The furniture sector has changed dramatically over the last 20 years. Among many, the introduction and application of CNC technology has been one of the more transformative changes.
How does CNC work?
CNC uses machinery, such as wood routers, that is controlled by a computer and used to cut, carve, and drill wood, with extremely high accuracy. A CNC machine is fed the data it needs through pre-prepared computer instructions. This eliminates the possibility of human error caused by inaccurate measurements or hand adjustments, and ensures that the output is consistent throughout a large order or product run.
Increased Precision and Accuracy
A large benefit of using computer controlled equipment is its repeatability. Each piece produced will have identical dimensions, and therefore the same tolerances, which means that assembly is quicker and can be done without the need for extensive adjustments. With cabinets, table tops or other modular components, this consistency is crucial to the manufacture and final quality of the furniture.
Faster Work Flows
The use of manual machinery may require the manufacturer to carry out a number of set-up procedures in order to create their final product. With a CNC machine, a number of these functions can be consolidated into a single process. As such, the whole manufacturing process can be significantly faster.
More Creative Control
Shapes and designs that previously required manual labor to carry out can now be produced with great precision. This makes it simpler, and cheaper, to produce pieces that would previously have required hours of work. It therefore also opens up more opportunities for designers to experiment with shapes and features.
Less Wasted Materials
CNC software can now arrange shapes to maximize the use of wood and minimize wastage. Reducing wastage is becoming more and more important as manufacturers look to increase their productivity whilst simultaneously cutting down on their waste output.
The Importance of the Worker
The rise of CNC machines in furniture manufacturing means that the industry’s workforce is rapidly adapting to a changing landscape, but this will in turn increase their importance to a manufacturing process.
The use of CNC machines, for example, means that machine operators require a knowledge of programming, materials, tooling and quality control. It should not be viewed as taking the place of work; it should be seen as complementing the worker’s skill set.
Training the Workforce of the Future
The use of CNC technology will be widespread across all types of manufacturing, so it is important that students are aware of how machines work and what their uses are as they will go on to work in the sector themselves. The use of CNC will become commonplace in all workshop environments, as they provide manufacturers with the ability to meet future demands for furniture design.