This paper presents general concept of control in ECM, leading to the development of optimal and adaptive control of ECM process which seems to be indispensable for further development of ECM.
A control system was developed for ECM with a view to utilizing in optimal or adaptive control. A mini-computer was employed as a central performance unit to memorize a control program, to process data, to calculate, to pass on-line judgement, to share adequate pulse train with the stepping motor, and to instruct power source in its voltage. Specific resistance of electrolyte and gap voltage are sampled to calculate an adequate feed rate to keeping an aimed gap. Some experiments were performed to apply this system to optimal control in which taper of machined holes was controlled according to a program.
