This is the outputting of key machine signals in order to be monitored by an external device

Circuit CnC can fit relay monitoring signals to most popular types of CNC machine/ CNC control system. Typically these signals would be: Cycle Start, Alarm and Power On. Ideally these signals would be outputted to a PC based monitoring system such as the type offered by Seiki Systems.

Our interfaces were originally engineered around their DNC Monitoring software which is already proven in the field as a beneficial production aid.

1 - Description

For each condition on each machine tool that is to be externally monitored (eg, cycle start) a normally open, voltage free contact must be installed. The Seiki Systems supplied Digital Monitoring Board (installed in the PC local to the machine tool) provides the 12 volts which is sent to each of these contacts via a cable. When the contact is energised (ie, by the machine tool) the Seiki Systems monitoring board receives the signal back and the change is recorded in the Seiki Systems Monitoring Software.

2 - Contact Requirements

1 off "normally open voltage free contact" is required for each condition to be monitored. The following is an example for cycle start:- Contact open (not energised, no 12 volt returned) = cycle off Contact closed (energised, 12 volt returned) = cycle on.

3 - Machine Tool Wiring and Connections

The contacts need to be wired to an accessible 9 (or 25) pin D. Way socket externally mounted on each machine (to enable the cable from the local PC to be connected). The Seiki Systems D.Way plug will have a 12 volt supply on a single pin. The recommended method of wiring within the machine tool cabinet is for the 12 volt supply to be "fanned out" to each contact and a single wire (signal returned) wired from each contact to the D.Way socket.

4 - Cable (Machine Tool to PC)

An unterminated cable is required, installed from the D.Way connector in each machine to the local PC Typical interface options for Machine Monitoring offered by Circuit CnC (To suit Seiki Systems)

• 1) "Basic" 3 relay interface: typically, Cycle start, Alarm and Power on.
• 2) "Level Up" 4 signal interface: typically, Cycle start, Alarm, Power on and Parts Count.
• 3) "Advanced" 4 signal interface: typically, Cycle start (incorporating Feedrate override, feed hold, program stop & single block), Alarm, Power on and Parts count.

Note: Not all signals on all machine types are possible, interface possibility is dependant on necessary electrical diagrams being available. Site survey and requirement discussion often advisable.