Hard-wired DNC versions are also substituted with wireless DNC. This kind of control is highly common in industries like the automobile, appliance, and aerospace sectors that involve a lot of sheet metal manufacturing. The computer may deliver applications to many computers as needed if it is connected to several machines. Typically, the control’s manufacturer offers appropriate DNC software.
Well, in this reading, I’ll be exploring what direct numerical control is, its functions, diagram, types, advantages, disadvantages, and how it works.
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Contents
What Is Direct Numerical Control?
Direct numerical control (DNC), also known as distributed numerical control (also DNC), is a common manufacturing term for networking CNC machine tools.
When milling complicated surfaces, for example, the available memory on some CNC machine controllers is insufficient to hold the machining program. In these situations, the program is saved on a different computer and delivered, block by block, straight to the machine.
If this clause is unfeasible, several software providers offer DNC apps that serve the same function. It is usually necessary to have DNC networking or DNC communication when using CAM applications with CNC machine controls.
Functions of Direct Numerical Control
Below are the major functions of DNC system:
- The central computer is used to int and edit a program for all connected machines tools to the computer.
- On requirement, basis gives the stored program to the connected machines
- Having a common database, it combines CAD with CAM
- Provides a link between the central computer and plant computers connected through network even though plant computers are very far
- For on-demand delivery of stored programs to the connected machines.
- To process part programs written in higher-level languages, such as APT.
Diagram of a DNC Machine
Types of Direct Numerical Control
The two main types of DNC system are Behind the Taper Reader (BTR) system and specialized MCU.
1. Behind the Tape Reader (BTR) system
The computer and standard NC controller unit are directly linked in this kind of setup. With the exception of the source of the command instructions, the system operates similarly to a traditional NC.
The DNC computer provides instruction blocks, which the controller unit uses in two temporary storage buffers to translate into machine operations. While one buffer receives a block of data, the other gives the particular machine tool control instructions. This system has a relatively cheap cost.
2. Specialized MCU
The customized machine control unit should be used in place of the standard controller unit in a specialized MCU system. The purpose of the unique control unit is to facilitate communication between computers and machine equipment.
How Direct Numerical Control Works
Direct Numerical Control (DNC) is a process set in a manufacturing unit where a set of machines is controlled by a set up computer with the help of a direct connection to the same.
It is based on real-time data and involves data collection from the machines and passing the same to the mainframe, at regular intervals. The operator will be in control of the mainframe computer through remote access.
A DNC will not contain a tape reader. Instead, it has several part programs that are transferred to the machines from the computer memory, In certain situations, the machine controllers will not be able to store the entire program.
Advantages of DNC Machine
Below are the benefits of a DNC machine:
- Direct numerical control eliminates the need for the system reader and punched taps.
- The firm benefits from several reports and valuable data generated by the equipment,
- which aid in understanding production performance.
- It facilitates the development of a centralized machine control system.
- helpful for boosting productivity and managing time.
- Part programs can be conveniently stored in many computer files.
assists the business in making more important decisions - It facilitates the company’s growth in computational capacity.
- It efficiently supports management information systems.
Disadvantages of DNC Machine
Below are limitations of a DNC machine in their various applications:
- DNC is quite costly and needs highly automated spaces.
- Because of its central control system, all machine operations would cease if the computer failed.