NCV TVET: Computer-Integrated Manufacturing (CIM) - Key Vocabulary

Vocabulary flashcards cover CNC/CIM concepts, robot terminology, G/M codes, CAD/CAM data flow, and NC programming basics derived from the provided lecture notes.

CNC (Computer Numerical Control)

A machine tool controlled by a computer that reads NC/CNC program codes to move machine axes and operate the spindle and tooling along programmed paths.

CIM (Computer Integrated Manufacturing)

An integrated factory system where CAD/CAM, CNC, robotics, conveyors, and shop-floor data systems are linked to plan, control, and run manufacturing processes.

Three main CNC subsystems

Machine tool subsystem (structure, axes, spindle and drives), control subsystem (CNC controller and software), and drive/feedback subsystem (servomotors, encoders, drives and sensors).

Closed-loop control

A control strategy using feedback from sensors to compare actual performance with targets and adjust motion accordingly.

TCP (Tool Center Point)

The precise reference point on the cutting tool or end effector used for positioning relative to the workpiece.

End effector

The device at the end of a robotic arm that interacts with the environment (e.g., gripper, suction cup, welder).

Gripper

A robotic end effector designed to grasp and hold parts during handling.

Vacuum gripper

An end effector that uses suction to pick up and release flat or delicate parts such as metal sheets.

PTP (Point-to-Point)

Motion command moving from one programmed point to another; does not define a continuous path.

LIN (Linear Motion)

Motion command that moves the end effector along a straight-line path.

CIRC (Circular Motion)

Motion command that moves along a circular arc.

CONT (Continuous Motion)

Motion command for continuous movement around a programmed point without stopping at intermediate points.

JIT (Just-In-Time)

Production philosophy aiming to deliver materials and manufacture parts exactly when needed to minimize inventory.

TQM (Total Quality Management)

An organization-wide approach to improving quality and customer satisfaction through continuous improvement.

CAD/CAM

Computer-aided design creates product geometry; computer-aided manufacturing translates designs into machine instructions and tooling data.

CAD/CAM data flow

Data moves from CAD models to CAM toolpath generation, post-processing, and CNC execution.

Three geometric moulding types in CAD/CAM

Prismatic (extruded cross-sections), Rotational (revolved profiles), Swept/Lofted (complex shapes created by sweeping or lofting a profile along a path).

G-Codes

CNC programming codes that control movements and operations; examples include G01 (linear), G02 (circle CCW), G03 (circle CW), and plane selections G17/G18/G19.

M-Codes

Machine control codes for auxiliary functions; examples include M03 (spindle on CW), M04 (spindle on CCW), M05 (spindle off), M06 (tool change), M08 (flood coolant on), M09 (coolant off), M30 (end of program).

Systematic NC part programme development approach

A structured method to create NC programs: define objectives, establish work coordinates, select tools, generate toolpaths, simulate, verify, post-process, and document.

Workpiece zero / origin

The reference point on the workpiece from which all coordinates are measured; sets the machine’s zero position.

Basic structure of an NC milling program

Program includes a header with a program number, N-words, G-codes to define moves, coordinates (X, Y, Z), feed rate (F), tool changes, and ends with an end-of-program code (e.g., M30).