The familiar user interface found on smartphones and tablets has been incorporated into the next-generation mid-range CNC system available from Heidenhain (GB) Ltd (www.heidenhaingb.com) (Hall 25, Stand D48), which is based in Burgess Hill. Operation of the TNC 620 is now via graphics on a large touch-screen.

This contouring CNC for prismatic machining and probing is a four-axis control as standard, but it can be extended to five-axis simultaneous operation.

In common with previous versions (with which the new unit is compatible), contour fidelity, high speed and high surface finish are said to be obtained.

The ‘context-sensitive’ intuitive user interface shows the elements that an operator needs during all working steps.

Heidenhain’s TNC 620 has combined its familiar look and functionality with modern operating modes that use tapping, swiping and dragging motions on the screen.

Easier to operate than previous control versions, the interface simplifies data entry, location and manipulation, resulting in tangible increases in productivity.

An operator can move graphics directly on-screen, zoom in or out, and move or rotate a graphic. A pop-up keyboard appears for inputting text.

Meanwhile, swiping motions allow ‘kinetic scrolling’ at an operator-controllable speed.

A slow, brief flick results in scrolling over a few lines, whereas a longer, rapid swipe scrolls over many lines and a short tap stops the movement. Searching through long lists, programs and tables to find an NC block or tool, for example, is therefore very quick.

The new MC 8410 main computer in the TNC 620 with touch-screen technology complements the existing MC 7410 and MC 7420 units.

For the machine builder, the newly designed MB 721 operator panel can be supplied with dual-channel feedback for safety-critical applications, while three optional elements can be assigned to additional keys, key switches or a USB connection.