Abstract
Computer numerical control (CNC) machine tools are complex production systems with fully automatic machine parts. Nowadays, high feed rates and machining speeds are used during the machining process. Human operators are still needed to set-up the machine, load/unload workpieces and parts, load the machining code, and supervise the machining process. The operators work in an environment where automated high-speed motions occur, and consequently, CNC machine tools have to be equipped with safety systems. The approach presented in this paper was to evaluate the main safety systems of CNC machine tools based upon the analytic hierarchy process (AHP). The analyzed systems were divided into six main categories and compared pairwise using five criteria proposed by the authors. The approach and the obtained results significantly relied upon the situation found at the industrial company used as a benchmark for the research. The analysis reveals that, among considered safety devices, manually operated controls are the most efficient ones. Finally, a sensitivity analysis was conducted to test the stability of the AHP solution.
Highlights
Operating industrial machinery is associated with occupational hazards, and the safety of machine operators is a paramount concern both for companies and for legislative bodies
It can be stated that classical safety devices, which are present in practically every type of industrial machine are by far better than the other solutions
A possible explanation for these results could be the fact that internal sensors usually come as standard devices on computer numerical control (CNC) machine tools, while software-implemented protection is usually provided as supplementary options
Summary
Operating industrial machinery is associated with occupational hazards, and the safety of machine operators is a paramount concern both for companies and for legislative bodies. A literature review regarding the assessment of risks related to industrial machines, presented in Reference [1], highlights the fact that the manufacturing industry was responsible for 63% of non-fatal injuries in the US during 1992–2001. The conclusion recommends, among others, the implementation of a positive safety culture to decrease injuries among machine operators. A comprehensive survey of behavioral safety in manufacturing was presented in Reference [2]. The conclusion pointed out that behavioral interventions are successful in an industry with a high risk of injury. In Reference [4], an analytic hierarchy process (AHP)-based methodology was used for the hierarchization of safety devices for industrial machinery
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