Implementación de un Sistema de Control para una Máquina de Control Numérico Computarizado (CNC) sobre un Sistema Embebido utilizando Herramientas de Software Libre

Abstract

This paper details the implementation of a Control System for a Computer Numerical Control machine using only free software and implementing it in an embedded system. As an experimental prototype for testing, a 3D printer has been used in replacement of CNC milling machines and lathes, due to similarities in structure and motors used. This project addressed two stagesin the CNC manufacturing process. First, a CAM tool (Computer-Aided Manufacturing) is used to generate a code detailing the toolpath to be followed by the machine, all based on a 3D CAD model (Computer-Aided Design). The second stage consists in interpreting the code using a CNC Control Software to generate the signals to be transmitted from the Embedded System engines to the machine through parallel port. A custom driver was also designed to take advantage of general-purpose pins (GPIO) as an alternative to the parallel port driver. Several tests were performed to ensure the exact configuration of the machine, including the monitoring of the output signals through the parallel port, G-code execution, and individual test to each stepper motor.