July 2, 2026 — Nidec Machine Tool Corporation announced the launch of Nidec NC Twin, a digital twin platform for its MVR Series double-column machining centers.
Nidec NC Twin recreates machine movements and processes in a virtual environment, allowing manufacturers to validate programs before production begins. By replacing traditional machine prove-outs with high-precision simulation, operators can complete setup and verification remotely on a PC while keeping the machine available for production. The result is higher machine utilization and improved factory throughput.
Manufacturing Challenges
Manufacturers continue to face significant challenges, including severe labor shortages and the transfer of skilled machining know-how to the next generation. Large-component machining often requires considerable time for NC program verification, interference checking, dry runs and trial machining. These activities are time-consuming and keep production equipment out of service.
These challenges are often greater when production is spread across multiple facilities. In these cases, machining quality and efficiency can vary depending on operator experience and local conditions.
Following the announcement of the platform's development completion at JIMTOF 2024 *2, the Company validated the system on production machines to refine its simulation accuracy prior to commercial release.
Key features
Nidec NC Twin provides the following three simulation functions to help solve challenges faced on today's manufacturing floor:
1. Machine operation simulation
By executing the same NC program used on the actual machine within a PC-based virtual environment *3, Nidec NC Twin accurately reproduces complex machine movements and workpiece conditions, including various attachments. Without requiring users to build a simulation environment, the platform visualizes potential interference between the spindle, workpiece and machine structure with high precision.
2. Machining time simulation
Highly accurate cycle-time verification improves the accuracy of production cost estimation and process planning.
3. Surface quality simulation
Operators can predict machined surface quality by evaluating machining parameters before cutting. This minimizes trial machining and helps achieve target surface quality at an earlier stage.
Looking ahead
Nidec NC Twin will be exhibited at the Japan International Machine Tool Fair 2026 (JIMTOF 2026) at Tokyo Big Sight beginning on Oct. 26, 2026.
Visitors will see practical applications of how Nidec NC Twin helps manufacturers reduce setup time, improve machine utilization and increase productivity through digital twin technology.
About Nidec
Nidec is the world's leading comprehensive motor manufacturer, specializing in "everything that spins and moves," with a strong focus on the motor business. Nidec's extensive product lineup, which ranges from small precision motors to ultra-large motors, leverages the technological capabilities of its approximately 340 group companies across 46 countries. These products are used in various fields, including IT equipment, automobiles, motorcycles, commerce and industry. We remain dedicated to providing the world with indispensable products and solutions at an overwhelming speed, utilizing technologies aimed at lightness, thinness, shortness, compactness and efficiency.
