MDSI OpenCNC^® Powers New Five-Axis Machining Center from Fryer Machine Systems

Unprecedented speed and performance achieved with MDSI's software-only CNC control on the new Fryer SX-30 machining center. See it in Fryer's Booth A-8043 at IMTS 2002, Chicago

CHICAGO—Manufacturing Data Systems, Inc. (MDSI), (Ann Arbor, Michigan), the leader in software computer numerical control (CNC) and software motion technology, and Fryer Machine Systems, Inc., (Patterson, New York) a premier machine tool builder, announced today that MDSI's OpenCNC software will be the exclusive CNC control in Fryer's new SX Series of 5-axis machining centers.

OpenCNC software, the core technology from MDSI, is the only unbundled, open-architecture, entirely software based CNC control on the market. The latest release, Version 6.2, builds on the product's already unique software architecture with new high-speed machining algorithms, RTCP extensions in five-axis machining, probing cycles for parts inspection, and real-time deterministic Ethernet I/O.

Fryer Machine Systems conducted an exhaustive, resource-intensive audit of control vendors, searching for a solution that would deliver the kind of features and benefits that would fulfill the vision of the SX Series machining center. They needed speed, performance and flexibility not found in any other control system, regardless of price and expensive proprietary add-ons. Integration with other applications at the customer level was crucial.

OpenCNC Version 6.2 was the only product that could make Fryer's vision a reality, and in fact, take it to an even higher level than previously thought possible in terms of speed, performance and stability. SX-30 is a five-axis machine tool designed for complex manufacturing needs. The truly open architecture of MDSI’s technology was among the most important attributes of the product.

"MDSI opened our eyes to an approach that we might not have thought feasible for the speed and performance levels we were looking for," said Larry Fryer, president and CEO, Fryer Machine Systems, Inc. "When we saw the benefits of Version 6.2, including networking, remote diagnostics, and most of all, greater choice on the variety of parts we can manufacture, the decision on an exclusive control vendor was clear."

In fact, OpenCNC provided superior five-axis performance that Fryer had not been able to find in other controls. "The power and flexibility of OpenCNC we're not seeing from any other control builders," Larry Fryer said. "MDSI is providing stability where others couldn't."

"MDSI is delighted to work with an industry leader like Fryer Machine," said James R. Fall, president and CEO, MDSI. "The Fryer SX machining center combined with our OpenCNC Version 6.2 control creates a powerful product for the five-axis, high-performance marketplace."

About MDSI

Manufacturing Data Systems, Inc. (MDSI) is a division of Hurco Companies, Inc. MDSI supplies Internet–enabled, open–architecture software motion control applications that increase manufacturing flexibility and enable agile manufacturing for the Computer Numerical Control (CNC) and General Motion Control (GMC) markets. Unlike traditional hardware or proprietary–based CNC or motion controls, MDSI’s solutions are unbundled from, and use no, proprietary hardware or motion control cards.

MDSI’s foundation soft motion technology provides a common and open architecture control across a variety of machine tools from two-axis lathes and grinders to five-axis machining centers tools to material handling systems.

MDSI's business strategy emphasizes technological and price/performance leadership, hardware independence and comprehensive customer-support. The company's customers, spanning many industries, include BAE Systems, Boeing, Briggs & Stratton, Caterpillar, Cessna Aircraft, Dana, Detroit Diesel, Emerson Electric, Flowserve, Ford Motor Company, General Electric, General Motors, Halliburton, Lockheed-Martin, Tecumseh Products Company, Teledyne, Textron, and Vickers. For more information, visit MDSI's web site at http://www.mdsi2.com.

About Fryer Machine Systems

Building machines the right way is more than a motto at Fryer Machine Systems, it's a way of life. Designed and built by some of the best craftsmen in New England, Fryer Machines offer high quality, versatility and value. Designed for Toolroom, Mold and Prototype applications, our machines are easy to setup and simple to operate. Since 1982, Fryer Machine Systems has earned the respect of hundreds of shops throughout the United States by offering custom engineering, machine tool service and sales. In 1995, we started production of our MB milling machines and Easy Turn engine lathes. These new machines were an instant hit, with hundreds sold in just three years. In July of 1998, Fryer Machine moved to a 40,000 sq./ft manufacturing facility in Patterson, New York. Customers include Aavid Engineering, Acco Chain, Allen Bradley, Boston University, Hasbro, Hewlett Packard, Duke University, Parker Hannifin, Milton Bradley, Norton Company and Vermont American. For more information, visit www.fryermachine.com.

MDSI, the MDSI logo, OpenCNC, and WinMotion are registered trademarks of Manufacturing Data Systems, Inc. Significant Events, and MDSI Motion are trademarks of Manufacturing Data Systems, Inc. All other brand or product names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners.