// ROBOTICS AND SMART FACTORIES TERM
NC
An abbreviation for Numerical Control, a method of automating machine tools using programmed commands.
TECHNICAL DEFINITION
NC, or Numerical Control, is an automation method for machine tools where operations are controlled by precisely coded programmed commands, typically stored on punch cards or tape, dictating tool paths and machine functions without direct human intervention.
BACKGROUND
Computer numerical control (CNC) or CNC machining is the automated control of machine tools by a computer. It is an evolution of numerical control (NC), where machine tools are directly managed by data storage media such as punched cards or punched tape. Because CNC allows for easier programming, modification, and real-time adjustments, it has gradually replaced NC as computing costs declined.
READ MORE ON WIKIPEDIASYNONYMS & ALIASES
- Numerical control
- Programmed machining
- Automated machining
- Tape control
USAGE NOTE
The precursor to modern CNC technology, laying the groundwork for automated manufacturing processes.
DEVELOPERS
Organizations developing technology related to NC.
A global leader in factory automation, developing Computer Numerical Control (CNC) systems, robots, and machine tools. Their CNC controllers are one of the most widely used in the manufacturing industry.
A German multinational technology company whose Digital Industries division develops the SINUMERIK line of CNC controllers. They focus heavily on the digitalization of manufacturing, integrating NC technology with digital twins and the industrial internet of things (IIoT).
An American machine tool builder, one of the largest in the world. They design and manufacture a full line of CNC machines and develop their own proprietary Haas CNC control system which is integrated into their products.
A leading global manufacturer of machine tools. They produce advanced CNC lathes and milling machines and develop their own integrated control and software platform, CELOS, for holistic digital manufacturing.
A multinational software corporation that develops leading CAM (Computer-Aided Manufacturing) software such as Fusion 360, PowerMill, and FeatureCAM, which are used to generate the numerical control toolpaths that run CNC machines.
A German company specializing in precision measurement and control technology. They develop and manufacture highly-regarded TNC (Touch Numerical Control) systems used in demanding milling, drilling, and boring machine tools.
A Japanese machine tool builder known for its advanced multi-tasking machines. Mazak develops its own proprietary MAZATROL conversational CNC control, designed to simplify NC programming directly on the machine.
A Japanese machine tool manufacturer that is unique in that it develops and builds its own machines, drives, motors, encoders, and its own OSP CNC control system, providing a single-source solution for NC manufacturing.