Machine tool controller and part inspection monitor

A machine tool controller and part inspection monitor for controlling the cutting of parts by a machine tool and producing a readout denoting deviations of the actual cutting path from the desired path beyond a predetermined tolerance, said machine tool controller and part inspection monitor comprising:

• (A) position sensors for continuously sensing the relative position of a part to be cut and a cutter along predetermined axes and continuously producing axes position signals related thereto;
• (B) centerline signal producing means for producing centerline signals that define the centerline of the cutting path of travel to be followed by said cutter as a part is being cut;
• (C) positioning means for controlling the relative position of said part and said cutter in response to position command signals;
• and,
• (D) data processing means coupled to said position sensors, said centerline signal producing means and said positioning means for:
• (1) receiving said axes position signal;
• (2) receiving said centerline signals;
• (3) continuously determining the transfer function of said machine tool;
• (4) using said continuously determined transfer function and said centerling signals to produce position command signals adapted to cause said relative position of said cutter and said part to follow the centerline of the cutting path of travel defined by said centerline signals;
• (5) applying said position command signals to said positioning means for controlling the operation of said positioning means such that the relative position of said cutter and said part follow the centerline of the cutting path of travel defined by said centerline signals;
• and,
• (6) determining when the relative position of said cutter and said part deviates from said centerline of the cutting path of travel defined by said centerline signals beyond a predetermined amount and storing for readout data related to said deviations.