Tool management
Processing a part with a CNC (computer numerically controlled) machining operation requires several tool assemblies that are documented in a list.
The components differentiate between internal material flow and purchasing goods from external suppliers (stock control).
The logistics of components includes primarily inventory management, requirements planning monitoring of minimum stock levels.
In-house logistics is mainly interested in where a wanted component currently is, and at what cost center it is consumed.
This method only consumes wear parts (cutting), the other components (holders, clamping devices) are moved between toolroom, storage places and machine tool.
Existing knowledge is made generally available and the guidelines stated in the master data are noticed.
Applications either fall back on the tool management database, or the data will be replaced by the interfaces.
Especially in CNC manufacturing where several persons are involved in the production process, integration avoids faults, delays and duplicate data recording.
Additionally all internal stock movements of tool components for the costing can be handed to the ERP system with the integration.
CAM systems generate the G-Code commands (NC program) for the CNC machine.
Besides conventional tool cabinets, storage systems that provide the operator with the shelf containing the desired product are often used.
The removal is then performed on the storage system and the inventory change is transmitted to tool management.
The integration of tool management with the pre-setters takes place in the exchange format of the respective equipment manufacturers and includes graphics and information about the measurement method.
Normally, STL and STEP format are offered and axis position is chosen according to the application on the machine.
The bottom-line motivation for tool management, as with all manufacturing technologies, is greater return on investment through higher efficiency.
This is achieved as follows: Rising demands in design and quality, combined with time and cost pressures, force companies to regularly invest in more efficient equipment and procedures.
Newly purchased equipment is supplied with specific usage information (i.e. cutting data with tools).
This information is found in supplier specific documentation (i.e. the maximum allowed diameter of a fine boring tool).
(i.e. the exact adjusted diameter must be made known to the NC programming and tool store departments).
Processed company information is then made available as part data instructions (i.e. appropriate cutting values for a particular tools usage with a specified material) and must be managed and integrated within workflows to prevent production capacity loss or shortening tool life.
Such data can be utilized by other software applications (i.e. CAM-Systems, tool pre-setters, shop floor logistics).
The importance of exchanging information between operational areas varies according to the type of company.
Generally it can be said that missing or unclear information is the source of errors that cost capacity and generate delays and inefficient workflow.
Manual interfaces and information passed by word of mouth are potential error sources and obstacles.
