Developing a STEP-NC Prototype based on ISO 14649 Paradigm

STEP-NC is the next generation CNC controller taking STEP-based data model as the interface scheme (or language) between CAM and CNC, and carrying out various intelligent functions. At the moment, efforts are being made worldwide to establish international standard for the new interface scheme formalized as ISO14649. As the new language is being established, increasing attention is being paid to the development of the new CNC. Korea STEP-NC is an integrated STEP-NC system taking ISO 14649 as an input, and carrying out various intelligent functions. It is composed of 5 modules: 1) Shop Floor Programming System (PosSFP), 2) Tool Path Generator (PosTPG), 3) Tool Path Viewer (PosTPV), 4) Man Machine Interface (PosMMI), and 5) CNC Kernel (PosCNC). Distinguished from other prototypes (of Europe and USA), the Korea STEP-NC is top-down designed, and bottom-up implemented comprehensively incorporating all the crucial components for realizing the full benefit of STEP-NC paradigm, without using any existing commercial CAD/CAM systems and CNC kernels. The Korea STEP-NC prototype was successfully demonstrated and evaluated in the ISO conventions Together with prototypes of Europe and USA, Korea STEP-NC will be used as a reference system fur the Triangular Conformance Test to be jointly carried out by ISO TC184 SC1, SC4, and IMS Project.