// ROBOTICS AND SMART FACTORIES TERM
Machining
The process of removing material from a workpiece using machine tools to achieve a desired shape, size, or finish.
TECHNICAL DEFINITION
Machining is a subtractive manufacturing process involving the removal of material from a workpiece using various machine tools and cutting processes, such as turning, milling, and drilling, to achieve a desired geometry, dimension, and surface finish.
BACKGROUND
The Fourth Industrial Revolution, also known as 4IR, Industry 4.0 or the Intelligence Age, is a neologism describing rapid technological advancement in the 21st century. It follows the Third Industrial Revolution. The term was popularized in 2016 by Klaus Schwab, the World Economic Forum founder and former executive chairman, who asserts that these developments represent a significant shift in industrial capitalism.
READ MORE ON WIKIPEDIASYNONYMS & ALIASES
- Metal cutting
- Material removal
- Fabrication
- Shaping
- CNC machining
USAGE NOTE
Essential for creating precise and functional components from raw materials across diverse industries.
DEVELOPERS
Organizations developing technology related to Machining.
A leading global manufacturer of CNC machine tools, including lathes, milling machines, and advanced 5-axis solutions. The company heavily invests in digitization through its CELOS platform, integrating machines into digital factory environments and developing automation solutions for Industry 5.0.
Develops a comprehensive suite of software for manufacturing. Its NX for Manufacturing and Sinumerik CNC controllers create a 'digital twin' of the entire machining process, enabling simulation, optimization, and closed-loop data feedback from the shop floor.
Provides leading Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM) software such as Fusion 360, PowerMill, and FeatureCAM. These platforms integrate design, simulation, and manufacturing to generate optimized toolpaths for complex CNC machining operations, often utilizing cloud computing for advanced analysis.
A major provider of factory automation, including CNC systems, industrial robots, and compact machining centers (ROBODRILL). They specialize in the seamless integration of robotics for automated machine tending and AI-driven functions within their controls to optimize cutting performance.
A world leader in cutting tools and tooling systems. They are at the forefront of 'Digital Machining' with their CoroPlus platform, which utilizes sensor-equipped tools and software to monitor processes in real-time, enabling process control and optimization.
Develops and sells a wide range of manufacturing technology, including the world's most popular CAM software, Mastercam. The company focuses on connecting design, production (CAM), and metrology (inspection) to create a data-driven feedback loop for smarter, more autonomous manufacturing.
A global manufacturer of advanced machine tools, known for its multi-tasking machines that combine several machining processes into one. Their 'iSMART Factory' concept and Smooth Ai CNC control leverage data and connectivity to enhance productivity and enable predictive maintenance.
A leading manufacturer of collaborative robots (cobots). Their technology is widely used to flexibly automate machine tending tasks, where cobots load and unload parts from CNC machines. This fosters human-robot collaboration, a key principle of Industry 5.0, making automation accessible and adaptable.