Digital tools for manufacturing sites developed by SMEs (1/2)

AI programming system born from a Japanese manufacturing site

Digital tools developed directly from Japan’s small factory floors are steadily emerging. ARM, a maker of automation equipment, has developed an artificial intelligence (AI) system that automatically generates machining programs. MATSUDA DENKI, a manufacturer of automotive switch parts, has created a system for monitoring equipment operations. Both tools are rooted in actual production environments, and their target users are also manufacturing sites.

This first part introduces ARM’s AI system.

Automatically reproducing the know-how of skilled machinists

ARM’s “ARMCODE1” is an AI system that automatically creates machining programs from CAD data.

For example, when CAD data for three parts is imported at once, ARMCODE1 can generate a machining center program for all three parts within minutes.

The system slices the 3D model into virtual layers at 0.2 mm intervals and automatically identifies machining features such as pockets, contours, and holes. It then selects the appropriate tools, sets machining parameters, and even generates cost estimates.

ARM was founded in 2006 by CEO Takayuki Hirayama. The company supplies automation equipment mainly to auto parts and electronics manufacturers. It owns a subsidiary called OSE in Akita City, Akita Prefecture, which specializes in metal machining.

OSE handles ultra-high-mix low-volume production, machining 60,000 types of parts annually with 1,000 different cutting tools.

ARM has built a database of machining know-how accumulated at OSE’s production floor over several years. The 3D model analysis technology used in ARMCODE1 was co-developed with Kobe University.

CEO Hirayama evaluates the system realistically: “We’re only halfway there. But the remaining half holds great potential for improvement.”

Market release set for September 2021

ARM will continue to develop ARMCODE1 with support from selected premium users. The product is set to launch in September 2021 at a price of 2.75 million yen including tax. Initial sales will be limited to 500 companies in order to collect user feedback for further refinement.

ARM also plans to develop future versions: “ARMCODE2” for lathes and “ARMCODE3” for grinding machines.

The second part of this article, to be published on May 11, will introduce MATSUDA DENKI’s equipment monitoring system “Genba Vision.”