Adaptive Machining

Adaptive machining is the adaptation of NC programs to accommodate part to part variation enabling more stable and consistent production of complex or variable geometries. Repeat component manufacture requires a repeatable machine and process to ensure the product is machined to the same standard every time. With a repeatable machine, stable fixturing and consistent material supply condition a production process can be set and left to run with minimal operator input but this level of input stability is not always possible. Part to part variation of stock material may cause inconsistent loading that cannot be accommodated by the machining process.  Multi-axis toolpaths may not align when the part is approached from different orientations. The result is increased set up time per part, higher scrap rates or manual clean-up operations after machining.