In contemporary manufacturing settings, CNC machining plays an indispensable role. The technology revolutionizes the early 1940s using numerical control (NC) machines. From 1751, a significant enhancement was made to overcome the limitation of manual operations in terms of accuracy. Modern CNC machines comprise automated feeding mechanisms. These are centered with a 2D, or 3D file to control the tool’s alignments. All processes are managed by the latest tools and axis movement.
Origin of CNC
Advanced CNC machines came into being during World War II. Initially, emergency needs of machine parts were needed for the aerospace sector. Traditional techniques of manufacturing were unable to address/fulfill these requirements.
Pioneers of CNC Machining
CNC Machining pioneers’ observations altered how products were made. Notable contributors were John T., & Frank L.
John T. Parsons: Parson was the first CNC machining establisher, and he developed numerical control for machine tools. Working with MIT, he succeeded in designing the first numerically controlled machines. His work was more towards the process of making helicopter blades and other sophisticated aircraft components.
Frank L. Stulen: Stulen developed Parsons’ theories further. He focuses on the technical aspects of CNC machining. The intended innovation reached an accuracy never seen before with punch tape technology, quite similar to today’s CNC machines.
Early Developments in CNC
In 1949, the idea of Numerical Control (NC) was developed by Parson. He, as a part of an MIT military research project, developed an experimental milling machine. This technology equipped motorized axes for making blades and aircraft skins.
Before this cooperation, Parsons Corporation used an IBM 602A multiplier. Their machine calculated airfoil coordinates and punched cards to send data. This preprogrammed system has provided a basis for future CNC programming to be developed.
In 1952, Richard Kegg entered into a partnership with MIT to bring into the Cincinnati Hydro-Tel. This revolutionary 28-inch vertical spindle milling machine was later patented. The early prototype models employed 8-channel punched tape and a transistor control mechanism, which were later improved by subsequent developments.
Preliminary, CNC machines were used as punched tape. These serve as a telecommunications tool at that time. Through many years, the most popular computation techniques were analog ones. Subsequently, during the 1960s and 1970s, production methods saw significant innovations.
In 1968, Parson was recognized by the US government, with a Joseph Marie Jacquard Memorial award. Further, in 1975, the Society of Manufacturing Engineers honored him with the title of “The Father of the Second Industrial Revolution.
Development In Today’s CNC Machining Factory
Contemporary automated motion control systems rely on three fundamental elements. These systems include a command function: it can be digital or analog. In drive and motion systems which have motors, cylinders, valves, and clutches. Moreover, feedback systems, for example, encoders, which give significant data.
Originally, CNC machines used CAMs for control, and these cams determined how the motors had to run. In those systems, if the feedback cable was not functioning, stopping the flow of fluid was out of the question.
Modern CNC machines have electronic control mechanisms. These help reduce such failures as is evident from the case above. The advancement guarantees better and more consistent outcomes.
In addition, modern machining techniques have also been transformed. Techniques such as Electron Beam Machining as well as Electrical Discharge Machining are chosen concerning the material used in the large quantities of production runs. Other methods include laser cutting, oxy-fuel cutting, water jet cutting, and plasma cutting.
Conclusion
The history of CNC machining is fascinating. Over the years, it has evolved significantly. Today, CNC technology has positively impacted manufacturing sectors and changed the way for fabricate their products. Moreover, it advances the fields and enhances the product’s precision and reliability.
FAQs
Q1. When was the first CNC machine officially patented?
The first patent was filed by Richard Kegg in 1958. This was a change from using hand tools to using automated systems.
Q2. How has the application of CNC technology influenced manufacturing efficiency?
Modern CNC technologies have greatly enhanced the machining productivity. As it reduces the manual inputs and is laborious operations. This makes production faster and mitigates the likeliness of any mistakes.
