CNC Systems

Computer Numerical Control Systems

A Computer: The computer is used to draw the design. However, the design is only a picture and the CNC machine cannot use this to manufacture the product. The computer software must also convert the drawing into numbers (coordinates) that the CNC machine can use when it starts to cut and shape the material. The computer is used to input the design. Technical software such as CAD software is used to draw the design. The computer connects to the interface.
An Interface: A computer can't be directly connected to a CNC machine. It's connected to an interface. This converts the signals from the computer to a form the CNC machine understands. The signals are in the form of digital signals when they are sent to the CNC machine.
CNC Machine: (A lathe, mill, cutter, drill system). The signals from the interface control the motors on the CNC machine. The signals determine the way the vice moves. The vice moves in three directions X, Y and Z. (Horizontally, vertically and depth). The signals also control the speed of the cutting tool.