Project Background
The customer builds CNC tube bending machines whose operators enter bending programs, numerical dimensions, production parameters and machine settings. The operator console combines a touchscreen, emergency stop and physical switches with a keyboard input area.
This equipment needs both text entry and cursor control during programming and machine operation. The keyboard therefore had to become a fixed part of the machine HMI, positioned alongside the display and existing controls.
The Challenge
The console needed a full keyboard, a trackball and a numeric keypad within the allocated installation area. The D-8605 base design used rear-panel mounting, while the customer required front-panel installation on the tube bender.
Panel dimensions, fixing details, the opening and cable outlet had to match the final console. The interface also had to suit the CNC control system, while the keyboard and pointing device needed appropriate protection for industrial use.
Integrating three input functions into the machine console
The finished panel needed a full keyboard, trackball and numeric keypad in a front-mounted structure matched to the CNC console.
DAVOLIN Solution
DAVOLIN selected the D-8605 platform because it combines keyboard input, a trackball and a numeric keypad. The mounting structure was changed from rear-panel to front-panel installation, and the project panel was configured to 502 × 159 mm.
The stainless steel input module connects to the CNC system by USB. The project specification identifies IP65 protection for the keyboard and IP54 for the trackball. Mounting and cable-outlet details were adapted to the machine console while retaining the combined input functions.
502 × 159 mm is the customized project size; the linked standard D-8605 product may have different dimensions and options.
Selected Product
D-8605
A D-8605-based stainless steel keyboard combining keyboard input, trackball control and a numeric keypad. This project uses a custom 502 × 159 mm front-mount panel and USB connection, with keyboard IP65 and trackball IP54 protection.
Project Result
The customer approved the sample and placed a 100-unit production order. The customized keyboard was installed in actual CNC tube bending machines, forming the physical input area beside the touchscreen and machine controls.
The project moved from a modified keyboard sample to a working machine installation. The customer was satisfied with the application and continued discussing a more integrated operator-panel design.
Looking Ahead
The customer is considering an operator panel that combines the keyboard with controls such as an emergency stop, rotary knobs, encoders, potentiometers and switches. This is a future design direction; the completed project described here is the customized D-8605 keyboard installation.
