D2.1 Best practice guideline for flipped work-based learning in CNC milling machines.

In machining, numerical control, also called computer numerical control (CNC), is the automated control of tools by means of a computer. It is used to operate tools such as drills, lathes, mills, grinders, routers and 3D printers. CNC transforms a piece of material (metal, plastic, wood, ceramic, stone, or composite) into a specified shape, by removing material with a cutting tool. by following coded programmed instructions and without a manual operator directly controlling the machining operation.

CNC offers greatly increased productivity over non-computerized machining for repetitive production, where the machine must be manually or mechanically controlled by prefabricated pattern guides. The CNC machine provides a motorized manoeuvrable tool and often a motorized manoeuvrable platform, which are both controlled by a computer, according to specific input instructions. Instructions are delivered to a CNC machine in the form of a sequential program of machine control instructions. In modern CNC systems, the design of a mechanical part and its manufacturing program are highly automated.