Production system networks all work steps

Heidenhain has developed a Connected Machining system of production in which all work steps, from the design to the deliverable component, are networked via the company’s TNC 640 control. It can access all order-related information in a company network, enabling efficient exchange of data, the company reports.

The company’s premise is that a workpiece is produced on a machine tool, so all information should be consolidated there and data on the status and quality of a workpiece must flow back into the production IT system. The machinist, who is responsible for the quality of components and for staying on schedule, has access to this data.

The operator scans a code on each toolholder during loading, so the control knows which cutters are available. The control’s Remote Desktop Manager software allows direct access to the CAM system, and the CAM software interrogates the tool database during program creation.

In the Batch Process Manager, the operator schedules execution of the production job on the machine. NC programs and the position of the clamped workpiece on the pallet are linked to the order and sorted into a list according to priority. The operator can schedule several production orders simultaneously.