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continuous-path
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continuous-path

numerical control system
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Quick Summary

Continuous-path numerical control (NC) is a type of system used in manufacturing to control machine tools and other industrial processes. Unlike point-to-point systems, which move between fixed start and stop points, continuous-path systems are designed for contouring operations. This means they can perform complex movements like those required for milling machines, lathes, and flame-cutting machines.12

These systems are more complex to program than point-to-point systems and typically require the use of a computer to prepare the instructions. The data for these machines can be derived from part drawings and written in coded form, often using computer-aided design (CAD) programs.12

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2 Britannica Sources
  1. machine tool - Numerical control (NC)
  2. computer numerical control

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