by Jerry Good
A Xydroid, (pronounced ‘ziedroid '), is an automated fabricating machine manufactured by Xycorp, Inc. They range from simple X-Y tables to 3 and 4 axis shaping machines. Some uses of the Xydroids include; 2 and 3 axis hot-wire cutting, plasma arc or oxy-acetylene metal cutting, laser cutting, lathe and milling operations, 3d shape cutting, and gluing operations.
These machines use our proprietary CAD CAM technology to automate complex motion control. The operator interface is a PC computer and is very easy to learn and operate. Unlike old technology CNC machines, Xydroids require no file transfers, interpreters, translators or complicated codes to operate.
These machines require no operator attendance while running. Xydroids are heavy-duty machines built for an industrial environment. Our designs always utilize the best linear and radial motion components, and a completely solid-state control system.
We chose the “Xydroid” name because of its implied 'robotic' connotations. The X and Y, of course, refer to the Cartesian coordinate system, which is used as the basis for the motion control programming. And, 'droid' is a 'sci-fi' term referring to an artificially intelligent machine used to replace human workers.
While writing this article I looked up the definition of 'droid' on the Internet and found the following from one of the "Star Wars" web pages. "Droids are one of the fundamental technologies of the galaxy. They are intelligent automatons programmed to perform very specific functions.
Droids are often used for tasks which are too complex, dangerous or even dull for organic beings. Droids may be programmed to excel at one or two specific types of functions at the expense of having the versatility of organics." Another page referring to the economic benefits of General Purpose Worker Droids (GPWD) states: "Many factories find it much cheaper to invest heavily in droid workers rather than sentient beings since droids do not require a salary. “These droid workers are tireless and often times work for days on end before requiring the slightest bit of maintenance or repair". Gee! I couldn't have said it better myself.