MAMTEC Representative Shinji Shimizu (Professor Emeritus at Sophia University)

　This is a tour guide for students who are observing state-of-the-art machine tools for the first time, and for visitors who have only a basic knowledge of machine tools, to comfortably see all the attractions of JIMTOF 2016.

　There are many brand-new machine tools being displayed, with some companies demonstrating their machines in action. First of all, try to pay attention to what is required for machining. As the illustration shows, the fundamental elements required are computer numeric control (CNC) devices and their peripheral equipment which control machine units and machines, tools for machining, as well as retention devices to firmly hold workpieces or jigs. Products (workpieces: shape, dimensions, precision and materials) are machined using these elements. Cutting oil (coolant) is supplied to the machining point (machining process), chips are disposed, and cutting resistance, heat and vibrations are generated that cannot be seen.

　To produce high-precision products, it is necessary to optimize the state of these factors in the machining process. Also, various technologies should be reflected in the design of the machine components including the column, bed, spindle head and table ("main construction elements") and the "joints" between the main construction elements, as well as the "driving mechanisms" which drive the table and the spindle operating in the main construction elements. I recommend you closely observe these technologies. Why not check the panels by the side of the machines to see what kind of new technologies have been included in the construction of the main unit, construction materials, bearings and guides to prevent deformation exceeding the permitted threshold even if a force is applied?

　On the other hand, it is also interesting to look to see what type of controllers, automatic tool changers, automatic workpiece changers, jigs and workpiece magazines are installed; how the tool and workpiece are retained, and what kind of measurements are taken when machining. Also, you will likely develop a further interest when looking at what area of the manufacturing industry the machine was developed for, and for what kind of shape, size and material of the workpiece the machine is suited. First, take a look at one machine tool, and then you'll also become aware of the points to look for in other machine tools.

　See the map above. I will guide you about where to go.

　Go to the East Halls to see machine tools. You can see many new machine tools there including NC lathes, turning centers (TC), machining centers (MC), boring machines, drilling machines, grinding machines, surface finishing machines (honing machines, wrapping machines, polishing equipment, etc), electrical discharge machines, gear cutting machines (hobbing machines, etc), laser machines, ultrasonic machines, and water-jet machines. NC lathes, TCs and MCs are displayed in East Halls 1 through 6. Grinding machines are mainly displayed in East Halls 1, 2 and 3. In East Halls 1, 2 and 3, importers are displaying European machine tools, and so visitors also have the chance to see overseas machine tools. Go to East Halls 4, 5 and 6 to see CNC devices and computer assisted design and manufacturing (CAD/CAM) technologies. There you can also see robots, expected to perform in combination with machine tools.

　Go to East Hall 7 to check the exhibitions of overseas manufacturers. You can see various machine tools including cutting and grinding tools, as well as manufacturing-related devices by a large number of overseas manufacturers, ranging from Germany, Switzerland, America, Taiwan, China and South Korea.

　Go to West Hall 1 to see cutting tools. Go to West Hall 2 to see tool retainers (tool holders and chucks), workpiece retainers (workpiece mounts and chucks) as well as bearings, ball screws and rolling guides. (West Halls 1 and 2 are located on the 1F of the West Exhibition Building.) Go to West Hall 3 to see various measuring devices and detectors. Go to West Hall 4 to see grinding wheels, gears included in the machine tools and manufacturing-related devices. (West Halls 3 and 4 are located on the 4F of the West Exhibition Building.)

　I recommend all students observing machine tools for the first time to start from the East Halls. The map shows you where you can get various information. Enjoy JIMTOF 2016!