Digitizing CNC Machines for Sustainable Manufacturing

This chapter proposes an innovative method for digitizing computer numerical control (CNC) machines. This research promotes the transformation from traditional factories to smart factories that serve sustainable manufacturing. The chapter provides a detailed digitization process of three CNC machines in the pilot phase and leverages the results to connect seven CNC machines currently in operation at a company. During the pilot phase, current sensors, human–machine interface (HMI) screens, and relays receiving signals from the CNC machine light towers were added to each machine. In addition, a control box containing a central programmable logic controller (PLC) was developed to collect data and send control signals to the HMIs. A computer server was utilized to send control signals, read data from the PLC, and display critical values on a central dashboard. Based on the success of the pilot phase, a real project with several upgrades was implemented at a manufacturing company. The most significant upgrade focused on production management, which includes labor time tracking, machine operation monitoring, drawing management, and production data statistics by machine groups and other related features. The successful digitization of CNC machines enables the company to rapidly transition from traditional manufacturing to smart manufacturing with more efficient and sustainable production. This research is an essential step in the company’s innovation journey that aligns with Industry 4.0 by shifting human-based production to data and equipment-driven processes.