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This research studies the development of a graphic-aided turning system combined a PC-Based CNC turning controller. On the CNC controller, an intelligent graphic user guided interface, a CAM computer-aided manufacturing planning system, cutting simulation and a cutting knowledge database are added. This system improve the convenience of CNC machine operation, lower the barriers for users to master; decrease the need for skilled CNC operators, increase the differentiation and intelligence of machine tools, and raise the value and gross margin of machine. Standard CNC controllers are the majority in the CNC machine tool market. They are generally operated by users who edit the NC codes directly on the controllers. While programming the NC codes in the factory, the users may have to leave for some part profile dimensions needed or related data. They are forced to go back and forth between the office and shop floor, resulting a lot of waste of time . Moreover, some manufacturers are using CAD/CAM software to edit NC codes in the offices, and then transmit the NC codes to the controllers for execution. The staff on the shop floor and the staff programming the NC codes belong to different units, creating difficulties in communication and programming modification. In the field of graphic-guided interfaces, there are some well-known manufacturers of controllers, such as MAZAK and FANUC, which are the leading providers of controllers. However, there is currently no system in Taiwan. In recent years, due to fierce global competitions, the differentiation strategy for machine tool products will be the direction in the future, and the intelligence of CNC controllers is a key point. This research develops the graphics-guided operations interface. Firstly let skillful factory workers and machinery processing experts find out the most commonly used graphs, secondly set the required graphics in the machining process templates and set conditions in advance on the controller, thirdly the CNC operators only need to fill in the simple work piece graphic data, and then the software can generate NC codes to manufacture products, so the technical staff can get rids of a scene of hustle and bustle. The result of this study is a more intuitive and simple-to-operate intelligent graphics-guided system. It can assist the workers on the factory production lines in editing NC codes, improve utilization rate of the machine, increase revenue and productivity of the enterprise, and bring benefits to the society.
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