AUTOMATICALLY PROGRAMMED TOOLS Meaning and
Definition
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Automatically Programmed Tools (APT) refers to a computer language and programming system commonly used in the manufacturing industry for controlling machine tools and automating the production process. APT was developed in the late 1950s and early 1960s by a team led by Douglas T. Ross at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).
In APT, a series of coded instructions are created to control the behavior of machine tools, such as lathes, milling machines, and drilling machines. These instructions, written in a standardized language, allow for the efficient and precise machining of parts and components. The APT language includes commands for defining tool paths, specifying cutting speeds and feeds, and controlling other parameters of the machining process.
One of the key features of APT is its ability to automatically generate the tool paths based on mathematical models or geometric descriptions of the desired part. This makes APT a valuable tool in computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) systems, as it enables the translation of design specifications into machine instructions without the need for manual programming. By automating the programming process, APT reduces the time and effort required to produce complex parts, while also increasing accuracy and repeatability.
In summary, Automatically Programmed Tools (APT) is a programming system and language specifically designed for controlling machine tools in the manufacturing industry. It enables the automation of machine instructions and the precise machining of parts, contributing to increased efficiency and accuracy in production processes.
