Development of microprocessor control of a model-making machine

A model-making machine has been developed as part of a project on computer-aided design and manufacture. In order to accurately machine the complex three-dimensional surfaces which are designed by these methods the machine has been provided with a microprocessor-based control system. This accepts data in a compact form on paper tape and controls the operation of three stepping motors which drive the machine axes. The microprocessor provides linear interpolation and other control functions. Few problems were experienced during development: the most recalcitrant being electrical noise. The microprocessor has proved a cheap, reliable and easily developed control system for the machine.