Welcome to our weekly AI + Machine Tools round-up. Each week we scan the global CNC, sheet metal, robotics, and welding sectors to bring you the sharpest AI in machine tools updates in one quick read. From smarter lasers and predictive robots to next-gen CAM and quality control, here are the stories that matter right now.
TRUMPF — AI Cutting Assistant for laser edge quality
TRUMPF has launched an AI-powered Cutting Assistant that lets operators scan cut edges, with algorithms instantly judging burrs and suggesting parameter tweaks. Available on TruLaser systems ≥6 kW from May 2025, the tool is designed to reduce scrap, shorten ramp-up, and support less experienced operators.
🔗 TRUMPF AI Cutting Assistant press release
DMG MORI — AI Chip Removal (automated chip clearing)
DMG MORI’s AI Chip Removal integrates cameras and algorithms to monitor machining areas for chip buildup. By auto-steering rinse nozzles, it prevents chip nests that can stall production, protecting part surfaces and reducing downtime.
🔗 DMG MORI AI Chip Removal
Schmalz – ivOS Sheet Metal (AI handling kit)
Schmalz’s ivOS Sheet Metal bundles 3D vision, an intelligent matrix gripper, and AI software. Robots can now adapt to different sheet geometries without constant reprogramming, enabling more flexible and autonomous material handling.
🔗 Schmalz ivOS AI handling
KUKA – AI monitoring for friction stir welding
KUKA is embedding AI-based monitoring into its FSW (friction stir welding) cells. The system analyses real-time spindle and thermal data to detect anomalies before weld defects occur, reducing costly rework in automotive and aerospace production.
🔗 KUKA AI FSW monitoring
Hexagon – HxGN Visual Detection (AI quality control)
Hexagon’s HxGN Visual Detection applies deep learning to detect surface flaws, from scratches to micro-cracks. Integrated with existing CMMs and QA workflows, it automates inspection and strengthens closed-loop manufacturing.
🔗 Hexagon Visual Detection
FANUC – ZDT predictive analytics
FANUC continues to scale its Zero Down Time (ZDT) platform, an AI-driven predictive maintenance system for robots. ZDT collects usage data from over 40,000 robots worldwide and predicts failures before they happen, reducing unscheduled downtime.
🔗 FANUC ZDT
Siemens – AI in CAM programming
Siemens is highlighting how AI supports CNC programming in its NX CAM suite. AI tools help generate toolpaths more efficiently, reduce manual input, and learn from historical machining data — a major step toward fully autonomous CAM.
🔗 Siemens EMO page on AI in CNC programming
🎯 Wrap-up
AI is now embedded across the entire machine tool spectrum — from cutting and welding to programming and inspection. As these launches show, the trend isn’t isolated experiments but real products going into production worldwide. Stay tuned for next week’s round-up.
