The GATE Grind

GATE 2021 ME (ME2) – Question 16

Computer Aided Manufacturing and Automation · NC/CNC machines and CNC programming · 1 mark · Multiple choice

In a CNC machine tool, the function of an interpolator is to generate

  1. Lubrication-pump signal
  2. Tool-radius compensation error signal
  3. NC code from part drawing
  4. Reference signal prescribing the part shape

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Show answer and explanation

Correct answer: (D) Reference signal prescribing the part shape

Explanation

An interpolator converts commanded path endpoints and geometry into coordinated intermediate position references for the machine axes. Those references trace the required contour.

Thus **D** is correct. Drawing-to-code conversion belongs to CAM/postprocessing, and servo error generation is a different function.