THE IMPLEMENTATION OF AN AUTOMATIC TOOL SELECTION SYSTEM FOR CNC NIBBLING

A PC-based computer software program capable of automatic tool selection for CNC nibbling is briefly described. This paper focuses on the technological and heuristic rules governing the selection of punches for the nibbling process. In the present approach, a computer-based solution divides the selection process into two stages. In the first stage, a set of suitable punches for each profile is selected independently of other profiles by strictly considering geometry and avoidance of overcutting. In the second stage, based on the characteristics of an actual machine and the feasible punches selected in stage one, the punches are combined into a final set that can be accommodated within one tool set-up to manufacture the complete part.