Von der Drehmaschine zum autarken Drehzentrum

The development of the turning machine is characterized by an increasing degree of automation, capacity and flexibility. This is particularly true for the turning machines which have become self-sufficient turning centres with driven tools, the possibility of using multiple cutting dunctions, higher speed frequencies and tool and workpiece changing systems. Ergonomic and easy to operate control systems are just as important as systems for simulation and optimization of the munufacturing processes prior to real machining. The state of the art which has been achieved in this field meanwhile is documented by the VDI-Z-data base of turning machines comprising data of over 500 CNC turning machines. Evaluations of this data base - some examples given in this paper show some of the possibilities - can lead to valuable results both for munfacturers and users.