Figure: DNC Overview - Centralized Control of Multiple CNC Machines
This figure shows an overview of a DNC system with a Central Server in the center, connected to multiple CNC machines via a network, showing the flow of data (NC Programs/G-code) from the Server to the machines.
1. What is DNC (Distributed Numerical Control)?
DNC (short for Distributed Numerical Control ) is a decentralized numerical control system that was the foundation of early automated manufacturing and has evolved into a key component in today's Smart Factory.
Definition
DNC is a system that connects multiple CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machines to a central computer (Server) via a network to control and manage production programs (NC Program or G-code) from a central location in real time.
Working principle
The DNC system works on the principle of centralized data management and distributed transmission:
Central Repository: All NC programs (G-code) are stored in a central server, which acts as the main repository.
Real-time Data Transmission: When a CNC machine needs a program (e.g., when starting a new production run), the central computer transmits the NC program data (G-code) directly and instantly to the machine , possibly in a block-by-block fashion, to provide continuous input to the machine.
Elimination of Legacy Media: This system frees machines from the dependence on limited internal memory and eliminates the need for legacy storage media such as punch tape or floppy disks.
Difference from CNC: CNC is a computer system used to control a single machine, while DNC is the management and control of a network of multiple CNC machines simultaneously from a single point.
2. The importance of DNC to Smart Factory
DNC is not just an old technology, but a foundation that will help factories fully enter the Industry 4.0 or Smart Factory era.
⚙️ Connectivity & Automation
DNC is the foundation that allows machines to communicate and transfer data seamlessly. Having a robust network for transferring NC programs allows production to run continuously and be truly automated, without relying on human intervention to transmit files.
📈 Increased production efficiency (Increased Efficiency)
Reduce Downtime: Operators can instantly call up the correct NC program right from the machine, without having to manually search for or upload files, reducing downtime caused by file management processes.
Support for large programs: DNC solves the problem of insufficient memory for CNC machines with complex parts and large G-code programs, enabling the production of highly detailed parts.
🌐 Centralized Management
Control and Monitoring: DNC system allows to control all machines in the factory from one point and makes it easy to monitor the working status of the machines and overall equipment effectiveness ( OEE - Overall Equipment Effectiveness ) effectively.
3. NC File Version Control: The Heart of DNC in Smart Factory
The most important and central benefit of managing production programs in Smart Factory is the ability to tightly control NC files.
🔒 Accuracy and Version Control
"Always use the correct file": DNC System stores only the latest and approved version of the NC program, ensuring that every machine always uses the correct file for production, preventing errors caused by using old, trial or incomplete programs.
Traceability: DNC systems record every communication and change, enabling the traceability of which version of the NC program each part was produced, when, and by whom, which is essential in high-precision industries (e.g., automotive, aerospace, medical).
✏️ Fast program fixes and updates
When engineers make changes to NC programs at the central server, updates are instantly distributed to all machines in the network, enabling rapid, systematic process improvement and reducing the chance of manual file installation errors.
summarize
DNC (Distributed Numerical Control) is therefore not just a data transmission technology, but an integrated NC program management system that is crucial for the transition to a Smart Factory. It enables highly accurate manufacturing, efficient file version control , and increases competitiveness in the modern industrial world.
| Main system | DNC, DistributedNumericalControl, NCProgramManagement, CentralizedManagement, Server |
| technology | CNC, SmartFactory, Industry4.0, Automation, Connectivity, RealTimeControl |
| File management | VersionControl, FileTraceability, Version Control, Gcode, ProgramManagement |
| benefit | Reduce Downtime, Production Efficiency, OEE, Process Improvement, Program Management System |
| Thai language only | Decentralized numerical control system, smart factory, NC program management, manufacturing |
