Interactive Graphics: A New Tool for All N C Part Programmers

Part programming by interactive graphics is a technique of communicating with a computer by means of simple words and diagrams on a cathode ray tube. A basic mini-computer system is described and an example of geometry input and tool path generation is given. The toolpath of a production lathe tape and examples of future 3 and 5 axis milling applications are shown. The current benefits of the system are also outlined.