A high-level language for numerically controlled cutting machines used in shipyards

• Published in: Journal of the Chinese Institute of Engineers 1978-01, Vol.1 (1), p.109-117
• Main Authors: Chen, Wen-Tsuen, Cheng, Kuo-Young, Li, Sy-Teh
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• ISSN: 0253-3839; 2158-7299
• DOI: 10.1080/02533839.1978.9676606

Numerically controlled (N/C) flame cutting machines have been extensively used in modern shipyards to cut steel plate according to a given contour. This paper presents a geometry description language CSBL-1.0 to describe contours of shipbody parts. Its language processor is designed to interpret part programs in this language to generate N/C code for controlling the cutting machines. The part programmers coding in this language can essentially mimic the procedure of contour drawing. It is easy to learn and easy to use. Furthermore, part programs in this language are more comprehensive than the corresponding N/C numerical codes and hence they can be easily debugged and maintained. Also, coding in this language can essentially be relieved from mostly tedious and error-prone geometrical calculations, which are rendered to the language processor. Techniques in automating these calculations are presented. Finally, some possible future extensions are discussed. This language, which has been field-tested in China Shipbuilding Co., has shown to be sufficient and satisfactory in meeting current needs. Although the language is developed solely for shipbuilding purpose, it can find applications in other fields.