Display control system

Abstract

A display control system capable of communicating with a first machine tool (100A) and a second machine tool (100B) having a camera and performing display control of a screen includes a first display instruction unit that performs display instruction of a first mode of the first machine tool (100A) on the screen, a second display instruction unit that performs display instruction of a second mode of the second machine tool (100B) on the screen, a third display instruction unit that performs display instruction of an image captured by the camera on the screen, and a control unit that performs display control of an image associated with tool-related information associated with a tool acquired from the camera by receiving input of the tool-related information in the first mode. The tool-related information includes any one of a tool number, a tool pocket number of a tool magazine in which the tool is stored, a work station number of a turret on which the tool is mounted, and a tool correction value.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a technique for assisting in the operation of multiple machine tools. Background Technology

[0002] In recent years, work systems consisting of multiple machine tools have become increasingly common. By utilizing multiple machine tools, users can improve the efficiency of workpiece processing.

[0003] As an example of a working system, Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2016-71407 (Patent Document 1) discloses a CNC system that separates the CNC device into a cloud-side and a machine tool-side. More specifically, this CNC system operates CNC control, PMC control, and display control software on the cloud side, and uses servo control and spindle control software to operate the mechanical movements on the machine tool side. By managing the CNC control, PMC control, and display control software on the cloud side, this CNC system reduces the maintenance costs incurred by each machine tool.

[0004] As another example of a working system, International Patent Publication No. 2015 / 056339 (Patent Document 2) discloses a machining production line designed to simultaneously view the specified information of a machine tool through multiple screens. More specifically, in this machining production line, for example, in a first machine tool (a machine tool equipped with a display), its own specified information is displayed on the first machine tool's display. On the other hand, in a second machine tool (another machine tool besides the first machine tool), the specified information of the first machine tool is displayed on the second machine tool's display. Therefore, when operating the first machine tool, the operator can simultaneously view the specified information of the first machine tool displayed on both the first machine tool's display and the second machine tool's display, such as the ladder diagram and I / O monitor related to the first machine tool, from each of the various displays.

[0005] Existing technical documents

[0006] Patent documents

[0007] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2016-71407

[0008] Patent Document 2: International Publication No. 2015 / 056339 Summary of the Invention

[0009] The problem the invention aims to solve

[0010] In recent years, work systems have become increasingly sophisticated, with discussions focusing on using automated guided vehicles (AGVs) with robots for workpiece transfer between machine tools. Along with this, from a safety perspective, there is a requirement to operate as unmanned as possible around the machine tools and within the movement range of the AVRs.

[0011] However, Patent Document 1 aggregates some functions of each machine tool in the cloud, requiring operators to be present at the control panels of each machine tool for tasks such as setup and manual processing. In Patent Document 2, the status of each machine tool is shared in the screens of other machine tools, still requiring operators to be present at each machine tool for tasks such as setup and manual processing.

[0012] Solution for solving the problem

[0013] Therefore, the present invention provides the invention described in the claims.

[0014] The effects of the invention

[0015] According to the present invention, machine tool operation can be performed even when not in front of the machine tool. Attached Figure Description

[0016] Figure 1 This is a diagram showing the working system as seen from the top surface.

[0017] Figure 2 This is a diagram illustrating the process flow when operations in the first machine tool are performed remotely from the second machine tool (display control system).

[0018] Figure 3 This is a diagram showing an example of a screen controlled by a display control system.

[0019] Figure 4 This is a diagram showing an example of a screen controlled by a display control system.

[0020] Figure 5 This is a diagram showing an example of a screen controlled by a display control system.

[0021] Figure 6 This is a diagram showing an example of a screen controlled by a display control system.

[0022] Figure 7 This is a diagram showing an example of a screen controlled by a display control system.

[0023] Figure 8 This is a diagram showing an example of a screen controlled by a display control system.

[0024] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of the hardware structure of a machine tool.

[0025] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of the hardware structure of a display control device. Detailed Implementation

[0026] Hereinafter, each embodiment according to the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the following description, the same reference numerals are assigned to the same components and elements. Their names and functions are also the same. Therefore, detailed descriptions thereof will not be repeated. In addition, each embodiment and each modification described below can be appropriately selected and combined.

[0027] <A. Device Structure of Working System 10>

[0028] Refer to Figure 1 , and an example of the working system 10 according to the embodiment will be described. Figure 1 is a view showing the working system 10 as observed from the upper surface.

[0029] The working system 10 includes a first machine tool 100A, a second machine tool 100B including a display control system, and a transfer device 50.

[0030] The first machine tool 100A and the second machine tool 100B may be the same type of machine tool or different types of machine tools. The first machine tool 100A and the second machine tool 100B are configured to be able to communicate with each other via the display control system. The first machine tool 100A and the second machine tool 100B may be connected wirelessly or wired. As an example, the communication specifications of the first machine tool 100A and the second machine tool 100B may adopt fixed cycle type communication specifications such as EtherCAT (registered trademark), EtherNet / IP (registered trademark), CompoNet (registered trademark), etc., or non-fixed cycle type communication specifications such as EtherNET (registered trademark).

[0031] Hereinafter, without particularly distinguishing between the first machine tool 100A and the second machine tool 100B, either the first machine tool 100A or the second machine tool 100B will also be referred to as the machine tool 100.

[0032] Machine tool 100 is a workpiece processing machine. For example, machine tool 100 is a machine tool that performs subtractive manufacturing (SM) machining of workpieces. Alternatively, machine tool 100 may also be a machine tool that performs additive manufacturing (AM) machining of workpieces. Furthermore, machine tool 100 may be a vertical or horizontal machining center or turning center. Alternatively, machine tool 100 may be a lathe, an additive manufacturing machine, or other cutting or grinding machinery. Furthermore, the machine tool may be a composite machine tool combining these technologies. Additionally, it may include a tool magazine for storing multiple cutting tools. In this embodiment, the first machine tool 100A and the second machine tool 100B are horizontal machining centers and are equipped with a tool magazine capable of storing 60 cutting tools. The tool magazine has a tool holder for storing one cutting tool, and each tool holder is labeled with a number. In this embodiment, an example will be described using a tool magazine with 60 tool holders capable of storing 60 cutting tools. First machine tool 100A and second machine tool 100B are equipped with a first camera 111A and a second camera 111B. The first machine tool 100A has the first camera 111A positioned to capture images of the tool mounted on the spindle. The second machine tool 100B has the second camera 111B positioned to capture images of the tool housed in the tool holder of the tool magazine. In this embodiment, a horizontal machining center is described, but in lathes and turning centers, the camera may also be positioned to capture images of the tool mounted on the tool post at the workstation. Figure 1 In the first machine tool 100A, the operator stands in front of the control panel of the second machine tool 100B and performs operations. However, there is an opening and closing door 116B between the operator and the machining area 118B. The opening and closing door 116B can be opened to change the tools mounted on the spindle 117B. The first machine tool 100A also has an opening and closing door 116A, so it is possible to open the opening and closing door 116A to install tools on the spindle 117A and clean chips from the machining area 118A.

[0033] The conveying device 50 is a device used for conveying workpieces. Figure 1The diagram shows a transport device in which an arm-type robot 51 is mounted on an automated transport vehicle 52. Using this automated transport vehicle with the arm-type robot 51, pallets containing workpieces can be transported unmanned. The specific workpiece transport process is as follows: A pallet containing workpieces processed by the second machine tool 100B is moved to the pallet transport port of the second machine tool 100B. When the pallet arrives at the pallet transport port, the opening / closing door 113B for opening and closing the pallet transport port of the second machine tool 100B is opened. When the opening / closing door 113B is open, the arm of the arm-type robot 51 enters the interior of the second machine tool 100B and grasps the pallet. While holding the pallet, the arm-type robot 51 rotates around its rotation axis and folds its arm to achieve a stable posture. An automated guided vehicle 52, equipped with an arm-type robot holding a pallet, moves to the pallet conveying port of the first machine tool 100A for the next processing step and waits until the opening / closing door 113A of the first machine tool 100A opens. When the opening / closing door 113A opens and the pallet conveying port is open, the arm-type robot 51, mounted on the conveying device 50, extends its arm and places the pallet in the pallet placement area of ​​the first machine tool 100A. The first machine tool 100A detects the placement of the new pallet and moves it into the processing area 118A. When placed in the designated position within the processing area 118A, the workpiece is processed according to a pre-designed processing program. The pallet whose workpiece has been processed by the first machine tool 100A can also be conveyed to the next machine tool by the conveying device 50 with the arm-type robot 51, just as it was done with the second machine tool 100B. If all processing is completed, the workpiece can be removed from the pallet, stored in a storage cabinet, and processing is finished.

[0034] The conveying device was described using an automated guided vehicle 52 with an arm-type robot 51, but it is not limited to this. For example, it could also be a loader. The loader is driven along a track by a drive mechanism such as a servo motor.

[0035] The first machine tool 100A includes a first operation panel 130A, which has a first display unit having a first screen. The machine tool 100B includes a second operation panel 130B, which has a second display unit having a second screen. Hereinafter, without specifically distinguishing between the first operation panel 130A and the second operation panel 130B, either the first operation panel 130A or the second operation panel 130B will be referred to as operation panel 130. Without specifically distinguishing between the first screen and the second screen, either the first screen or the second screen will also be referred to as any one of the screens.

[0036] The operation panel 130 includes a display 106 and operation keys 107. The display 106 displays various pieces of information related to machining on the screen. The display 106 is, for example, a liquid crystal display, an organic EL (Electro Luminescence) display, or other display devices. In addition, as an example of this embodiment, the display 106 is constituted by a touch panel and accepts various operations on the machine tool 100 through touch operations. Of course, a display 106 that is not a touch panel may also be used. The operation keys 107 are constituted by hardware keys and are used to accept various operations on the machine tool 100. The operation keys 107 may also be provided with a handle, a mechanical operation panel, a keyboard, an emergency stop button, etc. On the other hand, the mechanical operation panel and the keyboard can also be displayed on the screen in the form of a software mechanical operation panel and a software keyboard for use. It is appropriately designed according to the size of the operation panel, etc.

[0037] In addition, in the above, an example in which the working system 10 is constituted by two machine tools, the first machine tool 100A and the second machine tool 100B, has been described, but the working system 10 may also be constituted by three or more machine tools.

[0038] In addition, in the above, the working system 10 as a wire processing machine has been described, but the working system 10 does not necessarily need to be a wire processing machine. As an example, the working system 10 may also be constituted by the first machine tool 100A and the second machine tool 100B provided at different locations. In this case, the working system 10 does not necessarily need to include the transfer device 50.

[0039] <B. Setting Process of Tool Correction Value>

[0040] The operator measures the machined workpiece W using a measuring instrument to confirm whether the workpiece W has been machined with the intended accuracy. In the case where the workpiece W has not been machined with the intended accuracy, the operator re-sets the tool correction value for the machine tool. At this time, the machine tool 100 according to this embodiment is configured to accept the setting of the tool correction value for other machine tools 100. Thereby, the operator does not need to move to in front of each machine tool.

[0041] Hereinafter, refer to Figure 2 to describe the setting process of the tool correction value according to the embodiment. Figure 2 It is a diagram showing a processing flow in the case of remotely setting the tool correction value in the first machine tool 100A from the second machine tool 100B.

[0042] In step S10, the second machine tool 100B accepts an operation of selecting the machine tool for which the tool correction value is to be set. As an example, in step S10, it is set to be displayed on Figure 3In the "Machine Selection" section of the control panel display of the second machine tool 100B, the button "1" was selected, and the first machine tool 100A was selected.

[0043] In step S12, the second machine tool 100B sends a request to the first machine tool 100A to obtain the tool calibration value of the tool mounted on the first machine tool 100A.

[0044] In step S14, the first machine tool 100A sends the current tool calibration value set in the first machine tool 100A to the machine tool 100B based on the tool calibration value acquisition request received from the second machine tool 100B.

[0045] In step S20, the display control system of the second machine tool 100B constructs a setting screen for the tool calibration value based on the tool calibration value received from the first machine tool 100A, and displays the setting screen as described later. Figure 3 The "Tool Offset" window is displayed on the information display screen of the first machine tool 100A. This setting screen is configured to handle changes to the tool calibration values ​​involved in the first machine tool 100A. The setting screen displayed on the second machine tool 100B may be the same as or different from the tool calibration value setting screen displayed on the first machine tool 100A. Figure 3 The following figure shows a screen that displays information related to the first machine tool 100A on the display of the operation panel of the second machine tool 100B. The "tool offset" screen, which is the setting screen for the tool calibration value of the tool installed on the first machine tool 100A, constitutes part of it.

[0046] The settings screen 80 is configured to accept tool calibration value setting operations. Figure 3In the example, as a tool correction value, shape parameter 81A, set as "Geom.," representing the shape of the tool, and wear parameter 81B, set as "Wear," representing the amount of tool wear, are shown. Additionally, next to the "Tool Offset" screen, which is part of the setting screen, the "Tool View" screen displays still and moving images obtained by a camera mounted on the first machine tool 100A capturing the tool on the tool spindle of the first machine tool 100A. The "Tool View" screen can directly display the image of the tool captured by the camera, or it can emphasize the wear state using red or other colors. Alternatively, it can display an image obtained by overlaying the initial shape of the tool with the camera's tool image using dashed lines. The method of displaying the "Tool View" screen can be appropriately changed according to the operator's usage, but it is necessary to display the state of the tool mounted on the machine tool so that the operator does not need to work at the machine tool.

[0047] The shape parameter 81A displayed in the "Geometry" column is a parameter used to specify the shape of the cutting tool. By setting the shape parameter 81A, the machine tool 100 can machine the workpiece based on the shape of the cutting tool. Typically, the shape parameter 81A is expressed as an offset value relative to a specified reference point. The shape parameter 81A may include, for example, the width in the X direction relative to the specified reference point, the width in the Z direction relative to the specified reference point, the width in the Y direction relative to the specified reference point, and the diameter of the cutting tool relative to the specified reference point.

[0048] The wear parameter 81B displayed in the "Wear" column is a parameter used to specify the amount of tool wear. By setting the wear parameter 81B, the machine tool 100 can machine the workpiece based on the amount of tool wear. Typically, the wear parameter 81B is expressed as an offset value relative to a specified reference point. The wear parameter 81B includes, for example, the tool wear width in the X direction relative to the specified reference point, the tool wear width in the Z direction relative to the specified reference point, the tool wear width in the Y direction relative to the specified reference point, and the radial wear amount of the tool relative to the specified reference point.

[0049] Each parameter group of shape parameter 81A and wear parameter 81B is associated with tool number 82. Tool number 82 is referenced in the machining program. That is, when a tool number is specified in the machining program, the machine tool 100 refers to the parameter set (shape parameter 81A and wear parameter 81B) associated with that tool number.

[0050] Alternatively, the system can be configured to accept changes to wear parameter 81B, but not to accept changes to shape parameter 81A. That is, the operator can remotely change only wear parameter 81B, but cannot remotely change shape parameter 81A. This is because the shape of the tool hardly changes. Therefore, once shape parameter 81A is set, the chance of changing it is low. By prohibiting remote operation of shape parameter 81A, which has a low chance of change, accidental changes can be prevented.

[0051] When the tool calibration value change operation is completed, the operator confirms the change on the setting screen 80. Based on this, in step S24A, the display control system of the second machine tool 100B sends the tool calibration value set in step S22 to the first machine tool 100A. At this time, the display control system also sends a request to acquire a camera image of the tool with the changed tool calibration value to the first machine tool 100A (step S24B). Here, in conjunction with the sending of the acquisition request, information for identifying the tool is also sent. In this embodiment, the unit that detects the changed tool calibration value detects the tool number of the corresponding tool from the detected unit and sends the tool number information to the first machine tool 100A. However, it is not limited to this; the allocation number information of the unit that changed the tool calibration value can also be sent to the first machine tool 100A as tool association information associated with the tool. In addition to the tool calibration value, the tool association information also includes the tool number, the tool holder number of the tool magazine that stores the tool, the workstation number of the turret that installs the tool, etc. For example, in the case of creating a simple program for tool changing, and having the machine tool execute the program to mount the tool onto the spindle, the program for tool changing becomes tool association information. This program for tool changing needs to include the number of the tool to be mounted on the spindle, thus containing information known as the tool number.

[0052] In step S26A, the first machine tool 100A updates the current tool calibration value in the first machine tool 100A based on the tool calibration value received from the display control system of the second machine tool 100B. Thus, the setting of the tool calibration value in the first machine tool 100A is remotely rewritten from the second machine tool 100B.

[0053] Additionally, in step S26B, the first machine tool 100A retrieves a tool with updated tool calibration values ​​from the tool magazine and installs the tool onto the tool spindle using an automatic tool changer system. Afterward, a camera mounted on the first machine tool 100A captures an image of the tool. The captured image can be a still image or a moving image.

[0054] In step S27A, the update process of the first machine tool 100A based on the tool correction value has been completed normally, and the updated tool correction value is sent to the second machine tool 100B.

[0055] Additionally, in step S27B, a still image or moving image of the cutting tool captured by the camera is sent to the second machine tool 100B. At this time, information about the initial state of the cutting tool (its state at the time of purchase) can also be sent to the second machine tool 100B in conjunction with the captured image.

[0056] In step S28A, the second machine tool 100B displays the updated tool calibration value based on the updated tool calibration value received from the first machine tool 100A. Thus, the operator can recognize that the tool calibration value has been updated correctly.

[0057] Furthermore, in step S28B, the second machine tool 100B displays images in the "Tool View" based on the static and motion images of the tool received from the first machine tool 100A. This allows the operator to identify which tool's tool correction value has been changed and to confirm the tool's wear and other conditions. It also allows verification of the correctness of the tool registration information for the tool whose tool correction value has been changed. For example, in the first machine tool 100A, although tool information for tool number "1" is registered as a 1cm diameter end mill, when verified through the "Tool View," it can be confirmed that the tool called to the spindle with tool number "1" is a 2cm diameter end mill.

[0058] In step S30, the second machine tool 100B accepts the operation of selecting the machine tool to which the tool calibration value is to be set. For example, in step S30, it is assumed that the second machine tool 100B is selected. Therefore, as... Figure 6 As shown, the screen displaying the "Second Machine" is a screen used to display information about the second machine tool 100B.

[0059] In step S32, the second machine tool 100B acquires its currently set tool calibration value and displays the tool calibration value setting screen on the display 106 of the second operation panel 130B of the second machine tool 100B. The setting screen displayed on the display 106 of the second operation panel 130B is... Figure 6 The image shows "blade offset".

[0060] In step S34, the second machine tool 100B accepts a change operation for the tool calibration value displayed on the setting screen of the second operation panel 130B's display 106. This change operation can be performed by touching the display 106 of the second operation panel 130B or by operating the operation keys 107 of the second operation panel 130B.

[0061] When the tool calibration value change operation is completed, the operator confirms the change on the tool calibration value setting screen. Based on this, in step S36, the second machine tool 100B updates the current tool calibration value it has identified.

[0062] In step S38, the update process based on the tool calibration value of the second machine tool 100B has been completed normally, and the updated tool calibration value is displayed. Thus, the operator can recognize that the tool calibration value has been updated normally. Furthermore, since the operator operates the control panel of the second machine tool 100B, the tool with the updated tool calibration value is retrieved to the tool spindle, allowing the operator to directly visually confirm the tool's condition, thus eliminating the need for camera recording. Alternatively, the tool can be photographed using a camera, and image processing such as red highlighting of the wear condition can be applied before displaying it in the "Tool View".

[0063] As described above, operators can set tool calibration values ​​for multiple machine tools from a single machine tool using a display control system. Therefore, operators do not need to move to each machine tool to set tool calibration values. The more machine tools managed, the more significant the reduction in such movement becomes.

[0064] Furthermore, when there are many changes to the tool calibration values, the operator needs to record the tool calibration values ​​on paper and transport these records. However, if the operator can set the tool calibration values ​​for all machine tools from a single machine tool, then there is no need to transport such records.

[0065] Furthermore, when the workpiece is transported by a robot or similar device, a fence is installed around the machine tool. In this case, the operator does not approach the machine tool during operation. With such a machine tool, the operator can also remotely set tool calibration values ​​from other machine tools without stopping the operation of the work system 10.

[0066] Furthermore, while the example described above illustrates the setting of tool calibration values ​​for the first machine tool 100A within the second machine tool 100B, the setting of tool calibration values ​​for the second machine tool 100B can also be performed within the first machine tool 100A. In this case, the first operation panel 130A of the first machine tool 100A receives the tool calibration value from the second machine tool 100B based on the received request for the tool calibration value, and displays a setting screen for accepting changes to the tool calibration value. Thus, the operator can perform changes to the tool calibration values ​​in the machine tool 100B from the first machine tool 100A.

[0067] In addition, in the above, an example in which the tool correction value regarding the machine tool 100B is sent to the machine tool 100A in step S14 has been described. However, other information including the tool correction value may also be sent to the machine tool 100A. As an example, in step S14, information such as the frame setting of the "Tool Offset" screen, which is the setting screen of the tool correction value displayed in the machine tool 100A, may also be sent to the machine tool 100B. In this case, in step S20, the second machine tool 100B uses the frame setting received from the first machine tool 100A to display the "Tool Offset" screen.

[0068] In addition, in the above, an example in which tool correction values such as the shape parameter 81A and the wear parameter 81B are sent to the machine tool 100B in step S14 has been described. However, the parameters to be sent are not limited to them. As an example, in step S14, the machining program of the machine tool 100A, the number of machined parts in the machine tool 100A, etc. may also be sent to the machine tool 100B. In this case, the machine tool 100B only displays the received machining program and the number of machined parts, and does not accept change operations on them. Thus, the operator can confirm the machining program and the number of machined parts of the machine tool 100A from the machine tool 100B.

[0069] In addition, in the above, an example in which the tool correction value is input to the setting screen 80 has been described. However, the tool correction value does not necessarily need to be input from the setting screen 80. As an example, the tool correction value may also be input to file data such as a CSV file. More specifically, in the file data, the values of the tool correction values are specified for each machine tool, and the operator can change the tool correction value on the file data. After the operator changes the file data, the machine tool 100B reads in the file data. Then, based on the read file data, the machine tool 100B sends the changed tool correction value to the machine tool whose tool correction value is to be changed. Thus, the setting of the tool correction values of each of the machine tools 100 is performed together.

[0070] In addition, the tool correction value does not necessarily need to be manually input. As an example, a measuring device for measuring the shape of the workpiece may be installed in the machine tool, and the machine tool corrects the tool correction value based on the measurement result of this measuring device. In this case, the machine tool pre-holds the shape data related to the machined workpiece, and changes the tool correction value by comparing this shape data with the measurement result of the measuring device. The changed tool correction value is sent to the corresponding machine tool. Thus, the setting of the tool correction value of the machine tool is automatically performed.

[0071] <C. Another example of the setting screen 80 whose display control is performed by the display control system>

[0072] Next, refer to Figure 4 , and an example of the screen whose display control is performed by the display control system will be described.

[0073] Figure 4 This is a screen displaying information related to the first machine tool 100A, controlled by a display control system. In this description, the display control system is part of the structure of the second machine tool 100B and can communicate with both the first and second machine tools 100A, but is not limited to this method. For example, a separate tablet terminal or computer, independent of the first and second machine tools 100A and 100B, can also be the display control system. In this case, the tablet terminal or computer needs to be able to communicate with both the first and second machine tools 100A and 100B. The screen displayed on the monitor of this tablet terminal or computer is, for example... Figure 4 The screen shown is an example of this. Additionally, the display control system can be a computer with server functionality. Furthermore, the display control system can be a desktop computer, a laptop computer, or a tablet terminal.

[0074] about Figure 4 The screen will be explained in detail. The icon in the upper left corner is the always-on button. At the very top of the upper left are the reset button and buttons related to coolant. Below the top are buttons for door unlock, internal lighting, blower, and chip conveyor. A button for selecting the operating mode is located in the upper right corner. From the left of the top section are the AUTO mode button, the MDI (Manual Data Input) mode button, and the lock screen button. When AUTO mode is selected, the display indicator unit of the display control system will display the screen indicating that AUTO mode is enabled. AUTO mode allows for program execution, parameter and data setting, and program editing. When MDI mode is selected, the display indicator unit of the display control system will display the screen indicating that MDI mode is enabled. MDI mode allows for MDI operation and parameter and data setting. MDI operation refers to manually inputting and executing the program. The lower section of the top right corner features buttons for manual jog mode, home return mode, and tool magazine mode. In jog mode, each axis can be moved at a slow, jogging feed rate. Additionally, while the manual axis feed button is pressed, the axis moves in the selected direction at a feed rate set by the feed override switch. When jog mode is selected, the display control unit of the display system shows the screen required for the above operations. In home return mode, each axis can be manually moved to the machine origin.

[0075] exist Figure 4In this case, the MDI mode is selected, and the display instruction unit displays an instruction to display the screen associated with the MDI mode, so that the MDI mode is displayed at the center of the screen. On the left side of the MDI screen, a screen of "Tool View" is displayed. In the "Tool View", still images and moving images of the tool taken by the camera are displayed. On the right side of the MDI screen, a screen of "Tool Management" is displayed. In the present embodiment, information on the tools installed in the tool magazine is displayed on the "Tool Management" screen. In "Tool Management", multiple tool information for managing the tools is registered.

[0076] In Figure 4 this case, the MDI mode is selected, and a program for replacing the tool of the spindle is input in the input screen of the MDI and the program is executed. When the program is executed, the replaced tool is installed on the spindle. An image of the tool installed on the spindle taken by the camera is displayed in the "Tool View" screen. The operator can confirm that the desired tool corresponds to the tool number specified by the program while observing the "Tool View". That is, in the setting stage, the operation of confirming that the tool corresponding to the tool number is the specified tool can be performed even without being in front of the machine tool.

[0077] <Another example of the setting screen 80 for display control by the display control system>

[0078] In Figure 5 this case, the jog mode is selected, and a jog operation panel and "Machine View" are displayed on the screen. The operator can confirm the image from the camera via the "Machine View" while operating the jog. In this case, the operator can perform the operation even without being in front of the machine tool. In addition, when the operator has little experience, a skilled operator can perform the operation remotely, and the operator with little experience can learn the operation in front of the machine tool.

[0079] In Figure 7 this case, the tool magazine mode is selected, and an operation panel of the tool magazine and "Magazine View" are displayed on the screen. The operator can confirm the image from the camera via the "Magazine View" while operating the operation panel of the tool magazine. Thereby, it can be confirmed that the specified tool is stored in the specified tool sleeve of the tool magazine.

[0080] <Another example of the setting screen 80 for display control by the display control system>

[0081] In Figure 8In the case where the door mode is selected, the operation panel of the door and "DOOR VIEW" are displayed on the screen. The operator can operate the door while confirming the image from the camera via "DOOR VIEW".

[0082] <Another example of the setting screen 80 for display control by the display control system>

[0083] If a tool number (for example, "T1") is input in the MDI screen shown based on the operator's operation Figure 4 and the first machine tool 100A inputs / executes the command code for tool change (for example, "M6"), the tool registered with that tool number is assembled on the spindle 117A of the first machine tool 100A. The assembled tool is photographed by the first camera 111A. The photographed image (including the image of the tool) is displayed on the "Tool View" screen next to the MDI screen.

[0084] Next, when a tool number (for example, "T9") is input in the MDI screen and the first machine tool 100A is input with the tool change code (for example, "M6") and the execute button is pressed, the tool change is executed. Here, it is assumed that the tool registered with the tool number "T9" is not stored in the tool magazine.

[0085] In this case, the tool registered with the tool number "T1" of the tool assembled on the spindle 117A is removed from the spindle 117A and stored in the tool magazine. However, since there is no tool with the tool number "T9", the state where no tool is assembled on the spindle 117A is reached. This state is also photographed by the first camera 111A, and the image of this state is displayed on the "Tool View" screen next to the MDI screen. Since no tool is displayed on the "Tool View" screen (specifically, only the spindle is displayed), the operator knows that no tool is assembled on the spindle 117A. In addition, the operator sometimes inputs a tool number without an actual tool in the MDI screen and inputs / executes the NC code for tool change in order to intentionally create a state where no tool is assembled on the spindle.

[0086] In this way, regarding the situation (the tool is not installed on the spindle 117A) that the operator could not know without actually checking the inside of the machine tool 100A in the past, according to the display control system of the present embodiment, it becomes known.

[0087] In addition, in the above, the structure in which the display control system displays the image inside the first machine tool 100A is described as an example, but the same effect can also be obtained when the display control system displays the image inside the second machine tool 100B.

[0088] <Hardware structure of the machine tool 100>

[0089] Reference Figure 9 The hardware structure of machine tool 100 will be described. Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of the hardware structure of machine tool 100.

[0090] The machine tool 100 includes an operation panel 130 and a numerical control device (NC device) 300. The hardware structure of the operation panel 130 and the hardware structure of the NC device 300 will be described below.

[0091] (Hardware structure of G1. Operation panel 130)

[0092] The control panel 130 includes a control unit 101, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 102, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 103, communication interfaces 104 and 105, a display 106, operation keys 107, and an auxiliary storage device 115. These components are connected to the bus 110.

[0093] The control device 101 includes a display control device as part of a display control system. As an example of a display control system, the display control device may be composed of at least one integrated circuit. The integrated circuit may include, for example, at least one CPU (Central Processing Unit), at least one GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), at least one ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), at least one FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array), or combinations thereof.

[0094] The control device 101 controls the operation of the control panel 130 by executing various programs such as the control program 124 and the operating system. The control program 124 also includes programs that perform a portion of the remote setting processing described above. Based on the execution command received from the control program 124, the control device 101 reads the control program 124 from the auxiliary storage device 115 into the RAM 103. The RAM 103 functions as working memory and temporarily stores various data required for executing the control program 124. The display control device sets and displays various modes for the screen within it. Figure 4The display control device shown includes a display instruction unit for setting the MDI (Manual Data Input) modes of multiple machine tools and displaying instructions. Additionally, the display control device includes a display instruction unit that indicates the display of images captured by a camera and images obtained by image processing of the images captured by the camera.

[0095] The LAN (Local Area Network), antenna, and other components are connected to communication interfaces 104 and 105. The control panel 130 communicates with external devices such as the display control device 200 and external machine tools via communication interface 104. Additionally, the control panel 130 communicates with the NC device 300 via communication interface 105.

[0096] The display 106 displays various information related to machining and information related to machine tools and cutting tools, according to instructions from control devices, etc. As an example, the display 106 displays... Figure 4 The image shown.

[0097] The operation keys 107 consist of multiple hardware keys and are used to handle various user operations on the operation panel 130. The signal corresponding to the pressed key is output to the control device 101.

[0098] The auxiliary storage device 115 is, for example, a storage medium such as a hard disk or flash memory. The auxiliary storage device 115 stores the control program 124, etc. The storage location of the control program 124 is not limited to the auxiliary storage device 115, and may also be stored in the storage area of ​​the control device 101 (e.g., buffer memory, etc.), ROM 102, RAM 103, external devices (e.g., server), etc.

[0099] Furthermore, the above description illustrates an example of a hardware structure that includes a control device 101, a ROM 102, a RAM 103, communication interfaces 104 and 105, and an auxiliary storage device 115 within the operation panel 130. However, these hardware structures can also be configured separately from the operation panel 130.

[0100] (Hardware structure of G2.NC device 300)

[0101] Continue to refer to Figure 9 The hardware structure of the NC device 300 is described.

[0102] The NC device 300 includes a control device 301, a ROM 302, a RAM 303, and communication interfaces 304 and 305. These components are connected to a bus 310.

[0103] The control device 301 is constituted by, for example, at least one integrated circuit. The integrated circuit can include, for example, at least one CPU, at least one ASIC, at least one FPGA, or a combination thereof, etc.

[0104] The control device 301 controls the operation of the NC device 300 by executing various programs such as the machining program 324 and the operating system. The machining program 324 is a program for realizing workpiece machining. Based on receiving an execution command of the machining program 324, the control device 301 reads the machining program 324 from the ROM 302 into the RAM 303. The RAM 303 functions as a working memory and temporarily stores various data required for executing the machining program 324.

[0105] The ROM 302 stores the setting value 322 for correcting the movement amount of the tool when machining a workpiece, the machining program 324, etc. The setting value 322 is referred to when executing the machining program 324. The setting value 322 includes, for example, the tool correction value 322A, the macro variable 322B, etc. The storage locations of the setting value 322 and the machining program 324 are not limited to the ROM 302 and can also be stored in the storage area (e.g., buffer memory, etc.) of the control device 301, the RAM 303, an external device (e.g., server), etc.

[0106] A LAN (Local Area Network), an antenna, etc. are connected to the communication interfaces 304, 305. The NC device 300 realizes communication with external devices such as the operation panel 130 via the communication interface 304. In addition, the NC device 300 realizes communication with various drive units (e.g., servo drivers for driving the tool spindle, etc.) for realizing workpiece machining via the communication interface 305.

[0107] <H. Hardware Structure of the Display Control Device 200>

[0108] Next, refer to Figure 10 , and the hardware structure of the display control device 200 will be described. Figure 10 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the hardware structure of the display control device 200.

[0109] The display control device 200 includes a control device 201, a ROM 202, a RAM 203, a communication interface 204, a display interface 205, an input interface 207, and an auxiliary storage device 215. These components are connected to the bus 210. <00002​​​The control device 201 controls the operation of the display control device 200 by executing various programs such as the control program 226 and the operating system. The control program 226 is a program that undertakes a part of the processing in the above-mentioned remote setting process. Based on receiving an execution command for the control program 226, the control device 201 reads the control program 226 from the auxiliary storage device 215 into the RAM 203. The RAM 203 functions as a working memory and temporarily stores various data required for executing the control program 226.

[0112] The LAN (Local Area Network), antenna, etc. are connected to the communication interface 2*.* The display control device 200 realizes communication with external devices such as the machine tool 100 via the communication interface 204.

[0113] The display 206 is connected to the display interface 205. The display interface 205 sends an image signal for displaying an image to the display 206 according to instructions from the control device 101, etc. The display 206 is, for example, a liquid crystal display, an organic EL display, or other display devices. For example, the above-mentioned setting screen 80, etc. is displayed on the display 206. In addition, the display 206 can be integrally formed with the display control device 200 or can be independently formed from the display control device 200.

[0114] The input device 208 is connected to the input interface 207. The input device 208 is, for example, a mouse, a keyboard, a touch panel, or other devices that can accept user operations. In addition, the input device 208 can be integrally formed with the display control device 200 or can be independently formed from the display control device 200.

[0115] The auxiliary storage device 215 is, for example, a storage medium such as a hard disk or a flash memory. The auxiliary storage device 215 stores the control program 226, etc. The storage location of the control program 226 is not limited to the auxiliary storage device 215 and can also be stored in the storage area of the control device 201 (for example, a buffer memory, etc.), the ROM 202, the RAM 203, an external device (for example, a server), etc.

[0116] <I. Variation Example of the Display Control System>

[0117] So far, the display control system has been described using a hardware display control device, but it is not limited to this. The display control system can also be software such as a program. Therefore, the display control system can also be executed via multiple personal computers.

[0118] The display control system described above needs to be able to communicate with multiple machine tools, but it can also be a structure that can communicate with at least one machine tool. In other words, the ability to remotely operate a single machine tool is also included in this invention. If the structure can communicate with a single machine tool, the operator can check the tool settings, etc., from a remote tablet terminal, thus eliminating the need for the operator to stand in front of the machine tool's control panel.

[0119] As described above, the operator can check the status of the machine tool 100 through the operation screen of the other machine tool 100 (the screen displayed on the control panel). However, it is not limited to this structure. The operation screen may not be the screen displayed on the control panel, but rather the screen of a tablet PC (Personal Computer) or smartphone. In addition, the control panel of the other machine tool 100 may also be a movable structure that can be attached to and detached from the main body of the other machine tool 100.

[0120] The embodiments disclosed herein should be considered illustrative rather than restrictive in all respects. The scope of the invention is set forth not by the foregoing description but by the claims, and is intended to include all modifications within the meaning and scope equivalent to the claims.

[0121] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0122] 10: Working system; 50: Conveying device; 51: Arm-type robot; 52: Automated guided vehicle; 80: Setting screen; 81A: Shape parameters; 81B: Wear parameters; 82: Tool number; 100A, 100B: Machine tool; 101, 201, 301: Control device; 102, 202, 302: ROM; 103, 203, 303: RAM; 104, 105, 204, 304, 305: Communication interface; 106, 206: Display; 107: Operation keys; 110, 210, 310: Bus; 111A: First camera; 11 1B: Second camera; 113A, 113B, 116A, 116B: Door opening and closing; 115, 215: Auxiliary storage devices; 117A, 117B: Spindle; 118A, 118B: Machining area; 124, 226: Control program; 130: Operation panel; 130A: First operation panel; 130B: Second operation panel; 200: Display control device; 205: Display interface; 207: Input interface; 208: Input device; 300: NC device; 322: Set value; 322A: Tool correction value; 322B: Macro variable; 324: Machining program.

Claims

1. A display control system that performs display control of a screen provided to a first machine tool or a screen of a terminal independent of the first machine tool and a second machine tool, the display control system comprising: a first display instruction unit that performs display instruction of a mode of the second machine tool on the screen; a second display instruction unit that performs display instruction of a tool image captured by a camera attached to the second machine tool on the screen; and a control unit that performs display control of the tool image corresponding to tool association information associated with a tool of the second machine tool acquired from the camera by receiving input of the tool association information on the mode, the tool association information including any one of a tool number, a tool pocket number of a tool magazine that stores a tool, a work station number of a turret on which a tool is mounted, and a tool correction value.

2. A display control system that is capable of communicating with a first machine tool and a second machine tool and performs display control of a screen provided to the second machine tool or a screen of a terminal independent of the first machine tool and the second machine tool, the first machine tool including a camera, the display control system comprising: a first display instruction unit that performs display instruction of a first mode of the first machine tool on the screen; a second display instruction unit that performs display instruction of a second mode of the second machine tool on the screen; a third display instruction unit that performs display instruction of a tool image captured by the camera on the screen; and a control unit that performs display control of the tool image corresponding to tool association information associated with a tool of the first machine tool acquired from the camera by receiving input of the tool association information on the first mode, the tool association information including any one of a tool number, a tool pocket number of a tool magazine that stores a tool, a work station number of a turret on which a tool is mounted, and a tool correction value.

3. The display control system according to claim 2, wherein, in a case where the tool association information including the tool number is input, a tool associated with the tool number is mounted to a spindle of the first machine tool, the tool is captured by the camera, or, in a case where the tool association information including the tool pocket number of the tool magazine that stores a tool is input, a tool stored in a tool pocket of the tool pocket number is captured by the camera, or, in a case where the tool association information including the work station number of the turret on which a tool is mounted is input, a tool mounted to a work station of the work station number is captured by the camera. ​ wherein ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​

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