ASCENTi-CNC Project Explanation

“ASCENTi-CNC” is a 5-year project initiated in 2007 at the IMS-Mechatronics Laboratory of University of California at Davis, aiming at the development of a new high-performance CNC controller and advancing the application of micro/ nano machining technology in industries.

The first goal is to overview the development results obtained in the past projects, TRUE-CNC, VIVID-CNC and OMNI-CNC and extract the generic models of the usable functions. These models should represent the core technologies for future high-performance machine tool systems.

Then, the models will be studied from the view point of feasibility of implementation using the most advanced emerging technologies and tools. The models may be implemented in the form of silicon based electronics hardware, realized in the form of intelligent software, or integrated into machine tool hardware design. The essential concept is to utilize consistently “Model Driven Design and Development (MDDD)” to be applied from idea creation to realization processes. The clustered structure of ASCENTi-CNC consists of three main parts as shown in the figure below.

The ASCENTi-CNC Project for the year 2007-2008 has been worked out by 18 research members with the strong support of industries such as Mori Seiki Co., Ltd., and Sodick Co., Ltd.

The on-going research topics include FPGA based High Performance CNC Controller, Intelligent Vision System for Secure and Autonomous Machining Operation, Development of New Hybrid Ultra-precision Machining Center, New Non-traditional Finishing, Micro-tool Fabrication, On-machine Collision Detection System, etc.

On-going Research Topics under ASCENTi-CNC

A Study on Development of FPGA Based Mechatronics Controller using Microcontroller as IP Core

Study the fundamental methodologies for design and implementation of a mechatronics control system based on FPGA device application for the ASCENTi- CNC project. Launch a pilot project of ASCENTi-CNC aimed towards a mechatronics controller training system with FPGA technology.

The Design Study of Automatic On-machine Vision System for Tool Modeling and Tool Wear Inspection

To study the design process of a machine vision system that can build model of the tool and inspect the tool damages.

Theoretical Study on the Dynamic Performance of the Spindle System Driven by Induction and Brushless DC Motor

The aim of this study is to clarify why the synchronous motor equipped spindle has more preferable characteristics than the induction motor equipped spindle for high performance cutting.

IMS-Integrated 3D Accuracy Measurement System

Develop an accurate and easy-to-use 3D volumetric accuracy measurement system.

A Study on Automatic On-machine 3D Modeling System of Cutter and Holder

To study the feasible methods for accurate 3D model reconstruction of cutting tools and develop the prototype system.

Study on Development and Implementation of FPGA based Mechatronics Control System for Education and Training

Launch a platform aimed towards a mechatronics control education and training system with FPGA technology.

Artistic Machining Initiatives of the IMS Laboratory

To teach lab members the basics of operating the various machine tools in the IMS Laboratory such as CNC mills, wire EDM, and die-sinker EDM. By utilizing computer based software, lab members will learn to generate solid model designs using CAD and then import their part into a CAM system to create tool paths for CNC machining. In addition, an undergraduate program will be created to involve students with machine tool technology. Further work will include machining advanced multi-axis parts for training/learning purposes.

Wedm Cutting Parameter Optimization Based on Roughing Productivity and Finishing Quality

Improve accuracy.

Study on The Micro Tooling System and Optimization of Micro/Nano Milling Processes

Improve accuracy, productivity and stability for micro/nano milling of hard and brittle materials by researches on micro tooling and micro/nano milling processes.