Introduction
CNC machined components, also called numerical control machines, have automated the control of machining tools in a fundamental manner. Traditionally the controlling factor was G-codes. These were pre-loaded programs that allowed administrators to position the tools. However this technology had limitations.It did not allow external change in the parameters, thus limiting the features of the finished product. By the early 1980’s, most manufacturers adopted computer -aided machining systems. CNC machine components have since become the domain of artificial intelligence technologies. The availability of AI tech such as deep learning and machine learning is transforming designing technologies.
In the following sections the changes in the machining industry are discussed in detail.
CNC machined components: Trends to watch
The the machining industry is driven by artificial intelligence in the following ways:
1. Human-machine interfaces
To control industrial machines in a factory environment human machine interface or hmi is used. It helps to connect the people and the Machines. With the introduction of latest technology human machine interface has also evolved. It now gives workers the capability to visualise the status of a machine as it happens. Workers can remotely collaborate with employees in a different geographical location. The people controlling the machine can also work with customers off-site or on-site giving them an overview of operations. Human machine interface also gives operators the ability to forecast and anticipate likely bottlenecks. More importantly it gives administrators and operators the facility to continually monitor key performance indicators. The trend in HMI currently is building the ability to recognise gestures as well as receive haptic feedback.
2. Bots in CNC components machining
A groundbreaking change happening in CNC work floors is using robotic machines to tend to common functions. The idea of using bots is to perform repeated actions like loading the work pieces or unloading the work pieces. This gives machinists extra time to pursue other responsibilities. The trend that is expected to further improve the use of these robots is collaborative robots or cobots. The idea of using such robots is that they should work autonomously. Cobots are safe in shared workspaces because they have in-built exceptionally designed capabilities to sense objects and people in their path. They adjust their speed and path to avoid collisions.
3. Additive manufacturing
There have been iconic advances in medical device printing using 3D printing and additive manufacturing. Most medical device manufacturers have embraced additive manufacturing and are designing implants,instruments using this technology. Manufacturers are able to create easy workflows by combining hardware, software and design factors. The processing steps to manufacture the compounds have also reduced considerably. Therefore additive manufacturing is a trend that is expected to further improve the machined component categories.
Thus the trends in the artificial intelligence-driven precision machining industry is expected to bring a new generation of sensor-controlled CNC machined components.
Micro CNC machine components in medical device industry
CNC machined components are now standard parts of medical devices and especially dental parts manufacturing. The concept of micromachining is the manufacturing of parts in the components that are micro sized. They have average diameters of 0.7875 inches and tolerance of plus or minus 0.001 inches. Before the emphasis is on precision in the micro machining categories of manufacturing. Every component mandatorily meets the precise levels of tolerance. Micro machine medical parts comply with ISO certificate 9001: 2015 and ISO 13485:2016. The latter standard is specifically for medical device components manufacturing. Some examples of micromachine medical devices are surgical grippers, gimbal lock plates, and dental parts and pediatric ortho implants.The commonly used precision machining model for micromachined medical devices is the willemin-macodel model.These machines are multi-process-driven and use a 5-Axis production method with a mean capacity of 42000 rmp for dynamic thermal stabilization.