Machine Tool Controls

Abstract

The different controls for a machine tool are: powering on and off the machine tool, guiding the tool or the workpiece, controlling the tool or workpiece movement, rate of movement of the tool and the workpiece, selection of appropriate facilities required for production and so on. The machine tools can be controlled either manually or automatically. The clear distinction between successive levels of control is a tedious task since one level overlaps with the next successive level. The present chapter provides an overview of different levels of machine controls. A brief in the CNC and DNC systems has been provided with a discussion on working, functions and advantages over the conventional NC systems. The chapter also discusses on the adaptive control of the machining systems.