Putting Flexible Controls in Users’ Hands

Heidenhain’s TNC7 combines touch-controls with powerful software that can swiftly convert model changes to code alterations.

Flexibility does not need to come at the price of usability, or so Heidenhain means to demonstrate at IMTS 2022. The company is showcasing both hardware and software at its main booth in the South Building, while also taking part in the Student Summit. The company is also launching new programs that make it easier for shop owners and school administrators to obtain Heidenhain equipment.

IMTS 2022 marks the first US demonstration of Heidenhain’s TNC7, which relies on touch controls and configurable, icon-based interfaces that can be arranged and organized as users see fit. This control enables users to edit drawings and programs on the fly: after highlighting a portion of CNC code and copying it to the graphical programming area, users can alter the graphical version’s dimensions and drag the edited version back the program area, where the edits will convert to changes in the CNC code.

Heidenhain will also demonstrate the MillPWR G² and TurnPWR from its Acu-Rite brand. These American-made controls can convert manual machines into CNC machines, according to Gisbert Ledvon, Heidenhain’s director of business development for machine tools. Ledvon hopes that the similarities in these new controls will enable a single user to simultaneously run milling and turning machines.

Beyond hardware, Heidenhain is demonstrating its digital manufacturing software. The Maintenance Manager program helps track and schedule preventative maintenance, while the StateMonitor program enables users to monitor machine efficiency from multiple locations. Heidenhain is partnering with several companies on the show floor to demonstrate its StateMonitor program, examining the efficiency of their machines with no requirement on whether they use a Heidenhain control.

Visitors can take advantage of discounts on these programs with the US version of Heidenhain’s TNC Club loyalty program, which is launching during the show. A free, basic membership provides some control software, while a paid premium membership offers discounts on additional Heidenhain products, as well as steep discounts on training, productivity improvement and consulting services. To celebrate the US launch, Heidenhain is offering launch specials on the premium TNC Club membership. The company is also launching its HESP program, the Heidenhain Educational Support Program. This program provides discounts and training tools for schools.

At the Student Summit, Heidenhain will hold an interactive exhibition of the TNC7, allowing guests to use the touch screen to make paths. Live machining demonstrations will result in the production of fidget spinners for younger attendees, and the company also plans to hold a drawing for student visitors, offering a backpack as a prize.