A Learning Platform for Computer Numerical Control (CNC) Laboratory

Abstract

Information Technology has played a major role in education. Rajamangala University of Technology, Isan Sakonakhon Campus, is committed to promoting a 21st Century education. For example, the university provides an environment that supports this development by integrating the use of Computer Numerical Control (CNC) in teaching practices. The model of CNC machines used in teaching and learning is outdated though, resulting in slow and ineffective performance. However, their efficiency can be improved. The researchers aimed to develop CNC management platforms that increased the efficiency of old-model CNC machines to be used in teaching and learning. The platforms developed consisted of (1) a Wi-Fi Distribution Numerical Control (DNC) G-code platform, (2) a Queueing G-code Monitoring platform, (3) a Setting CNC Monitoring platform, (4) a Safety Control platform, and (5) a Camera and Internet of Things (IoT) Monitoring platform which consisted of temperature, power and vibration sensors. Based on the results, the Wi-Fi Distribution Numerical Control (DNC) G-code program helps decrease the risk of data transmission errors. The speed of transmission increased to 256 kilobytes per second (kb/s). It was found that the developed platforms help improve the efficiency of CNC machining management when being used in teaching and learning. This study can be used as a model for a 21st Century classroom that assists students in optimizing their abilities to respond to the Thailand 4.0 Policy and prepare them for an Industry 4.0 job market.