Simulated numerical control point-to-point part programming

The purpose of this study was to develop an effective and efficient unit of instruction in numerical control (N/C) part-programming under simulated conditions. The multi-media approach included overhead projector transparencies, a slide series, and the N/C Simulator (a portable teaching aid designed and constructed especially for this study). A programmer's success is based on the ability to optimize N/C machine tool utilization attained from practice in preparing, analyzing, and revising programs. Therefore, a knowledge of machining practices as well as the ability to communicate with the N/C machine control unit is essential. This procedure emphasizes man-machine communication. Gaining the above mentioned skills requires training. In the past two decades of N/C existence, industry has normally prepared personnel to control their equipment. Machine manufacturers conduct workshops for customers when numerical control machine tools are purchased. A limited number of educational institutions have begun programs in this specialized field. Continuous growth would suggest implication of the nation's school systems to train personnel. Currently, millions of dollars are spent annually to replace unserviceable, conventional machines with N/C hardware. Serviceable machinery is being retro fit with N/C controls. Because of demand, delivery dates are projected in months and years. Programmer training interpretation for the school should be one of generalization. The graduate should be capable of communicating with various--often unstandardized--N/C machines. The problem in this study was to abstract information from pertinent resources for a universal approach to M/C programming. Educational media were supplemented to communicate terminology to the students who ultimately would prepare a manuscript for a specific M/C machine tool.