Integration of Direct Data Processing in Industrial Machining

Okuma Europe is cooperating with industrial manufacturing companies to implement direct 3D programming on machine tool controls. The technical solution optimizes the digital infrastructure in machining operations through automated and standardized workflows.

Operational Challenges and Collaboration
The machining industry must efficiently structure complex machining processes involving a high variety of variants and small batch sizes. To increase process reliability and reduce the dependence on specialized programming personnel, Okuma Europe develops control systems for direct use in the manufacturing environment. Through collaboration between the machine manufacturer and plant operators, programming is shifted directly to the machine, minimizing the conventional interfaces between design and mechanical manufacturing.

Technical Solution and Responsibilities
Okuma Europe integrates the application software for 3D programming directly into the architecture of the OSP machine control. The system imports and processes 3D models in the standardized STEP file format and automatically identifies the relevant geometric features of the components. The software links the geometric data, selects the required cutting tools, and calculates suitable machining strategies. The system architecture also includes an automated collision check, which enables process simulation directly at the machine console before operators release the program for operation.

Deployment and Implementation
The deployment of the system is planned to start in April 2027 for vertical machining centers, with a later functional expansion to additional machine types envisioned. The technological integration and control sequences will be presented to professional users at the AMB trade fair in Stuttgart, taking place from September 15 to 19, 2026, at the exhibition center in Hall 10 at Booth E71. Once implemented, the control solution seamlessly integrates into end-to-end workflows within the mechanical infrastructure.

Applications and Use Cases
The system is used in component manufacturing, which includes, among other things, the machining of flat surfaces, pockets, and holes, as well as the production of grooves and edges. By visually highlighting machinable geometric areas on the control's screen, programming at the production level becomes accessible even to less experienced users. In doing so, the technology autonomously establishes the technical relationships between component geometry, machining strategy, and system verification.

Results or Expected Impacts
The reduction of manual data entry lowers the risk of errors and stabilizes process quality in machining. All programming and machining steps performed are exactly replicable, ensuring consistent component quality across different production cycles. System integration shortens setup and programming times directly at the equipment, allowing operators to increase their machine availability and more efficiently utilize their order capacity, especially under highly variable production requirements.

Edited by Maria Brueva, Induportals Editor – adapted by AI.

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