Control Software is designed to aid in CNC machining.
July 22, 2004 -
Windows®-based program lets users view or edit programs during machining, run other software simultaneously as machine is milling, and download files through company network. Via standard Internet connection, users can remotely diagnose machine or monitor activity. User can also load and execute Fanuc® G and M codes without having to convert them with post processor. Also included: tool database, simulation section, 3D CAD smoothing feature, and 16 input/outputs.
(Archive News Story - Products mentioned in this Archive News Story may or may not be available from the manufacturer.)
Original Press release
Datron Dynamics, Inc.
454 Rte. 13
Milford, NH, 03055
USA
Datron Dynamics Introducing New Windows®-Based Control for Datron CNC Machines at IMTS 2004
Unique Control Delivers Substantially Increased Flexibility And Ease-Of-Use Plus Remote Diagnostics And Monitoring Capabilities
MILFORD, NH, Jul. 12, 2004 - The ability to view or edit programs during machining, run other software simultaneously as a machine is milling or download large files through a company network are just a few examples of the dynamic capabilities of a new Windows®-based control software program available from Datron Dynamics, Inc. for its CNC machines. Additionally, via a standard Internet connection, a user can remotely diagnose the machine or monitor the machine's activity anytime, anyplace.
Datron Dynamics will occupy Booth #B-6038 at the International Manufacturing Technology Show 2004 (IMTS) at McCormick Place in Chicago, Ill., Sept. 8 to 15.
Interfacing with the software is easily done with keystrokes on the keyboard or a simple click of the mouse. All the standard Windows® short key functions and features make the learning curve short and the daily operation easy. The software is available in an off-line version for a desktop PC. Both the machine and desktop versions of the software will run on any standard Pentium® PC, with Windows® 98, 2000, XP and NT operating systems. Therefore, the PC shipped with a Datron machine can be upgraded and maintained by a user's own IT department or external source PC-support vendors.
Familiar Windows program features make loading a project fast and easy. Users can select a drop-down menu with history of the last files machined or run a program located on another PC on the network. File names can be longer and spaced liked standard MS Word® documents.
The standard control allows the user to load and execute standard Fanuc® G and M codes without having to convert them with a special post processor. If a CAD/CAM package is being used with an existing post processor for another CNC machine, in most cases, the same post can be used. The intelligent control can decipher between standard Fanuc® G and M codes and the time saving Datron canned cycle commands. The control also offers the ability to use variables and math functions, with both Datron commands and G Codes.
In addition to running standard G Code, the Windows® control offers a multitude of additional commands to simplify the production of parts, such as controlling the touch probe and performing automated routines for pocketing, making simple contours and engraving serialization text, or to thread mill all types of threads in an extensive range of sizes from a 2-56 internal hole to a 2" external thread.
Data for all tools in Datron's optional, 10-, 20- or 40-tool change system can be stored in the controller's tool database. To edit a tool, the user simply double-clicks on a tool line item and the dialogue box showing the parameters for that tool appears.
The Windows®-based control software includes a comprehensive simulation section, which has ability to print the part as a graphic, export a simulation as a .jpeg or analyze and obtain statistics on a region of a part including the estimated cycle time. A color system indicates the depths of cut and can animate the machining process.
For CAD/CAM packages with more sophisticated three-dimensional surfacing capabilities, the Datron control offers a unique smoothing feature that allows the operator to turn the command on or off at any point in a program and optimize the vector travel of the machine, creating significant improvements in surface finish and production times. This feature is extremely beneficial in three-dimensional machining and has reduced cycle times by half, in some cases.
The control has the flexibility to interface with external automation systems such as pallet changers, robotics and clamping systems. With 16 input/outputs and many options within each I/O, the control can tackle highly sophisticated automation requirements. The control can also run up to 32 separate I-Servo® drives simultaneously for complex automation requirements.
Datron has committed an entire section of software for enhanced service and support of its products. An operator can easily check items such as the current consumption on a servo motor, temperature of the spindle and electronic continuity. A report function allows a user to ask questions or report problems by simply typing a message in a dialogue box, and sends the report via e-mail to a Datron service specialist directly from their machine. This report includes all the error message files, system files and .ini files from the machine, which allows Datron service specialists make a diagnosis and quickly provide a solution. If desired, the Windows®-based control has the ability to remotely diagnose the machine over the Internet.
About Datron: Datron Dynamics is the North American subsidiary of Datron Electronic, a German technology firm established in 1969 that has become a leader in the design and development of CNC machining and dispensing systems. Founded in 1996 by President, Walter Schnecker, Ph.D. and Vice President, William King, Datron Dynamics is differentiated in the marketplace by its focus on high-speed machining with micro-tooling. Datron machines feature 60,000 RPM spindles that produce low force, feed rates of up to 1000"/minute and superior quality when tooling 0.250" and under. An Ethanol-Mist Coolant System(TM) provides superb surface finishes and eliminates secondary processes like de-burring and de-greasing while being environmentally friendly. Other features such as the Z-Correction Probe(TM), Automatic Tool Management System(TM) and their proprietary Quick-Pallets(TM) and Vacumate(TM) workholding systems enable batch machining and "lights-out" production. These distinctions have resulted in over 1,000 installations worldwide within industries requiring superior production of EDM electrodes, hot stamping and embossing dies, 3D mold making, rapid prototyping, 3D precision engraving, front panels and the production of automotive and aerospace parts.
For more information on Datron's products, contact Robert Murphy at Datron Dynamics, Inc. 454 Route 13, Milford, NH 03055. Tel: 888-262-2833; Website: DatronDynamics.com; E-mail: info@datrondynamics.com.
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