Caron Engineering highlights its latest technologies for automation, cycle time reduction, unmanned operations as well as total process monitoring and control for tool loading, offset adjustment and more. Using ToolConnect, TMAC, DTect-IT, MiConnect, AutoComp and a Blum LC50 Digilog outfitted on a Tsugami TMA8 live-cutting demo, the company showcases a fully automated (lights-out) manufacturing process.

ToolConnect automates the tool loading process by reading RFID tags and 2D printed barcodes loaded with machine presets and updates the tool information directly to the CNC control, preventing an incorrect tool from being loaded. AutoComp and MiConnect control the vision gauge and interactions with the CNC control, calculating and compensating for offsets. Blum’s Digilog laser measures the rotating tools on the machine, while DTect-It software extracts the data to determine dimensional anomalies. All the while, TMAC measures tool wear and detects breakage during the cutting process in real time, while also monitoring spindle and tool vibration.

These products can interface with many standard CNC machine tools on the market, are customizable for various applications, and can accommodate all types of cutting. These programs can be used on their own, or combined to run a fully automated machining operation.