Intelligent software algorithms are essential for real-time collision avoidance, but they are only half the story. The other half is a well-designed user interface that enables operators to drive the software effectively. In their latest cooperation ModuleWorks, technology providers for digital manufacturing solutions, and the CHIRON Group, CNC machine tool manufacturers, put operator experience at the center of a new GUI for the ModuleWorks Collision Avoidance System (CAS).
The ModuleWorks CAS uses real-time machining data and look-ahead technology to detect immanent collisions and stop the machining process before an actual collision occurs. The CHIRON Group uses CAS as part of their ProtectLine digital system to protect their high-end machining centers from potentially expensive damage and downtime.
In addition to sophisticated algorithms, effective collision avoidance requires careful setup by the operator to ensure the system accurately represents the entire machining process, including the fixtures, workpiece and tools. The user interface therefore plays a pivotal role in the acceptance and effectiveness of the system:
“We asked ourselves: ‘What do operators need from a GUI in order to use the CAS effectively? The obvious answer was to ask the operators, so we created a project team with the CHIRON Group and their machine operators. This proved a great approach. In less than 12 months we were able to launch a new GUI that raises usability and operator acceptance.”
“Collision avoidance is indispensable for safe and cost-effective manufacturing. Through the cooperation we have a system that truly supports machine operators and encourages them to use the full benefits of the collision avoidance technology on our machining centers”
ModuleWorks and the CHIRON Group at EMO 2021
The results of the cooperation between the machine tool builder, technology supplier and machine operators will be exhibited for the first time at EMO 2021 in Milan (4-9 October, 2021).
The ProtectLine digital system is on show at the CHIRON Group booth (Pavilion 4, Booth B05).
ModuleWorks is also demonstrating its Collision Avoidance System at the ModuleWorks booth (Pavilion 7, Booth H15).
ModuleWorks is the leading software component provider for the digital manufacturing industry. With over 200 employees and 1000 person-years of software development, ModuleWorks’ expertise in toolpath creation and simulation is recognized throughout the industry and its software components are already optimizing the performance and quality of over 500,000 installed seats of CAD/CAM and CNC software around the world. From standard products to exclusive development projects, ModuleWorks helps companies to bring their vision of Industry 4.0 to life. With its comprehensive portfolio of cutting-edge software components, ModuleWorks enables its customers to optimize their CAD/CAM solutions and connect to CNC/MTB systems to increase their competitiveness and help them Get There Faster.
The CHIRON Group, headquartered in Tuttlingen, is a global company specializing in CNC vertical milling and mill-turn machining centers, as well as turnkey manufacturing solutions. The Group has a global presence, with production and development sites, sales and service subsidiaries, and sales agencies worldwide. Around two thirds of machines and solutions that are sold are exported. Key customer sectors are the automotive, mechanical engineering, medicine and precision engineering, aerospace industries and tool production.
The CHIRON Group is proprietor of the brands CHIRON, STAMA and FACTORY5, associated with new machines, as well as the retrofit brand CMS. The key feature of all the brands is precise, productive and flexible machining. CHIRON has a reputation for optimum dynamics. STAMA focuses on stability and heavy machining. FACTORY5 machining centers are ideally suited for high-speed machining of microtechnical components. CMS provides completely overhauled machines from the Group, including related services. With products and solutions for additive manufacturing, the CHIRON Group supplements its core competencies.