CGTech is excited to announce a new VERICUT module developed in partnership with Scytec: CNC Machine Connect. This new VERICUT module allows users to connect with the CNC machines on their shop floor using Scytec’s DataXchange software. This data can be used to create and maintain more accurate digital twins through VERICUT Machine Configurations (VMCs), as well as confirm that CNC machines and VERICUT simulations match as closely as possible, to eliminate unexpected surprises on the shop floor during machining.
The current version of CNC Machine Connect available with the launch of VERICUT 9.3 comes with a pre-check capability. Pre-check allows users and machine operators to verify that key aspects of CNC machine and setup information match what was previously verified in VERICUT prior to running the part on the machine. This feature validates critical control parameters that impact machine motion and behavior, main NC program, subprograms, work offsets, cutting tools, and more. Significant differences are clearly identified and can be investigated prior to machining or updated to rerun the VERICUT simulation with data retrieved from the machine to ensure no new problems or unexpected errors are introduced by the current machine setup.
Future releases will add a post-machining capability to provide valuable insight about how NC programs ran on the machine. Users can connect to machines to retrieve current resident data, or access data archived when the machine ran, turning VERICUT into a powerful forensic investigative tool to improve machining processes. Users can identify modifications made to NC programs, overrides used on the machine, and where these occurred during the machining process. This historical data can also be used investigate potential issues that may have caused poor machining conditions leading to poor part quality or parts out of specification.
CGTech has worked closely with Scytec, an independent machine monitoring software company to create the initial release of this connective capability. DataXchange is currently sold in the U.S. and across the globe. The initial release of the CNC Machine Connect module utilizes Scytec’s DataXchange software to connect with CNC machines having modern FANUC controls such as 0i and 31i models. Future plans include connecting with other popular controls such as Siemens, Heidenhain, and more.
“Even after using the best verification software, we recognize that there can still be ‘gaps’ between what was simulated, and the actual CNC machine environment. Such differences have resulted in unpleasant surprises, or damage to the part or machine,” says Gene Granata, CGTech Director of Project Management. “That’s why we’re excited to release a new CNC Machine Connect module in 9.3 that enables VERICUT to connect directly to CNC machines. Through this connection users can enhance their VERICUT digital twins with parameters from the machine, and verify that key setup information match what was previously verified by VERICUT. Any differences are clearly identified, enabling users to investigate further, or update VERICUT with the machine-resident information and reperform the simulation to ensure that no significant problems will be introduced.”
“We see huge gains companies make with machine monitoring,” says Josh Davids, President and CEO of Scytec Consulting Incorporated. “Incorporating VERICUT in the digital transformation journey takes those gains to another level and highlights the value of the digital twin concept and the importance of smart factory technology in the Industry 4.0 era.”
