Anyone posting programs to a "cell controller"?

[DrewG]

James, or anyone else out there who uses a cell controller--I need to come up with a good tool identification system for my FTN(functional tool numbers). I had the choice of 4 or 8 digit tool codes, and I chose 4. Looking back, I kind of wished I went with the 8 digit codes. It would've been alot easier to come up with a system that made sense. I was hoping maybe someone here might have a good system that works real well. Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!!

[Guest CNC Apps Guy 1]

I'm using 4 digit right now. It works well for us right now. We'll see down the road how it works out.

 

Actually once I get Tool Life Management going I may desire to go with 8 digit tools. We'll see.

[DrewG]

James--What type of tool recognition are you using with the 4 digit codes. Im trying to come up with a system that will give the operator some type of familiarity with what the tool number means. Out at Makino they gave us a few example's like the following example:

 

1st Digit = Tool type(Endmill, Facemill, drill,etc.)

 

2nd Digit = material type for a tool(1=steel/2=aluminum, etc.)

 

3rd digit = carbide or steel, number of flute's, etc...

 

4th digit = ITN

 

I find it much easier employing an 8 digit code than the 4 digit that I chose. How are you working your FTN numbers???? Thanks!!