SKCN 162 - Computer Numerical Control Theory

Credits: 4
Instructional Contact Hours: 4

Uses various methods, such as a text editor, machine control unit, and CAD/CAM (MasterCam) to produce alpha-numeric code (G-Code) which will run CNC machinery. Uses blueprints to problem solve and program both point-to-point and complex contours on machining centers and turning centers. Discusses machines with 2, 3, 4, and 5 axis controls. Emphasizes common formats of programming. Discusses machine tool controllers including HAAS, Funac, and Okuma. Includes hands-on activities. Credit may be earned in either CNC 162 or SKCN 162 but not in both.

Prerequisite(s): MS 181W or SKTR 181W, and SKMA 103 or MTH 103 or MT 110, or Instructor permission.
Corequisite(s): None
Lecture Hours: 40 Lab Hours: 20
Meets MTA Requirement: None
Pass/NoCredit: No

Outcomes and Objectives

Understand the importance of headers, machine tape information, and operator information.
1. Identify importance of program headers.
2. Understand what information is important in setup and machining documentation.
3. Explain the functions of tooling information in a header.
Understand the basics of Blueprint Reading for CNC Programmers.
1. Identify the sizes and format for CNC prints.
2. Describe a section view and the types of section views used in prints.
3. Understand how to read tolerances.
4. Obtain a fundamental knowledge of how to Interpret geometric dimensioning and tolerancing notes and symbols.
Write CNC programs for a machining center as well as a turning center.
1. Gain knowledge in most important fixed cycles for hole drilling.
2. Demonstrate hole operation programs with the aid of canned cycles.
3. Understand sequence commands required for executing linear profiling.
4. Compute cutter offsets for inclined line profiling.
5. Understand the commands used for clockwise and counterclockwise circular interpolation.
6. Code complete CNC programs for executing line-arc profiling operations.
7. Recognize the advantages of invoking cutter diameter compensation in programs.
8. Apply cutter diameter compensation in programming milling operations.
Use the mathematics for CNC programming.
1. Compute the sides of right triangles.
2. Determine the angles of right triangles.
3. Understand useful angle concepts.
Work with subprograms.
1. Understand what a subprogram is.
2. Interpret the commands and rules for creating and processing subprograms.
3. Comprehend the advantages of subprogramming.
4. Write complete programs by utilizing subprogramming.
Understand the advantages of using off-line programming.
1. Understand the advantages of using a computer-aided programming language.
2. State the key elements comprising a CAD/CAM system.
3. Explain how part programs are developed with the aid of CAD/CAM.
4. Understand how knowledge-based machining software simplifies the job of creating part programs.
Students will have the knowledge to program and input/output programs for vertical and horizontal machining centers and turning centers.
1. Understand the role of CNC personnel
  1. Programmer
  2. Set-up Person
  3. Operator
2. Interpret blueprint points (using trigonometry)
3. Obtain fundamental knowledge of tolerances and GD&T
4. Understand how to construct a logical program
  1. Beginning (tool preparation)
  2. Middle (machining operation)
  3. End (tool return and next tool prep)
5. Program both point-to-point and complex contours
6. Understand computer to controller communications
7. Basic knowledge of CAD/CAM use and benefits