See How A Thermwood Smart Router Can Save You Money

Posted by Duane Marrett on Wed, Mar 15, 2017

Tags: Thermwood, CNC Routers, smart-router, Support, save money on cnc router, Cut Ready, Cut Center, QCore, Service, virtual service

Thermwood Smart Routers Save You Money!Most people looking at a router for the first time do not realize that the vast majority of their cost will not be in running the router, but actually in EVERYTHING ELSE required to run the router (preparation, programming, hold down, operating procedures and error handling are the main cost areas).

Ordinary routers do not focus on these areas. They simply rely on the user to take care of them and usually it is not that easy.  Thermwood smart routers address these areas in a big way. They focus on the areas where you spend the most money because that’s where you can make the most money.

Just like a smart phone does more than simply make phone calls, a Thermwood smart router does much more than just route parts. The “more” in a smart router saves material and labor and makes it very easy to use. A smart router may cost a bit more, but is substantially more profitable, making it a much better overall investment. 


Thermwood Smart Router Advantages:

Smart Routers Save Material

  • Thermwood Smart Routers - Your Best InvestmentEasily use material left from the last job
  • Recover from broken tools without scrapping material
  • Smart nesting keeps smaller parts from moving and being scrapped
  • Nest around defects to use damaged or flawed material
  • Save the sheet if parts start moving
  • Warns you if spoilboard needs resurfacing
  • Fly cut spoilboard in the middle of a job
  • Machine back operations on the full sheet
  • Alerts you when running critical parts

Smart Routers Save Labor

  • Smart routers are easier to program
  • Recut parts without programming
  • Easily recover from problems without programming
  • Run at the machine without programming each job
  • During file selection, images help avoid errors
  • Machine operator can safely do other jobs
  • Avoid processing parts one at a time

Smart Routers are Easy to Use

  • Run from virtually any software or any program
  • The same file works on any smart router regardless of size or configuration
  • Smart routers easily process material whose thickness varies from sheet to sheet
  • Smart routers guide you step by step
  • Uses smart labels to make parts easy to sort
  • Assembly marks make parts easy to assemble
  • Smart tooling avoids tooling errors
  • Smart routers manage tooling for you
  • Smart routers machine a profile edge without a profile tool

Smart Routers are Easy to Maintain and Service

  • Automatically manages routine maintenance
  • Helps you recover from errors quickly and easily
  • Maintenance and operating manuals are right on the screen
  • Watch how-to videos for service
  • 3D CAD drawings identify every part quickly and easily
  • Smart routers can be serviced over the internet
  • Smart routers are updated online

Other Differences

  • Smart routers are not limited by memory
  • Smart routers can be monitored and managed with your smartphone or tablet
  • Smart routers use a large touch screen like other modern devices


Request More Information from Thermwood 

Thermwood CNC Mobile App now supports automatic text and email alerts

Posted by Duane Marrett on Mon, Apr 13, 2015

Tags: Thermwood, CNC Router, smart-router, QCore, CNC Mobile App, Monitoring, Advanced Support

The free Thermwood CNC Mobile app is intended to allow Thermwood Machine users to track the operation of their Thermwood CNC router(s) and the programs that run on them from anywhere by using their cell phone, PC or other mobile device.

The new Automatic Alert addition allows the user to instruct the machine to automatically email or text them when certain events occur.

To accomplish this, the user simply enters their email address or phone number, chooses the machine(s) to monitor and select the events they want to automatically receive alerts about. The alerts are easily customizable and adjustable, making it simple to set up and receive more or less information automatically.

Thermwood CNC Mobile App Automatic Alerts


Thermwood CNC Mobile App - Machine Listing DisplayThe Thermwood CNC Mobile app allows users to monitor many aspects of their Thermwood smart-router(s) and QCore Super Controller including programs, events, cycle times, scheduled maintenance and much more from just about anywhere. This app permits the user to obtain the following information on a smart-phone, tablet or PC:

  • A listing of every machine they own (includes an optional user customizable nickname)

  • The current state (ready, running or in e-stop)

  • The current Feed Override setting

  • The current program loaded and or running

  • A listing of all current and past part programs loaded/ran in chronological order with extensions

  • A listing of machine events during each part program in chronological order

  • A listing of the cycle time of every part program ran in chronological order

  • A listing of completion or interrupt times in each part program ran in chronological order

  • All machine events in chronological order with filtering

  • Monitor scheduled maintenance with a cycle time countdown as well as a graphical countdown progress bar

  • A time stamp listing of all previous maintenance performed

  • The ability to request a service phone call from a Thermwood Support Technician right from your device.

  • The ability to download the data from any of your Thermwood CNC Routers in either Excel (XLS) or XML format.

Note: While this app is free to install, only machines enrolled in Thermwood’s Advanced Support program or subscribed to Virtual Service will deliver the monitoring service. The machine also requires QCore control software version 8.5.5 or newer. A demo portion of the app is available to observe the features.


Download Your Thermwood CNC Mobile App Machine Data

Now you can download the data from any of your Thermwood CNC Routers in either Excel (XLS) or XML format. You can also choose the date range you wish to download.

Note: You must be a current Advanced Support or Virtual Service Customer to access your data.

Download Your Thermwood CNC Mobile App Data

 


Available on the App Store

Available on Google Play

Also available on any browser here: https://server.thermwood.com/thmmobileapp


About the Thermwod CNC Mobile App



Thermwood CNC Mobile App - Maintenance Display

Thermwood CNC Mobile App - Machine Display

Thermwood CNC Mobile App - Program View

Thermwood CNC Mobile App - Main Screen


Request a Consultation

Please click the "Request a Consultation" link above or give us a call at 1-800-533-6901 and we will sit down and show you how all this happens, in detail.

Thermwood Virtual Service - Help in an Instant

Posted by Duane Marrett on Tue, Nov 18, 2014

Tags: Thermwood, QCore, SuperControl, Service, virtual service


What is Virtual Service?

Virtual Service is a useful system provided for members of Thermwood's Advanced Support Program and owners of the Cut Ready Cut Center.  Virtual Service is a powerful audio and video link, using an internet connection, between the customer's SuperControl (QCore or Gen2) and the Thermwood service department that is used for helping prevent costly service trips and minimizing possible down time.

How Does it Work?

Thermwood Virtual ServiceVirtual Service is a "one way service" which can only be initiated from the customer's control.  The customer simply selects the "Connect to Virtual Service" button on their control, and within a short period of time, they are connected to a Thermwood service technician and can interact via voice, chat and webcam.

After the Virtual Service link is established, the customer can see and talk to the Thermwood service technician and the service technician can see, not just the cutomer, but also all of the critical parameters of the customer's control.  This connection essentially gives the service technician as much information as he would have if he were standing in front of the customer's control itself.  

Through this link, the control can be diagnosed in real-time and corrections made while programs are being executed. Programming errors can also be identified and corrected online.

Customers can typically handle many mechanical problems themselves if they are shown what to do, so related videos can also be launched by the Thermwood technician to be viewed by the customer on their end.

 

 

The Benefits

Virtual Service can effectively handle most difficulties and problems that occur and provide service in minutes instead of days or weeks - reducing downtime and frustration.


Virtual Service Capabilities

Monitor in real-time:

  • Machine motion
  • Axis positions
  • Inputs and outputs
  • Servo Information
  • Part program execution
  • PLC info
  • AFL messages
  • Axis Normalizaiton Info
  • Axis home switches
  • Machine trajectory information
  • Part program error messages
  • Feed rate override

View:

  • Tool setup data
  • Actuator setup data
  • Tool changer setup data
  • Fixture offset data
  • Maintenance clock information
  • Machine in/out limits

View or modify if necessary:

  • Macro files
  • PLC files
  • Machine setup files
  • Machine format files
  • All Thermwood system files

More Information

For more information on Thermwood's Virtual Service program, or to see a live demonstration of our 3 Axis or 5 Axis CNC Routers in action, please visit the link below:

Request More Information from Thermwood

Smart-routers can be monitored from your mobile device

Posted by Duane Marrett on Thu, Sep 19, 2013

Tags: Thermwood, CNC Router, smart-router, QCore, CNC Mobile App, Monitoring, Advanced Support

Smart-routers live on the webSmart-routers live on the web. They access updates on the web, are serviced through the web and let you monitor and manage your smart-router using your smart phone or tablet.

Smart-routers do this through the use of apps that allow users to monitor their CNC router(s) and the programs that run on them from anywhere. These apps permit users to obtain the following information and more:

  • A listing of every machine (includes an optional user customizable nickname)

  • The current state (ready, running or in e-stop)

  • The current Feed Override setting

  • The current program loaded and or running

  • A listing of all current and past part programs loaded/ran in chronological order with extensions

  • A listing of machine events during each part program in chronological order

  • describe the imageA listing of the cycle time of every part program ran in chronological order

  • A listing of completion or interrupt times in each part program ran in chronological order

  • All machine events in chronological order with filtering

  • Monitor scheduled maintenance with a cycle time countdown as well as a graphical countdown progress bar

  • A time stamp listing of all previous maintenance performed

  • The ability to request a service phone call from a support technician right from your device.

 

 

 

 


 



Request a Consultation

Please click the "Request a Consultation" link above or give us a call at 1-800-533-6901 and we will sit down and show you how all this happens, in detail.

Thermwood CNC Mobile App

Posted by Duane Marrett on Fri, Aug 30, 2013

Tags: Thermwood, CNC Router, smart-router, QCore, CNC Mobile App, Monitoring, Advanced Support

Thermwood CNC Mobile AppThe Thermwood CNC Mobile App allows users to monitor their Thermwood CNC router(s) and the programs that run on them from anywhere. This app permits the user to obtain the following information on a tablet or smartphone (updated every 30 seconds):

  • A listing of every machine you own (includes an optional user customizable nickname)

  • The current state (ready, running or in e-stop)

  • The current Feed Override setting

  • The current program loaded and or running

  • A listing of all current and past part programs loaded/ran in chronological order with extensions

  • A listing of machine events during each part program in chronological order

  • A listing of the cycle time of every part program ran in chronological order

  • A listing of completion or interrupt times in each part program ran in chronological order

  • All machine events in chronological order with filtering

  • Monitor scheduled maintenance with a cycle time countdown as well as a graphical countdown progress bar

  • A time stamp listing of all previous maintenance performed

  • The ability to request a service phone call from a Thermwood Support Technician right from your device.

Domestic Eligibility:  While this app is free to install, only machines enrolled in Thermwood’s Advanced Support program or subscribed to Virtual Service will deliver the monitoring service. The machine also requires QCore control software version 8.5.5 or newer. All new machines will include the ability to use this app during the warranty period of the machine free of charge. 

International Eligibility:
All new international machine customers will be able to use the Thermwood CNC Mobile App free of charge during the machine warranty.  Any non-US customers wishing to continue using this mobile app after the warranty will be allowed to do so for a $50 a month fee automatically billed each month to a credit card.  The customer will be notified when the warranty of the machine is about to expire and asked at that time if he/she would like to continue this service.


Available on the App Store

Available on Google Play

Also available on any browser here: https://server.thermwood.com/thmmobileapp



Thermwood CNC Mobile App - Machine Listing Display

Thermwood CNC Mobile App - Maintenance Display

Thermwood CNC Mobile App - Machine Display

Thermwood CNC Mobile App - Program View

Thermwood CNC Mobile App - Main Screen

View Your Thermwood CNC Router Through Your WebCam

This is a convenient way to watch your machine remotely.  

How it Works

You set up your own web cam (must be an SSL enabled camera for security), and host it on a web page you control.  Then, inside the Thermwood app, you can enter in the address of your camera feed (on your hosted page), and access it through the app.

Click Machine Cameras to bring up a lising of all accessible cameras in the app

Click Machine Cameras to bring up a lising of all accessible cameras in the app


This brings up a listing of all cameras you have added/and gives you the ability to add additional cameras

Listing of all added cameras and link to add additional cameras


Add a new camera by entering in a name and web address to your hosted web cam

Add a new camera by entering in a name and web address to your hosted web cam


More Details

This feature is not designed to be used as a remote management or operation tool, only as an access point in the app that points to the host of your choice.  It is only designed to be used as a viewer, not for remote operation of your machine.

Axis P5514 PTZ Camera

Recommended Camera

Thermwood recommends the Axis M5525-E PTZ Camera, but any SSL enabled camera that you can host on your site should work.  Note:  Thermwood will not be able to provide technical support on your camera or hosting platform, only on our app.

Thermwood Demo Center Web Cam View

 

Get The Thermwood Mobile App

Available on the App Store

Available on Google Play

Also available on any browser here: https://server.thermwood.com/thmmobileapp


Request a Consultation

Please click the "Request a Consultation" link above or give us a call at 1-800-533-6901 and we will sit down and show you how all this happens, in detail.

Smart-routers alert you when prominent parts are going to be processed

Posted by Duane Marrett on Fri, Jul 05, 2013

Tags: CNC Routers, 3 Axis, Model 43, CNC Router, smart-router, Model 45, QCore, MTR, alerts

Smart routers alert you when running critical partsSmart-routers alert you when running critical or prominent parts.  Certain parts are prominent on the final product, door and drawer fronts for example.

Smart-routers instruct you to hand select the sheet if it has any of these prominent parts on it. If left to random, it is easy to encounter a flaw or unattractive grain pattern, forcing you to scrap valuable parts. By hand selecting, you can use the best possible material for these important parts. 

And since nesting is done right at the machine, it is easy to use material left from previous jobs. At the beginning of a new job, simply scan the label on any material you want to use and the machine nests on it. You can even use material with flaws by nesting around the flaws. This feature alone can save 5-7% of your material cost each year.

Thermwood at AWFS 2013

Thermwood will be demonstrating many of the features of smart-router technology and nested based manufacturing at the 2013 AWFS show on July 24th-27th (Booth #8400).  Plan to stop by and check it out, or click the button below to request a personal consultation on how we can help improve your production process.


Request a Consultation

Please click the "Request a Consultation" link above or give us a call at 1-800-533-6901 and we will sit down and show you how all this happens, in detail.

Thermwood Profile Modeler - from Sketch to Production

Posted by Duane Marrett on Wed, Mar 13, 2013

Tags: Thermwood, eCabinet Systems, CNC, software, control nesting, CNC Routers, wood, Woodworking, Nested Base, 3 Axis, Announcements, CabinetShop, Model 43, Technology, SR43, SignRouter 43, CNC Router, Model 45, smart, Free, save money on cnc router, cabinets, Video, QCore, nested based, Product Information, 43, US made, MTR, Easy, SuperControl, Profile Modeler, millwork, wood carving, introduction, carving, Demonstrations

Thermwood Profile ModelerThermwood's Profile Modeler allows you to quickly create a molding or custom shape from a sketch or drawing on a Thermwood CNC Router with no special shaped tooling required.  

This video demonstrates using Profile Modeler to create a custom curved cherry molding from Sketch - to Profile Modeler - to Machine - to Completed Shape.


Steps used in the video:

In eCabinet Systems:
  • Verify the measurements
  • Create the shape using Shape Manager in eCabinet Systems
  • Create Tool
  • Apply Tool to create Shape

On Thermwood QCore SuperControl:
  • File loaded into Profile Modeler on QCore SuperControl
  • Verify Tool Path
  • Run Program
  • Machining Part (Roughing/Finishing/Detail Passes)
  • No special shaped tooling required - Tools Used: 1/2 Straight, 1/2 Ballnose, 1/8 Ballnose, 1/8 Flat
  • Completed Shape

For more information on Profile Modeler or any of our other products, please click here or contact us at 1-800-533-6901.


Thermwood Five Axis Alignment Verification Routine

Posted by Duane Marrett on Thu, Mar 07, 2013

Tags: Thermwood, CNC, software, software update, Composites, CNC Routers, 5 Axis, Announcements, CNC Router, Model 90, aerospace, Model 70, Model 77, Video, QCore, SuperControl, introduction

Thermwood Five Axis Alignment Verification Routine

Thermwood has developed our new Five Axis Alignment Verification Routine which is used to record and populate the alignment measurement values into the Thermwood QCore control system (after machine alignments are manually performed).  

This routine automatically checks alignment in multiple axes and allows alignment to be quickly verified between jobs.  The routine compares the measured values to the default values.

The Thermwood 5 Axis Alignment Verification Routine includes:

  • Renishaw high-tolerance tooling sensor
  • Precision ground pin
  • Dedicated tool holder
  • Collet and all mounting hardware.


For more information on the Five Axis Alignment Verification Routine, please contact us at 1-800-533-6901.

 

 

Thermwood AutoProcessor 5×10

Posted by Duane Marrett on Tue, Aug 21, 2012

Tags: Thermwood, CNC, Woodworking, Nested Base, 3 Axis, Announcements, Trade Shows, Point of Purchase, CNC Router, High Performance, cabinets, QCore, closets, Furniture, IWF, AutoProcessor, architectural, millwork

Thermwood's latest machine, the AutoProcessor 5x10 - Shown at the 2012 IWF show in Atlanta, GA Booth #5753.

The AutoProcessor 5×10 is a complete solution for Nested Based Panel Processing, Cabinet/Closets, Marine/Boat Building, Furniture Manufacturing, Exhibits/ Store Fixtures, Machining Plastic Sheets and High Volume Cabinet Production. 

With each cycle, the machine first labels the sheet, positions the sheet on the table, machines the material, off-loads the finished parts and then repeats the process. Dust collection during this process keeps scrap and debris to a minimum.  Labels help the operator to quickly sort the parts, and Assembly Marks help final assembly happen quickly and easily.

Thermwood AutoProcessor 5x10Features:
• Thermwood QCore SuperControl
•5’ x 10’ Working  Table / Moving Gantry
• Rapid Speed  4,200 IPM
• 4000 lb. Lift Table for Loading
• 12 HP HSK Electro-Spindle
• 8 Position Tool Changer
• Automatic Pop-Up Pins
• Automatic Tool Sensor
• Automatic CNC Labeler
• 9 Spindle Drill Bank
• Unload Table 

More information can be found here

Thermwood AutoProcessor 5x10

Thermwood AutoProcessor 5x10

Thermwood AutoProcessor 5x10

 

Convert Router-CIM® to M and G code for Thermwood CNC Routers

Posted by Duane Marrett on Thu, Apr 26, 2012

Tags: Thermwood, CNC, CNC Routers, Productivity, 3 Axis, CNC Router, Free, QCore, SuperControl, super controller, Router-CIM, Convert

 

Convert Router-CIM Programs to M & G code

Thermwood Corporation announces new software developed to convert Router-CIM® programs to standard M and G code language for use on a Thermwood CNC router

This conversion tool takes place on Thermwood's QCore Super Controller and is very simple to use.  You just load the Router-CIM® G code file directly into the QCore controller using the convert option and the M and G code is automatically converted to conform to your Thermwood machine's specs, and is ready to run.

Router-CIM Convert Dialog

 

This EIA conversion works not only with Router-CIM® programs but with virtually all other programs that contain standard EIA code, and allows you to use your older, existing Router-CIM® programs with ease. 

Thermwood QCore SuperControl

If you would like more information on this conversion process, or how a free demonstration of how our machines can improve your production process, please contact us.