Describing a Work System CNC MACHINING By Bill Carver

The Purpose  The purpose of CNC Machining, is the cutting of materials into a specific form, designated from a particular data set.  This procedure allows the shaping of different materials without using a casting process.  The purpose of machining is to minimize human effort, and increase accuracy, by using computer and servo technology.

The Inputs  The stock, which could be any malleable martial that can be cut by machining.

The Outputs  The results from the process would be the actual piece of machined material produced from the CNC machine.

Environment  The environment of this particular process, would be limited to temperature, and cleanliness.  Temperature plays a specific role due to the computer’s sensitivity to extreme hot and cold.  Cleanliness would be required due to the high precision nature of the machine, not to mention the computer control system.

Qualifications  The CNC programmer/operator must be able to take command of a CNC programming system that is capable of directing the machine to machine a particular piece of stock.  Humans are also required to prepare the machine for machining a particular job.  Humans do not play a role in the actual machining process.

Physical Catalysts  A direct catalyst would be the data set used to direct the machine, these are the commands that are given to the machine in order to make it function; Another catalyst would be energy itself, without this the machine would not have power to function; Tools to perform stock mounting operations, that will be performed by the human operator.  The cutting tools or end mills that allow the machine to form the metal would also play a role as a catalyst.

Sequence  A program for the machine is generated.  The machine is set with block and cutting tools.  Program is activated, and begins cutting.  Program finishes, material machining is complete.