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Numerical control define : Numerical control can be

defined as a form of programmable automation

in which the process is controlled by numbers, letters, and symbols

Advantages of Numerical control :

1. Reduced nonproductive time. Numerical control has little or no
effect
on the basic metal cutting (or other manufacturing) process. However, NC
can increase the proportion of time the machine is engaged in the acutal
process. It accomplishes this by means of fewer setups, less time in setting
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up, reduced work-piece handling time, automatic tool changes on some
machines, and so on.
2. Reduced fixturing. NC requires fixtures which are simpler and less
costly to fabricate because the positioning is done by the NC tape rather
than the jig or fixture.
3. Reduced manufacturing lead time. Because jobs can be set up
more
quickly with NC and fewer setups are generally required with NC, the lead
time to deliver a job to the customer is reduced. According to the
University of Michigan survey, average lead-time reductions range
between 26 and 44%, depending on type of machine tool.
4. Greater manufacturing flexibility. With numerical control it is
less
difficult to adapt to engineering design changes, alterations of the
production schedule changeovers in jobs for rush orders,and so on.
5. Improved quality control. NC is ideal for complicated workparts
where
the chances of human mistakes are high. Numerical control produces parts
with greater accuracy, reduced scrap, and lower inspection requirements.
Smith and Evans report that the average scrap decrease from NC ranges
from 31 to 44%, depending on type of machine tool, and that the annual
cost savings from reduced inspection needs of NC are about 38%.

2- 1. CNC machines can be used continuously 24 hours a day, 365 days a year and
only need to be switched off for occasional maintenance.
2. CNC machines are programmed with a design which can then be manufactured
hundreds or even thousands of times. Each manufactured product will be exactly
the same.
3. Less skilled/trained people can operate CNCs unlike manual lathes / milling
machines etc.. which need skilled engineers.
4. CNC machines can be updated by improving the software used to drive the
machines
5. Training in the use of CNCs is available through the use of virtual software.
This is software that allows the operator to practice using the CNC machine on the
screen of a computer. The software is similar to a computer game.
6. CNC machines can be programmed by advanced design software such as
Pro/DESKTOP, enabling the manufacture of products that cannot be made by
manual machines, even those used by skilled designers / engineers.
7. Modern design software allows the designer to simulate the manufacture of
his/her idea. There is no need to make a prototype or a model. This saves time and
money.
8. One person can supervise many CNC machines as once they are programmed
they can usually be left to work by themselves. Sometimes only the cutting tools
need replacing occasionally.
9. A skilled engineer can make the same component many times. However, if each
component is carefully studied, each one will vary slightly. A CNC machine will
manufacture each component as an exact match
10. Monitoring by screen more accurate control by computer
3- main components of an NC system :
1. Program of instructions
2. Controller unit, also called a machine control unit (MCU)
3. Machine tool or other controlled process

Program of
instructions:

The program of instructions

is the detailed step-by-step
set of directions
which tell the machine tool
what to do. It is coded in numerical or
symbolic form on some type of input medium that can be interpreted by
the controller unit

Controller unit :

This
consists of the electronics and
hardware that read and
interpret the program
of instructions and convert it into mechanical actions of the machine tool.
The typical elements of a conventional NC controller unit include the tape
reader, a data buffer, signal output channels to the machine tool, feedback
channels from the machine tool, and the sequence controls to coordinate
the. overall operation of the foregoing elements

Machine tool or other controlled process :

It is the part of the NC system

which performs useful
work. In the most common

example of an NC system, one designed to

perform machining operations, the machine tool consists of the worktable
and spindle as well as the motors and controls necessary to drive them. It
also includes the cutting tools, work fixtures, and other auxiliary
equipment needed in the machining operation.