Intuitive CNC HMIs with simulation functionality

With CNC HMI Base (TF5310) and CNC HMI Simulation Server (TF5320), the TwinCAT 3 automation software from Beckhoff offers two new function libraries for CNC-specific user interfaces. These were used to create an advanced, intuitive HMI application specifically for CNC purposes and to simulate part machining using real-time data.

The TwinCAT 3 CNC HMI Base software package is based entirely on the tried-and-tested TwinCAT 3 HMI Server (TF2000) and therefore integrates seamlessly into the TwinCAT HMI product family. An extensive choice of technology-specific control elements is included, such as axis display, spindle and speed override, functions, a contour editor, plus a tool data and zero offset table. The G-Code editor that is included supports cycle-based CNC programming in conjunction with the TwinCAT cycle products CNC Measurement (TF5225), CNC Kinematic Optimization, (TF5245) and CNC Milling Base (TF5293). The package also includes a soft keypad (MCP) that can be configured during runtime. Integration into real time is achieved via a dedicated TwinCAT HMI server extension. This aggregates data from TwinCAT PLC and CNC into a common data model and makes it available to the client components. TwinCAT 3 CNC HMI Base allows user interfaces to be designed freely, taking customer-specific design rules into account. Ready-to-use templates are also available to facilitate the engineering process.

The TwinCAT 3 CNC HMI Simulation Server integrates the 3D simulation control element, which is included in the TwinCAT 3 CNC HMI Base package, into the real-time data from TwinCAT CNC. The current tool’s data and the blank definition stored in the NC program are accessed. The simulation runs either in sync with real machining (real-time simulation) or in fast forward (without real axis movement using the contour visualization modes available in TwinCAT CNC). This allows the NC program to be checked visually in advance. 3- and 5-axis milling processes are currently supported, with additional technologies in the pipeline.