OVERVIEW

Math in programming - the single word math often appears to be so powerful that it strikes a weak chord in many programmers. It is surprising how many new programmers, manual programmers in particular, are afraid of the often numerous calculations associated with CNC programming. This fear is really not substantiated. Let's look very briefly at what kind of mathematical knowledge is really necessary to handle typical programming calculations for manual program preparation.

First, the basic arithmetic functions - addition, subtraction, multiplication and division - are at the core of any mathematical activity. Going a bit further, the knowledge of common algebraic functions is definitely useful, mainly square roots and powers of a number.

Second, since CNC programming is based on the relationship of points within a system of rectangular or polar coordinates, a good knowledge of basic geometry is also imperative. The scope of this knowledge should cover understanding many principles of angles, the concept of degrees and their subsets, tapers, polygons, properties of an arc and circle, the pi constant ( ?), and other associated topics. Knowledge of planes and axial orientations is important in many cases as well.

Without a doubt, the most important part of geometry, one that absolutely must be mastered, is the solution of right angle triangles, using trigonometric functions. Very seldom there will be a problem or calculation that will require a solution using oblique triangles, although these...