1. VirtualCNC Training Lab
TM
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The Virtual CNC Training Lab
TM
is a computer numeric control (CNC) milling machine
training simulator that enables engineering educators to provide cost efficient and effective
CNC milling training. Using the latest modeling techniques and computer technologies, this
training simulator provides realistic virtual training from machine setup to operation, and the
verification and simulation of part programs for 3-axis CNC milling machine.
Why Virtual Training
Training of CNC machinists using virtual training is more effective and efficient as students
would be able to familiarize themselves with the machine set up, operation and machining
processes on the computer before working on the actual machine tools. Using simulation, it
is now possible to implement scenario based training for CNC machinists at a reasonable
cost and time. With this enhanced training, students are better equipped to meet the
requirements of their new work place. Finally, training is also safer as the risk of dangerous
and expensive collisions can be eliminated.
Benefits for training institutions
 Increase training quality by:
o allowing scenario based training without the need for expensive machine tools,
costly tooling and consumables
o enhancing discovery and understanding of the manufacturing models through
guided experiments
o enhancing creativity in optimizing the machining process
o maximizing individual potential through the customization of their training
needs
 Save money with:
o lowered capital investment in machine tool as lesser training time is required
on the actual machine tool
o reduced training costs as machining projects can be done on the computer
with no tooling costs and material
 Reduce training time by:
o eliminating waiting time for the machine tool
o reducing the machine set up, operation and machining time
o reducing the number of prove outs
 Improve training safety by:
o eliminating risk of dangerous and costly collisions due to human errors
Benefits for companies
 Increase productivity by:
o detecting NC program errors thereby reducing material scrap and overall cost
o reducing prove outs and saving machine tool, operator and part programming
time
 Reduce training cost by:
o conducting training offline with no machine tool downtime
 Improve safety by:
o eliminating risk of dangerous and costly collisions due to human errors

2. Geometry Engine
Virtual CNC Training LabTM uses a 3-dimensional precise unified geometrical model that
allows accurate simulation of multi-axes and multi-processes machining.
Features
 Realistic machine set up simulation to:
o secure and align work holding devices/fixture and work piece
o set up tooling and cutters from a standard library
o set X, Y and Z zero coordinate
o input tool compensation and work offset
o download NC program
o perform trial run to proof out the machine set up and NC program
 Realistic machine control panel (generic) simulation to:
o perform manual operation, such as machine zero return, jog and handle axis
positioning, coolant on/off, spindle on/off, adjust feed and speed override, etc
o input and edit ISO program instruction codes using Manual Data Input (MDI)
mode
o execute the loaded part program automatically
o interrupt automatic operation to verify work piece for undercut and gouging
 Realistic machine simulation to:
o perform real time cutting under actual set up environment with cutting sounds
and coolant
o perform multiple set up machining on single work piece
o detect machine set up errors
o detect collision of cutter and tool holder
o detect cutter breakage due to program and operation errors
o save machined part for subsequent machining operations
 Accurate NC verification to:
o detect part program errors
o detect gouges and leftover material
o ensure machined part conforms with design specifications
 Standard visualization toolkit allows:
o dynamic zoom, pan, fit, rotation and move
o standard views and multiple windows capabilities
o selective viewing of the machine body, work holding devices and work piece
Project Partner
Singapore Institute of Manufacturing Technology
System requirements
Windows XP
 Intel Pentium® IV
 1 GB RAM
 64MB RAM graphics card