Compact VMC Eases Part Location for Faster Setups

The Datron Neo is a compact milling machine with a footprint of 27.5" × 51". Inside is an integrated camera/probe combination designed to shorten the time-consuming task of setting up jobs. The camera shows the machining table below and the operator can select the workpiece simply by tracing the area on the touchscreen where the workpiece is displayed. Once the part is located, and the machining parameters are set, any irregularity is automatically compensated for in the software. This capability virtually eliminates part rejection due to improper setup, the company claims. An on-board CAM Assistant guides the operator through the program and tool management on an interface that looks and feels like smartphone. All of these tools combine to help even a novice operator create a machined part in four steps.

The Neo fits through a standard doorway and can be installed within a few hours, typically. It is ideal for rapid prototyping and short-run manufacturing, capable of milling a variety of materials ranging in size to 20" × 16.5" × 9" in size with its 40,000-rpm spindle and 24-station automatic toolchanger.