When the iTNC 530 was introduced a few years back, it was launched as the latest and fastest TNC from Heidenhain ever. Since then there have been many changes and enhancements to this product, which have taken it from a single control to a full product range.
Now capable up to 12 axes, the iTNC 530's flexible hardware structure allows for it to be used in a wide variety of applications. At the heart of the system are four main components: the MC -- machine controller; CC -- computer controller; hard drive; and system identification key (SIK). The various combinations allow for control systems suitable for use as simple 3-axis machines (MC 420/CC 422) up to multiaxis high-speed linear motor machines (MC 422/CC 424).
The entire TNC system has now been ported onto a PC-based processor. This has increased the speed capabilities, and allowed for easier network connectivity and the introduction of PC-based simulation shareware (download at www.heidenhain.com/cnc_menu.html#) and full offline programming software.
Also available is a dual-processor variant offering the standard HEROS (Heidenhain Real-time Operating System) control interface, and Windows 2000 operating system on a separate processor for non-machine applications. As always, G-code and the Heidenhain conversational programming interface are standard, and backward compatibility is ensured with older TNC controls.
In September, Heidenhain introduced a new program input format called smart.NC. This user interface is intended for both the NC beginner and the conversational expert, and guides the user in a self-explanatory and intuitive way through the complete NC programming tasks by using straightforward forms. All of this innovation means the TNC 400 series of controls, for years the Heidenhain standard control platform, will see its retirement at the beginning of 2005. As with all other Heidenhain products, support will remain in place for this platform.
Heidenhain's drive/motor offerings have also been expanding rapidly. Servo motors, with either incremental or absolute (EnDat) speed/position feedback ranging from 1.5-62.5 Nm, and spindle motors, with standard or high-speed bearings ranging up to 24 kW (32 hp), are now available. Heidenhain also has both regenerative and nonregenerative compact inverter systems (a number of which have North American-compatible input voltage) capable of controlling 4 axes plus spindles, all the way up to modular drives with 90 A spindle capability. And built-in diagnostics simplify commissioning and troubleshooting on these systems. In the rare case where these motor/drive combinations are insufficient, Heidenhain has shared its PWM interface with a number of popular motor/drive manufacturers, allowing for easy connectivity.
Other recent enhancements to the product series include:
- TS 640 infrared touch probe system featuring activation via infrared transmission (no more shank switch), integrated blower unit, and extended battery life and transmission range.
- HR 420 remote handwheel with integrated display, new ergonomic design, and more enhanced customizable keys
- TE 530 keyboard with integrated touchpad and user keys for windows functionality
- PROFIBUS interface pcb for control I/O
- PL 510 modular I/O expansion system
All of these options are available to customize any application. Once set up, the conversational prompts in this TNC make it an overall powerful, yet easy-to-use control system.
