Analysis of File Conversion Program used for CNC Machine

Abstract

- Computer numerical control (CNC) is a method for automating control of machine tools through the use of software embedded in a microcomputer or processor attached to the tool. It is commonly used in manufacturing for machining metal and plastic parts. Previously CNC machine is attached with computer and all the commands are given using computer. Now a days DSP processor is used in modern CNC systems having USB and SD card slots through which we can program CNC machine. The problem with the existing computer based system is it needs to connect to the CNC system as communication take place through the RS232 protocol. The use of RS232 is very inefficient and time consuming than the latest CNC systems due to its slow speed. Replacement of RS232 by USB or SD card communication has increased the speed from 115.2 Kbps to 12 Mbps. In this study DSP processor by Texas Instruments TMS320F2837xd is used which is dual core processor with features of flash programming. This study focuses on understanding and analysing file conversion program to optimize the feed rates and reducing overall machining time of CNC machine. The input to the file conversion program is tool path file generated from CAM software and output is the file with suitable feed rates and other parameters required by CNC machine.