NC—a new NC data model—by implementing it in a legacy CNC system. The work consists of two parts: retrofitting an existing CNC machine and the development of a STEP-compliant NC Converter called STEPcNC. The CompuCam's motion control system is used for retrofitting the machine, which is programmable using its own motion control language—6K Motion Control language and capable of interfacing with other CAPP/CAM programs through languages such as Visual Basic, Visual C++ and Delphi. STEPcNC can understand and process STEP-NC codes, and interface with the CNC controller through a Human Machine Interface. It makes use of STEP-NC information such as “Workplan”, “Workingstep”, machining strategy, machining features and cutting tools that is present in a STEP-NC file. Hence, the system is truly feature-based. The Application Interpreted Model of STEP-NC has been used.     

A multi-regional computation scheme in an AR-assisted in situ CNC simulation environment

Computer numerical control (CNC) simulation systems based on 3D graphics have been well researched and developed for NC tool path verification and optimization. Although widely used in the manufacturing industries, these CNC simulation systems are usually software-centric rather than machine tool-centric. The user has to adjust himself from the 3D graphic environment to the real machining environment. Augmented reality (AR) is a technology that supplements a real world with virtual information, where virtual information is augmented on to real objects. This paper builds on previous works of integrating the AR technology with a CNC machining environment using tracking and registration methodologies, with an emphasis on in situ simulation. Specifically configured for a 3-axis CNC machine, a multi-regional computation scheme is proposed to render a cutting simulation between a real cutter and a virtual workpiece, which can be conducted in situ to provide the machinist with a familiar and comprehensive environment. A hybrid tracking method and an NC code-adaptive cutter registration method are proposed and validated with experimental results. The experiments conducted show that this in situ simulation system can enhance the operator’s understanding and inspection of the machining process as the simulations are performed on real machines. The potential application of the proposed system is in training and machining simulation before performing actual machining operations.     

A novel methodology for cross-technology interoperability in CNC machining

In CNC part programmes, the lack of standardisation for representing part geometry and semantics of manufacturing operations leads to the necessity for existence of a unique part programme for each machine. Generating multiple programmes for producing the same part is not a value adding activity and is very time consuming. This wasteful activity can be eliminated if users are given the ability to write an NC program for a specific machine and robustly convert the program to syntax suitable for another CNC machine with a different structure. This, cross-technology interoperability, would enable for parts manufactured on old CNC machines using legacy code to be manufactured on new CNC machines by automatically converting the programmes. Every NC programme is written based on various categories of information such as: cutting tool specifications, process planning knowledge and machine tool information. This paper presents an approach for cross-technology interoperability by refining high-level process information (i.e., geometric features on the part and embedded manufacturing resource data) from NC programmes. These refined items of information stored in compliance with the ISO14649 (STEP-NC) standard may then be combined with new manufacturing resource information to generate NC code in a format that is compatible with machines based on different technologies. The authors provide a framework for this process of identification, semantic interpretation and re-integration of information. The focus of this paper is on asymmetric rotational components as the initial application area. To demonstrate the proposed cross-technology interoperability approach, a C-axis CNC turn–mill machine and a 4 axis CNC machining centre have been used with a simple test component.     

Strategic advantages of interoperability for global manufacturing using CNC technology

In the domain of manufacturing, computer numerically controllers (CNC) technology is a major contributor to the production capacity of the enterprises. The advances in CNC technology coupled with enhancements in computing systems have provided the basis to re-examine the way in which computer-aided systems (CAx) can be used to enable global manufacturing. Interoperability of the various components of the CAx chain is therefore a major prerequisite for manufacturing enterprises for becoming strategically agile and consequently globally competitive. Being interoperable, resources can be utilized interchangeably in a plug-and-produce manner. Over the last 8 years the eminence of a STEP standard for machining entitled STEP-NC (numerical control) has become a well-known vehicle for research to improve the level of information availability at the CNC machine tool. In this paper, the authors introduce the background to the evolution of CNC manufacturing over the last 50 years and the current standards available for programming. A review of the literature in interoperable CNC manufacturing is then provided relating to milling, turn–mill and other NC processes. The major part of the paper provides a strategic view of how interoperability can be implemented across the CAx chain with a range of standards used to regulate the flow of information. Finally, the paper outlines the advantages and major issues for future developments in interoperability, identifying future key requirements and limiting factors.     

面向STEP-NC的数据处理与仿真平台研发

介绍了STEP-NC数据模型的基本特点，分析了数控程序中的信息类型，研究了从STEP-NC文件中直接提取制造信息的基本方法，建立了基于特征的数控加工几何仿真模型，并讨论了相应的实现方法和技术。最后在ST-Developer环境下开发了一个基本的STEP-NC支持平台，其基本功能包括STEP-NC文件的翻译、制造信息的提取、组织和图形化显示等，并能以工步为单位进行仿真。     

CAXA在数控技术中的编程理论

本文通过阐述CAXA在数控技术中的编程理论,详细说明了用CAXA制造工程师实现数控加工的过程,并论述了数字化制造所特有的优越性,并为数控技术中的CAXA只要工程师在数字化制造过程提供了理论依据。     

Advanced CNC system with in-process feed-rate optimisation

Tight quality requirements and stringent customer demands are the main thrust behind the development of new generation machine tool controllers that are more universal, adaptable and interoperable. The development of some international standards such as STEP and STEP-NC presents a vision for intelligent CNC machining. Implementation of STEP-NC enabled Machine Condition Monitoring (MCM) is presented in this paper. The system allows optimisation during machining in order to shorten machining time and increase product quality. In the system, an optiSTEP-NC, an AECopt controller and a Knowledge-Based Evaluation (KBE) module have been developed. The aim of the optiSTEP-NC system is to perform initial feed-rate optimisation based on STEP-NC data to assist process planners in assigning appropriate machining parameters. AECopt acts as a connector between the process planner and machining environment with the intention to provide adaptive and automatic in-process machining optimisation. KBE based-MTConnect is responsible for obtaining machining know-how. Optimisation is performed before, during or after machining operations, based on the data collected and monitored such as machining vibration, acceleration and jerk, cutting power and feed-rate.     

Towards High-Fidelity Machining Simulation

The main purpose of any machining simulation system is to reveal or mimic the real machining process as accurately as possible. Current simulation systems often use G-code or CL data as input that has inherent drawbacks such as vendor-specific nature, incomplete data, irreversible data conversions and lack of accuracy. These limitations hinder the development of a truthful simulation system. Hence, there is a need for higher-level input data that can assist with accurate simulation for machining processes. In addition, there is also a need to take into account of true behaviour and real-time data of a machine tool. The paper presents a High-Fidelity Machining Simulation solution for more accurate results. STEP-NC is used as the input data as it provides a more complete data model for machining simulations. The status-quo of the machine tool is captured by means of sensors to provide true data values for machining simulation purposes. The outcome of the research provides a smart and better informed simulation environment. The paper reviewed some of the current simulation approaches, highlighted the current simulation problems, discussed input data sources for smart machining simulation and introduced the high-fidelity simulation system architecture.     

整体构件数控电解加工CAD/CAM平台关键技术

针对整体构件数控电解加工中存在的问题,利用数据库、有限元、数控等技术建立了以工程数据库为集成方式的整体构件数控电解加工CAD/CAM平台;解决了该平台中建模、加工过程数值模拟、数控运动仿真、数控加工编程、参数优化等关键技术;并将该平台用于整体叶轮、压气机静子等复杂零件的电解加工中.应用结果表明,采用文中的平台缩短了整体构件的试制周期,提高了电解加工试验的成功率.     

A STEP-compliant process planning system for CNC turning operations

Over the last 50 years, there have been many significant enhancements in computer aided systems which have influenced the CNC technology. One area that can be considered as a bottleneck to these CNC enhancements, and in particular to interoperability in CNC manufacturing is G&M part programming (ISO 6983). To overcome this bottleneck, the new standard ISO 14649, known as STEP-NC, is being developed to provide detailed information on component design, process planning and machining strategies to manufacture parts for the next generation of intelligent CNCs. This standard forms the basis of a new paradigm shift in the CNC domain to support digital modelling of CNC manufacturing resources. The research in this paper aims to identify major issues and develop new software tools to demonstrate the feasibility of interoperable CNC manufacturing based on STEP-NC. Besides the literature review on recent research and development on STEP-NC, this paper proposes a Process Planning System (PPS) with surface roughness chosen as the process planning objective. PPS consists of five modules: program reader, process planner, STEP-NC CAD viewer, STEP-NC CAM viewer and program writer. The reader is responsible for interpreting the geometry and the manufacturing data from a STEP-NC text file into a stored data list. The process planner uses this data list and enables users to evaluate surface roughness based on a mathematical model. Through the STEP-NC CAD viewer, the part geometry can be shown and via the STEP-NC CAM viewer the toolpath can be verified. Finally, the writer converts the stored STEP-NC data of the system into an updated STEP-NC file. An example case study component is used to demonstrate the PPS and show the interfacing of the STEP-NC data.     

STEP-NC compliant process planning as an enabler for adaptive global manufacturing

Manufacturing firms are seeking more efficient methods of CNC manufacture. ISO14649 informally known as STEP-NC has been proposed as a high-level hierarchical manufacturing information model as a replacement for the low-level machining instructions of ISO6983 and RS274D. In this paper, the applicability of STEP-NC as an enabler for creating an adaptive global manufacturing system is examined. The overall framework of the system is presented followed by an outline of its information requirements. Suitability of STEP-NC to support each requirement is then studied with the necessary additions highlighted. Finally, a test component is used in conjunction with a prototype of the advanced global manufacturing system to demonstrate the applicability of the STEP-NC standard to support manufacturing information in such a system.     

环切区域加工分步式刀具轨迹生成算法研究

与传统的集中式刀具轨迹计算方法不同,基于ＮＣ特征单元,把刀具轨迹计算分为两步完成,以此改善数控加工系统的可集成性,可视性和可控性,给出了抽象ＮＣ特征单元及适合２．５轴区域加工的环切特征单元的定义,提出了通过链接划分法生成环切特征单元,以及通过环切特征单元计算刀具轨迹的算法。     

Standard process monitoring and traceability programming in collaborative CAD/CAM/CNC manufacturing scenarios

The paper focuses on collaborative STEP-based CAD/CAM/CNC supply chains to program and automate machining process data monitoring and traceability activities. A traceability interface (traceability nc_functions) is defined for the new CNC programming standard ISO STEP-NC. CAM systems will be able to program monitoring and data access activities by inserting traceability nc_function calls in CNC programs. On the shop floor, controllers will automatically interpret these nc_functions to access process data while machining and will relate data records with the corresponding machining operations in a STEP-NC part program. With both types of information—process data and standard machining program (STEP-NC part program)—spread and technologically heterogeneous engineering systems will have full knowledge about what has happened in production. Traceability data access automation will assure data reliability. The paper describes a traceability scenario where standards such as MTConnect and ISA-95 support, rather than interfere with, the STEP-NC traceability proposal.     

基于STEP-NC的CNC系统中NURBS插补技术研究

STEP-NC是一个用来实现CAD/CAM与CNC系统间数据交换的接口标准,基于STEP-NC的CNC系统是未来数控技术发展方向之一,该系统不但具有直线和圆弧插补功能,而且还具有样条曲线插补功能。为此设计了一个统一的基于NURBS样条曲线插补的通用插补器,并开发了一种基于等弧长的插补技术和插补算法。最后通过仿真和实例加工验证了该算法的有效性和可靠性。     

Modelling and implementing circular sawblade stone cutting processes in STEP-NC

The paper presents a STEP-NC compliant implementation of circular sawblade stone cutting machining processes. Although some stone machining processes has been already covered in the STEP-NC research and standardization initiatives (as for instance stone machining through stone milling machines), there have not been yet, however, any detailed model proposal to cover circular sawblade stone cutting operations. Sawblade cutting technology for stone parts have several specific parameters with no clear equivalent technologies as defined in milling, turning, etc. The paper reviews main characteristics of the circular sawblade stone cutting machining operations, and proposes a STEP-NC extended model based on the selection and definition of new features and on the modelling of these stone cutting operations. The resulting model is the base for the development of the STEP-NC stone cutting CAM and CNC machine. The machine architecture is designed to be able to react to changes in the machining conditions, very common in this technology. The system is based on the definition of features to be communicated to the controller. The controller has the objective of machining the features, and it is able to re planning, on real time, the work to get them despite changing conditions in the stone or in the disc.     

Striving for a total integration of CAD, CAPP, CAM and CNC

Over the last 50 years, conventional programming of the numerical controlled (NC) machine tools has been based on a data model stipulated by ISO 6983, or otherwise known as G-codes. It was designed to sequentially pass instructions to the controls of machine tools with little, if any, intelligence. It has been realized that this standard has led to serious impediments for the fulfilment of total CAD/CAM integration. The forthcoming ISO 14649 defines a new interface for exchange of information between CAD/CAM systems and NC machine tools. ISO 14649 is strictly harmonized with ISO 10303 (STEP), hence the name STEP-NC meaning an extended STEP for numerical control. There has been substantial amount of research being carried out concerning STEP-NC, in particular EU and USA; its benefits and potentials are revealing and appealing. The manufacturing industry may have to embrace itself with a revolutionary change even more dramatic than that of introduction of numerical control about half a century ago.     

ISO 14649-based nonlinear process planning implementation for complex machining

Increasing attention is being paid to complete machining, i.e., machining of the whole part in a single machine tool, in the metal working industry. For this purpose, complex machine tools equipped with machining components, such as multiple spindles and turrets have been developed by leading machine tool builders. The efficiency of complex machine tools is largely dependent on how the machining components are utilized. The main thrust of this paper is twofold: (1) Proposition of a nonlinear process planning based on the STEP-NC (STEP-compliant data interface for numerical controls) paradigm whose data model is formalized as ISO 14649, and (2) Development of an optimal solution algorithm for process planning for complex machining. The developed algorithm is based on the branch-and-bound approach and heuristics derived from engineering insights. The developed process planning method and optimization algorithm were implemented and tested via the TurnSTEP system developed by our research team. Through the experiments, we are convinced that the new process planning and algorithm can be used as a fundamental means for implementing the third type of STEP-NC [Suh S. TurnSTEP: Tools to create CNC turning programs. In: White paper presented on STEP Implementers’ Forum ISO TC184/SC4 Meeting. 2004], i.e., an Intelligent and Autonomous STEP-NC system for the CAD-CAM-CNC chain supporting e-Manufacturing.     

数控加工工装物流自控系统的设计与实现

数控加工技术以其加工过程人工干预少、加工效率高、产品质量稳定等优点在现代航空制造业中得到了广泛应用。因航空产品更新换代快、新研发项目多等因素的影响,传统的单纯人工物流方式耗时大、速度慢、占据空间大等缺点凸显。构建该物流自动控制系统的主要目的在于对数控加工过程中的工装物流环节进行系统、科学管理,自动地实现存取、调配,进一步提高数控加工的生产效率。