Software simplifies CNC programming.
Press Release Summary:
Manual Guide i(TM) software provides graphical instruction-based method of programming Series 16i, 18i, and 21i open system CNCs. Part program editing includes cut, paste, and copy options for specific program sections. Operators develop programs using pre-built part program blocks or enter them by selecting from menus. Software provides guidance messages in G- or M-code comments, and turning and milling simulations are displayed through 3D animation sequences.
Original Press Release:
New Manual Guide i(TM) Software from GE Fanuc Simplifies Programming of Complex Lathe and Milling Applications
CHICAGO -September 4, 2002 -GE Fanuc Automation is announcing the new Manual Guide i(TM) software - which provides an easy-to-use, graphical instructions-based method of programming the company's popular Series 16i, 18i and 21i open system CNCs - at the IMTS 2002 show, September 4-11, Chicago, Booth D-4202.
"Manual guidance offers an alternative approach to programming CNCs and helps to simplify complex machining," said Douglas Peterson, vice president of GE Fanuc's CNC and Laser Business. "By combining the ease of manual machining with the functionality of CNC milling and turning, we have developed an innovative method of programming - one that does not require the operator to understand G code programming."
Building on existing GE Fanuc manual guidance functionality, the new Manual Guide i software features significant enhancements that further simplify programming and reduce machine setup time. Part program editing now gives users the flexibility to cut and paste, or copy, a specific section of a program. Operators can develop programs using a series of pre-built part program blocks or enter them automatically by selecting from a menu. The software provides guidance messages in operator-friendly G- or M-code comments displayed onscreen, and M-codes can be registered for exclusive use with a specific machine.
Additionally, Manual Guide i software offers a simple method for programming a variety of probe cycles at the machine tool without any operator knowledge of G Code. Selections are available for probe calibration, tool setting, setting fixture offsets, and basic metrology. GE Fanuc, which is a Renishaw solution provider, packages probe hardware with Manual Guide i and supplies installation and training to ensure seamless integration, simplify implementation, and reduce setup time.
Realistic machining simulation of turning and milling, including the difficult visualization of milling on an inclined surface, are brought to life through Manual Guide i's 3D animation sequence, helping to reduce the tine required to check part programs.
Manual Guide i supports applications for such complex machines as compound milling (milling and turning) and multi-path lathes. This functionality allows an entire machining process to be carried out with only one workpiece setup, which can decrease setup time, risk of errors and overall machining cycle time.
"Manual Guide i's dual machining programming capability is advantageous to the many machine shops with operators that are not familiar with both turning and milling, and where the machining motions of dual part machining programs are difficult to check," Peterson said. "In addition, setup time can be significantly decreased in these applications because tool offset data and coordinate data no longer have to be set separately for both types of operations."
Manual Guidance functionality from GE Fanuc also includes: all-in-one screen displays; a machine status window in which actual position, feed rate and load meters are always displayed; and seamless integration with CAD/CAM systems.
About GE Fanuc Automation
GE Fanuc Automation North America, Inc., is a leading global supplier of automation solutions and is a joint venture between GE and FANUC, Ltd. of Japan. GE Fanuc products and services include CIMPLICITY® collaborative production management software, nano to high-end PLCs, a wide range of CNCs, motion control, operator interfaces, industrial computers, lasers, and a wide range of integration and customer support services. Headquartered in Charlottesville, Va., GE Fanuc is part of GE Industrial Systems. For more information, visit www.gefanuc.com.
About GE Industrial Systems
GE Industrial Systems spans the globe as an industry leader in integrated industrial equipment, systems and services. The business brings to customers the latest technological products used to distribute. protect and control electrical power and equipment, and provides innovative product and service solutions for commercial, industrial. residential and utility applications. Headquartered in Plainville, Connecticut, USA, GE Industrial Systems (www.geindustrial.com) is one of the major businesses of the General Electric Company (NYSE: GE).
For more information, visit www.gefanuc.com or contact:
GE Fanuc Information Center
P.O. Box 8106
Charlottesville, VA 22906
Phone: (800) 648-2001
Fax: 434-978-5205
e-mail: gefanuc@gefanuc.com
