An Intelligent Vacuum Fixture Controlled by Built-in PLC in CNC System

Abstract

An intelligent vacuum adsorption fixture was presented, which can automatically detect the loading of workpiece by means of proximity switches. In addition, it can be called into a NC program by an M code developed based on the communication between the computer numerical controller (CNC) and programmable logic controller. Firstly, the conceptual design of the intelligent fixture was put forward. Secondly, the control method of the intelligent fixture was investigated to ingrate it with the CNC machine tool. Thirdly, the intelligent fixture prototype was established on the platform of Mitsubishi M64 CNC system. Then the clamping ability was estimated from two aspects: statics analysis and dynamic simulation. Furthermore, a milling experiment of a thin plate held by the intelligent vacuum fixture prototype was performed. Experimental results indicated the developed fixture could work well to facilitate the workpiece loading process.

Keywords

• Programmable logic controller
• Fixture
• Numerical control system
• Miscellaneous function
• Clamping ability.