A computer numerically controlled (CNC) machine performs different movements while it is required to execute any particular series of operations. The motions performed can be rapid, straight line or circular. A CNC motion controller issues commands to the machine through the use of CNC software.
In effect, a controller acts like the human brain, which controls body movements. These controllers are made up of various electronic components mounted on a circuit board. The software for CNC operations is in the computer linked to this machine and passes on the commands to the controller. The circuit board on the controller deciphers these commands and activates various motors, which the machine will have for performing any operations.
A CNC machine will have one part of it that does the actual work, which may be cutting, drilling, milling or other required functions. This section needs to get the proper instructions to perform the operations. In earlier machines, this was done manually by trained operators, who were aware of the required sequences of the operations, needed to create the final product. In a CNC machine, this job is done by a CNC motion controller, which gets the coordinates and commands from the computer and translates it into the required physical motion which is performed by the various motors which this controller is linked to. Coordinates are necessary to decide the correct position of the part or job being worked on, and the commands activate the mechanical part, which is needed to perform the required physical action of cutting, milling, drilling or other. Each mechanical part has servo motors which are activated by these commands.
CNC controllers evolved from the earlier numerical controllers, but with the use of computers, which helped to come up with designs and computer aided manufacturing, CNC motion controllers were developed which are capable of initiating and controlling very complex moves of any machine, which are needed to complete the work required on any raw material being worked on. These controllers have a direct interface with the concerned machine, and a programmer can manipulate the machine to perform all the various moves required to complete any operations, by issuing commands through a computer.
A CNC motion controller receives power from its own power supply unit and is basically made up of an electronic circuit. These circuits have circuit protection systems which get activated by power surges, and will also have fuses to cut off power if there is a short circuit. The circuit is linked to all the various motors on the machine and converts the programme commands into the electrical output, that initiates the working of each of the motors.
In modern CNC machines, controllers act to translate any dialogue between the computer and the machine, and this two-way communication allows the motor to generate feedback. This allows an action to be taken by the computer to modify commands or halt the machine in case of problems. Machines and computers keep getting faster, and CNC allows very complex operations to be performed much quicker.
CNC controllers are capable of increasing the efficiency of machines and literally allow for a very high degree of automation, which only a skilled operator with years of experience can match in terms of quality. They also allow for faster turnaround times, reduce the requirement of manpower and allow for a number of machines to be controlled by one operator. They literally allow for poetry in motion, by allowing machines to perform a number of operations, without losing any time between each of them.