Siemens Updates CNC Control System for Enhanced Digitization

Photo Credit: Siemens

Siemens is expanding its Sinumerik One “digital native” CNC. The new system software, Sinumerik V6.20, features new technology functions that are said to simplify machine tool operation, reduce machine wear and increase manufacturing productivity.  The Sinumerik control system can be used for digital transformation in a highly productive, flexible and modular way.

With the new Y-turning function, Sinumerik One can be used for machines that turn from the Y-axis, enabling up to 3X the feed rate. New tool types were created for this purpose and all turning functionalities and cycles were adapted for these tools.

The Advanced Rapid Movement function is also one of the innovations in this new technology. It enables time-optimized movement, which means faster movements take place between machining operations. The part program does not require a change. Overall, machining can be up to 10% faster, according to Siemens. The function can be implemented in tandem with the machine builder.

With Reduced Dynamic Mode, there is now a CNC function that actually reduces wear on the machine and increases its availability. The Numerical Control Kernel (NCK) function enables the machine tool builder to automatically transfer the machine to reduced operation if the axis becomes too warm. When the temp stabilizes, the machine can be returned to full load. In this way, the Reduced Dynamic Mode enables individual operation of machines in motion.

Additionally, hardware innovations for the Sinumerik One are designed to simplify operation. The new keyboards and machine control panels (MCPs) are now available from 15" to 24" to match the human-machine interface (HMI) design — and Simatic Industrial Thin Clients (ITCs) and industrial PCs are said to offer increased performance and a resolution up to 1920 × 1080 pixels.

The new MCPs are also integrated in the digital twin of Sinumerik One (Create and Run MyVirtual Machine), so that the appearance and operation correspond to the real CNC in every respect. In addition, the digital twin of Sinumerik One has been equipped with new features that simplify engineering and work preparation. The 3D option offers support for a second channel, and each tool can be assigned an individual color, so that the ablated surfaces are color-coded, depending on the tool used. The integration of the STEP format is an important new feature, especially for complex geometries of the clamping in a turning operation. Collision detection now also offers extensive functionalities such as the display of all collided bodies, NC program line and more, so the cause of collisions can be quickly investigated and fixed.

With Sinumerik One, Siemens offers CNC technology that easily creates and works with digital twins of machine tools. Work preparation and engineering departments can also benefit from the digital twin. The user interface for Sinumerik One is said to enable convenient, flexible and efficient operation of machine tools across all machining technologies.