Grinding / polishing device with calling function

Abstract

A grinder / polisher includes a sample holder, a platen, an actuator configured to move at least one of the sample holder and the platen, an input device, a machine-readable storage device, and a controller. The input device includes a plurality of quick call inputs and is configured to receive grinding / polishing parameter inputs representative of grinding / polishing parameters including at least two of a cycle time, a platen speed, a sample speed, a platen direction, a sample direction, and an applied load. The quick call inputs are selectable on the same interface as the user parameter inputs. The controller is configured to: save a plurality of user-selected grinding / polishing parameters to the machine-readable storage device based on inputs received by the input device; associate the parameters with one of the plurality of quick call inputs; configure the parameters in response to selection of the quick call input; and perform operations in accordance with the parameters.

Description

[0001] Related applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 17 / 208,490, filed March 22, 2021, entitled “GRINDING / POLISHING DEVICES WITH RECALL [Grinding / Polishing Apparatus with Recall Function]”, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63 / 002,923, filed March 31, 2020, entitled “GRINDING / POLISHING DEVICES WITH RECALL [Grinding / Polishing Apparatus with Recall Function]”. The entire contents of U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 17 / 208,490 and U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63 / 002,923 are expressly incorporated herein by reference. Background Technology

[0003] This disclosure generally relates to grinding / polishing systems, and more particularly to grinding / polishing apparatuses with recall functionality.

[0004] Grinding and polishing operations are performed on samples for a variety of purposes and across diverse sectors and industries. In some applications, surface preparation of samples by grinding / polishing operations is a prerequisite for sample testing (such as microscopic examination) relied upon when testing materials and components in manufacturing departments. Grinding / polishing equipment is capable of performing both grinding and polishing operations to process samples to the surface finish required for a specific application.

[0005] As anticipated, there will remain a need for grinding / polishing apparatus and methods that can process samples to desired specifications within the tolerances required for the application. However, user control over grinding / polishing apparatus is often limited. Typically, grinding / polishing apparatus can be difficult to set up and control, requiring considerable setup time to meet various requirements. This inefficiency, along with other issues, can burden users and lead to lost time and increased operating costs. Providing improved grinding / polishing apparatus and methods would be beneficial. Summary of the Invention

[0006] In one embodiment, a grinding / polishing machine includes: a sample holder configured to hold a sample; a stage; an actuator configured to move at least one of the sample holder and the stage; and an input device including a plurality of quick-call inputs and configured to receive grinding / polishing parameter inputs representing grinding / polishing parameters, including at least two of cycle time, stage speed, sample speed, stage orientation, sample orientation, and applied load. The quick-call inputs can be selected on the same interface as the user parameter inputs. In another embodiment, a machine-readable storage device and a controller are present. The controller is configured to: save a plurality of user-selected grinding / polishing parameters to the machine-readable storage device based on the grinding / polishing parameter inputs received by the input device; and associate the plurality of user-selected grinding / polishing parameters with one of the quick-call inputs. The controller can be further configured to: in response to selecting one of a plurality of fast-call inputs, configure grinding / polishing parameters based on grinding / polishing parameters associated with the selected input stored in a machine-readable storage device; and control the actuator to perform grinding / polishing operations according to the configured grinding / polishing parameters.

[0007] The grinder / polisher may further include a water distributor configured to supply cooling water to the sample, wherein the grinding / polishing parameters further include water on / off switching. In such an embodiment, the controller is further configured to control the water distributor based on a selected cycle time and water on / off switching. In other embodiments, the actuator includes a motor and a drive actuator, and the controller is configured to control the motor to rotate at least one of the sample holder and the stage according to the selected grinding / polishing parameters. In the example, the controller is also configured to drive the actuator to press one of the sample and the stage into the other of the sample and the stage according to a selected applied load.

[0008] In some embodiments, the grinder / polisher includes a fluid dispenser configured to supply fluid to the sample, and the grinder / polish parameters further include fluid on / off and fluid dispensing rate. The controller may be further configured to control the fluid dispenser based on selected cycle time, fluid on / off, and fluid dispensing rate. In embodiments, the input device is a touchscreen display configured to display quick access inputs and multiple grinder / polish parameters, and may include a main screen.

[0009] The controller can also be configured to save multiple user-selected grinding / polishing parameters to a machine-readable storage device when the user selects and holds one of multiple quick-call inputs. In an embodiment, at least one of the multiple quick-call inputs is accessible without accessing the menu of the input device, and in an embodiment, is immediately accessible to the user. The grinding / polishing parameters may also include at least one of cycle time, stage speed and sample speed, at least one of stage orientation and sample orientation, and applied load.

[0010] In one embodiment, a non-transitory machine-readable storage device includes machine-readable instructions that, when executed, cause a controller to: save a plurality of user-selected grinding / polishing parameters to the machine-readable storage device based on grinding / polishing parameter inputs received from an input device; associate the plurality of user-selected grinding / polishing parameters with one of a plurality of quick-call inputs of the input device; configure the grinding / polishing parameters based on the grinding / polishing parameters associated with the selected quick-call input stored in the machine-readable storage device in response to the input device selecting one of the plurality of quick-call inputs; and control an actuator of a grinder / polisher to perform a grinding / polishing operation according to the configured grinding / polishing parameters, the actuator being configured to move at least one of a sample holder and a stage of the grinder / polisher. In such an embodiment, the grinding / polishing parameters may include at least two of cycle time, stage speed, sample speed, stage orientation, sample orientation, and applied load.

[0011] The grinding / polishing parameters may further include at least one of water on / off, and these instructions, when executed, cause the controller to control the water distributor according to the selected cycle time and water on / off. In an embodiment, the actuator includes a motor and a drive actuator, and these instructions, when executed, cause the controller to control the motor to rotate at least one of the sample holder and the stage according to the selected grinding / polishing parameters, and to control the drive actuator to press one of the sample and the stage into the other of the sample and the stage according to the selected applied load. In other embodiments, the grinder / polisher further includes a fluid distributor configured to supply fluid to the sample, and the grinding / polishing parameters further include fluid on / off and fluid distribution rate, and these instructions, when executed, cause the controller to control the fluid distributor according to the selected cycle time, fluid on / off, and fluid distribution rate.

[0012] In a further embodiment of the non-transitory machine-readable storage device, the input device includes a touchscreen display, and the instructions, when executed, cause the controller to display quick-call inputs and multiple grinding / polishing parameters on the touchscreen display. In yet another embodiment, the instructions, when executed, cause the controller to display a main screen on the touchscreen display, wherein at least one of the multiple quick-call inputs is displayed on the main screen and is selectable from the main screen. In another aspect, the instructions, when executed, cause the controller to save multiple user-selected grinding / polishing parameters to a machine-readable storage device when the user selects and holds one of the multiple quick-call inputs. In embodiments, the multiple quick-call inputs are accessible without accessing the menu of the input device, and in embodiments, are immediately accessible to the user. In embodiments, the grinding / polishing parameters include at least one of cycle time, stage speed and sample speed, at least one of stage orientation and sample orientation, and applied load. Attached Figure Description

[0013] Figure 1 An example grinding / polishing apparatus is shown.

[0014] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A block diagram of the components of the grinding / polishing apparatus.

[0015] Figure 3 Showing Figure 1 Example input device for a grinding / polishing apparatus.

[0016] Figure 4 A flowchart illustrating a method using a grinding / polishing apparatus is provided.

[0017] Figure 5 A flowchart illustrating a method using a grinding / polishing apparatus is provided.

[0018] The accompanying drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale. Where appropriate, similar or identical reference numerals are used to indicate similar or identical elements. Detailed Implementation

[0019] This disclosure generally relates to systems, methods, and apparatus for grinding / polishing devices. Preferred embodiments will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Well-known functions or constructions are not described in detail in the following description, as such description would obscure the disclosure due to unnecessary detail.

[0020] To facilitate an understanding of the principles of the claimed technology and to present its best operating mode as currently understood, reference will now be made to the embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings, and these embodiments will be described using specific language. However, it should be understood that this is not intended to limit the scope of the claimed technology, as any changes and further modifications to the principles of the claimed technology, the illustrated apparatus, and these further applications are those commonly conceived by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the claimed technology pertains.

[0021] As used herein, the term "exemplary" means "serving as an example, instance, or illustration." The embodiments described herein are not limiting but merely exemplary. It should be understood that the described embodiments are not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments. Moreover, the term "embodiment" does not require that all disclosed embodiments include the features, advantages, or modes of operation discussed.

[0022] As used herein, the terms “circuit” and “circuit system” refer to physical electronic components (i.e., hardware) and any software and / or firmware (“code”) that can configure, be executed by, and / or otherwise associate with the hardware. As used herein, for example, a particular processor and memory may include a first “circuit” when executing a first set of one or more lines of code, and a second “circuit” may be included when executing a second set of one or more lines of code. As used herein, “and / or” refers to any one or more items in a list connected by “and / or”. For example, “x and / or y” refers to any element in the three-element set {(x), (y), (x, y)}. In other words, “x and / or y” means “one or both of x and y”. As another example, “x, y, and / or z” refers to any element in the seven-element set {(x), (y), (z), (x, y), (x, z), (y, z), (x, y, z)}. In other words, “x, y, and / or z” means “one or more of x, y, and z”. As used herein, the term "exemplary" means used as a non-limiting example, instance, or illustration. As used herein, the terms "e.g." and "for example" refer to a list of one or more examples, instances, or illustrations. As used herein, a circuit system is "operable" to perform a function whenever it includes the hardware and code necessary to perform that function, if necessary, regardless of whether the performance of that function is disabled or not enabled (e.g., through operator-configurable settings, factory adjustments, etc.).

[0023] Figures 1 to 3 An example of a grinding / polishing apparatus for performing grinding and polishing operations on a workpiece or sample is shown. (Reference) Figure 1 The grinding / polishing apparatus 100 includes: a power head assembly 102 having a sample holder 112 with a sample 116 (one shown); a cabinet or base 104 with a bowl-shaped portion 106; and a controller 190. Figure 2 ); and input device or unit control panel 122.

[0024] Continue to refer to Figure 1 In the depicted embodiment, the bowl-shaped portion 106 forms an opening in the base 104. The bowl-shaped portion 106 includes a removable bowl-shaped portion liner (not shown), such as a transparent plastic bowl-shaped portion liner, to prevent the accumulation of residues, contaminants, and residues in the bowl-shaped portion. A splash guard (109) may be further provided around the bowl-shaped portion 106 to contain fluid within the bowl-shaped portion and minimize excessive spraying, and to prevent items from accidentally entering the bowl-shaped portion or contacting moving parts of the grinding and polishing apparatus, such as the table 108 or the sample holder 112.

[0025] A platform 108 is mounted in a bowl-shaped portion 106. A pad 110 is secured to the top of the platform 108 and configured to contact the sample 116 during a grinding / polishing cycle. Many types of pads 110 can be used in grinding / polishing operations. For example, the pad 110 can be a grinding disc, such as a silicon carbide grinding disc or a diamond grinding disc. In other embodiments, the pad 110 can be a polishing pad. The platform 108 is operatively connected to an actuator 117 ( Figure 2 As an example, the underside of the platform may include openings for receiving drive pins on the top of the actuator's drive plate to secure the platform to the actuator; however, many other mechanisms may also be used to secure the platform to the actuator.

[0026] During the grinding / polishing operation, actuator 117 is controlled by controller 190 to rotate, reciprocate, or otherwise move the stage 108 to process the sample 116. In one embodiment, actuator 117 is a bidirectional motor configured to rotate the stage 108 at a selected speed and in either direction. In other embodiments, actuator includes a motor operable to oscillate or otherwise move the stage to process the sample. In some embodiments, actuator may be further configured to move the stage toward or away from the sample to adjust the load or force applied between the stage and the sample (e.g., a linear actuator is controlled to move or drive the stage toward and away from the sample). Many types of actuators can be used to facilitate the grinding / polishing operation.

[0027] The power head assembly 102 is secured to the base 104 and positions the sample holder 112 relative to the platform 108. In the depicted embodiment, the sample holder 112 includes a plurality of sample receiving slots 114 that hold a sample 116 (one shown in the figure) undergoing a grinding / polishing operation performed by the device 100. The sample holder 112 is operatively connected to the actuator 118 of the power head assembly 102. Figure 2 In the illustrated embodiment, the sample holder 112 is detachably secured to the actuator 118 via a chuck 115. During the grinding / polishing operation, the actuator 118 is controlled by a controller 190 to rotate, reciprocate, or otherwise move the sample holder 112 (and the sample 116) relative to the stage 108 (and the pad 110), thereby processing the sample 116. In the illustrated embodiment, the actuator 118 includes a bidirectional motor configured to rotate the sample holder 112 at a selected speed and in either direction, and the actuator further includes a linear actuator configured to press the sample holder 112 (together with the sample 116) toward or away from the stage 108 to adjust the load or force applied between the sample and the stage. In other embodiments, the actuator is configured to reciprocate or move the sample holder 112 relative to the stage during operation. Any desired actuator can be used.

[0028] A fluid distributor 120 is located on a base 104 and is positioned to distribute water, and in the depicted embodiment, other types of fluids can be distributed to a platform 108. Fluid distributed to the platform 108 can be collected in a bowl-shaped portion 106 and discharged as needed. The distributor includes valves that can be operated to control the distribution flow rate. In an embodiment, a controller 190 operates the distributor to open and close the distributor and adjust the flow rate. In the illustrated embodiment, a manual control knob 121 is also located on the base 106 and is operable to control the volume of the flow rate delivered by the distributor 120.

[0029] Dispensable fluids may include, for example, water, suspensions including diamond and other suspensions, polishing suspensions, lubricants, and other fluids. In some embodiments, one or more fluids may be supplied by one or more dispensers. In embodiments dispensing multiple fluids (such as water and another type of fluid), water and (multiple) other fluids are supplied by corresponding supply lines (not shown), such as water supply lines and fluid supply lines. In embodiments, water and other fluids are supplied from reservoirs or tanks located on the device or at a distance. The controller may also provide automatic control of the fluids, which can be selected by the user at a control panel. In embodiments, controller 190 operates the dispenser to open and close the dispenser and adjust the flow rate.

[0030] While in the depicted embodiment the dispenser can dispense water from one nozzle and another type of fluid from the illustrated second nozzle, in other embodiments the second nozzle may be a component of a second dispenser, existing as a separate unit and separate from the base 104. In such embodiments, the fluid flow may be controlled by the separate unit, for example, manually by a knob or controller of the separate dispenser unit. The second nozzle may be positioned alongside the device 100 and, in some embodiments, fixed to the base 104.

[0031] The unit control panel 122 displays data and information about the grinding / polishing apparatus and receives input from the user. In embodiments, the unit control panel may include various buttons, knobs, switches, sliders, displays, touchscreens, touchpads, lights, markers, etc., to display information and receive user input. The unit control panel may further include other components such as peripherals, audio circuitry and speakers, microphones, communication devices (wired or wireless), and other components as will be recognized. In the depicted embodiment, the unit control panel 122 has a touch-sensitive display 124.

[0032] Turning Figure 2 The control circuitry or controller 190 includes circuitry (e.g., microcontrollers and memory, such as non-transitory machine-readable storage device 191) operable for processing data from actuators 117, 118, distributor 120, and unit control panel 122. For example, controller 190 may include multiple processors and / or other logic circuitry for controlling the operation of the grinding / polishing apparatus. Examples of processors may include one or more microprocessors, such as one or more "general-purpose" microprocessors, one or more special-purpose microprocessors and / or ASICs, one or more microcontrollers, and / or any other type of processing and / or logic device. For example, controller 190 may include one or more digital signal processors (DSPs). Controller 190 is operable to receive user input signals from unit control panel 122 and, in response, control components of the grinding / polishing apparatus, such as actuators, distributors, their components, and other elements of the apparatus.

[0033] Go to Figure 3 In the illustrated embodiment, the unit control panel 122 includes a touchscreen display 124 with an operator-oriented graphical user interface 126. In this embodiment, the graphical user interface 126 provides various screens that display information and control of the grinding / polishing apparatus, including various grinding / polishing parameters. The graphical user interface 126 may have many different screens, menus, display formats, etc., which can be selected by the user to view information and provide input.

[0034] The graphical user interface 126 may further include a home screen 128, which in an embodiment is, for example, the default screen displayed by the control panel 122 when the device is powered on. The home screen 128 provides information to the user and allows user input that is immediately accessible, for example, without requiring navigation to other screens, navigating menus, etc. In an embodiment, the home screen 128 is displayed by default when the device is powered on. In other embodiments, Figure 3 The content of the example main screen 128 is provided on one or more screens accessible via one or more navigation actions on interface 126.

[0035] The main screen 128 may include numerous grinding / polishing parameter inputs associated with various grinding / polishing parameters, such as the depicted grinding / polishing parameter inputs 130 to 142. These grinding / polishing parameter inputs allow the user to adjust various grinding / polishing parameters used for the grinding / polishing operation. Example grinding / polishing parameters include device cycle on / off and cycle time, stage speed (e.g., the number of rotations or reciprocations per minute of a rotating or reciprocating stage), direction of stage rotation, sample holder speed (e.g., the number of rotations or reciprocations per minute of a rotating or reciprocating sample holder), direction of sample holder rotation, fluid dispenser on / off (e.g., water dispenser and / or dispensers for fluids other than water are on / off), fluid dispenser flow rate, applied load (e.g., the force applied between the stage and the sample by, for example, pressing the stage or sample holder against another stage or sample holder using an actuator), and so on.

[0036] Grinding / polishing parameters can be adjusted in various ways using parameter inputs 130 to 142. For example, parameters can be toggled between selected and unselected by pressing an input on the touchscreen. Inputs 130 to 142 can change their appearance, for example, by changing color or brightness, changing markings, or any other change indicating that the input has been toggled. In an embodiment, parameters can be adjusted by selecting parameter inputs 130 to 142 associated with a specific grinding / polishing parameter that the user wants to change on display 124, and by adjusting the value associated with the parameter up or down by selecting adjustment inputs 152 or 154 respectively, until the desired value is achieved. Figure 3 In the depicted embodiment, adjustment inputs 152 and 154 have arrow-shaped markings to indicate upward adjustment (e.g., increasing the value) and downward adjustment (e.g., decreasing the value). Any desired markings can be used to convey the function of the inputs.

[0037] In the illustrated embodiment, parameter inputs 130 to 142 also display grinding / polishing parameter information 160 to 172 associated with the parameters. In this embodiment, parameter information 160 to 172 is updated as the parameters are selected back and forth by the user (e.g., selected / unselected) or adjusted. Depending on the specific grinding / polishing parameter associated with the input, parameter information 160 to 172 may include on / off state, selected cycle time (e.g., "10 minutes", "0:10", etc.), selected rotational or reciprocating speed (e.g., "50 revolutions per minute (rpm)", "80 rpm", etc.), on / off state, direction of rotation (e.g., indicated by an arrow), applied load (e.g., "8 pounds (lbs)", "35.5 Newtons (N)", etc.), and so on.

[0038] exist Figure 3 In a specific embodiment, grinding / polishing parameters are assigned to each parameter input 130 to 142. Parameter input 130 is a cycle time input and is adjustable to set the amount of time that the controller 190 will control the grinding / polishing apparatus to operate for one cycle. Cycle time input 130 may include markers, such as... Figure 3 The depicted clock sign, or other markings, such as text, numbers, characters, graphics, etc., convey to the user that the input is associated with a cycle time. The parameter information 160 of the cycle time input 130 displays the current time setting of the cycle (e.g., 10 minutes, 12 minutes, etc.). To adjust the cycle time, the user can select the cycle time input 130 and then press adjustment inputs 152 or 154 to adjust the time up or down. The parameter information 160 will change as the user adjusts the cycle time using adjustment inputs 152, 154. In one example, pressing adjustment inputs 152, 154 adjusts the time in 10-second increments. In other examples, the time can be adjusted in increments of 1 second, 30 seconds, 1 minute, or any other desired increment. In some embodiments, the time can also be manually entered, for example, using a numeric keypad or a keyboard on the screen.

[0039] Parameter input 132 is a table speed input and is adjustable to set the speed at which the controller 190 operates the actuator 117 to rotate the table during a cycle. Table speed input 132 includes graphical markers indicating the table speed, but any other markers may be used. Parameter information 162 of table speed input 132 displays the current speed setting for the cycle (e.g., 50 rpms, 80 rpms, 0 rpms / off, etc.). Table speed input 132 can be selected, and the speed can be adjusted using adjustment inputs 152, 154, or another input such as a numeric keypad or keyboard.

[0040] Parameter input 134 is the sample holder speed input and is adjustable to set the speed at which the controller 190 operates the actuator 118 to rotate the sample holder during a cycle. Sample holder speed input 134 includes graphical markings indicating the sample holder speed, but any other markings may be used. Parameter information 164 of sample holder speed input 134 may include the current speed setting for the cycle (e.g., 50 rpms, 80 rpms, 0 rpms / off, etc.). Sample holder speed input 134 can also be selected and its speed adjusted using adjustment inputs 152, 154, or another input such as a numeric keypad or keyboard.

[0041] Parameter input 136 is a rotation direction input and is adjustable to set the rotation direction in which the controller 190 operates actuators 117 and / or 118 during a cycle to rotate the platform and / or sample holder. Rotation direction input 136 can be adjusted by selecting the input back and forth, for example, by pressing rotation direction input 136 on a touchscreen. In an embodiment, direction input 136 can be adjusted by selecting the input and adjusting these adjustment inputs 152, 154. The rotation direction of the platform and / or sample holder is displayed at parameter information 166. In an embodiment, parameter information 166 includes an arrow indicating the direction, but any marking indicating the rotation direction of the platform and / or sample holder may be desired.

[0042] In this embodiment, parameter input 138 is a load input and is adjustable to set the force or load between the stage and the sample by causing the controller 190 to operate actuators 117 and / or 118 during a cycle to press the stage or sample holder into the other stage or sample holder. Load input 138 may include markings, such as... Figure 3 The force indicator, or other desired indicator, is displayed to convey to the user that the input is associated with a load setting. Parameter information 168 of load input 130 displays the applied force or load (e.g., 8 lbs, 35 N, etc.). To adjust the load, the user can select load input 138 and then press adjustment input 152 or 154 to adjust the force or load up or down. Parameter information 168 will change as the user adjusts the load using adjustment inputs 152, 154. In one example, pressing adjustment inputs 152, 154 adjusts the load in 1-lb increments. In other examples, the load can be adjusted in increments of 0.5 lbs, 2 lbs, etc. In some embodiments, the load can also be manually entered, for example, using a numeric keypad or an on-screen keyboard.

[0043] In the depicted embodiment, parameter inputs 140 and 142 are fluid distributor inputs, one for water and the other for another type of fluid. Each parameter input is selectable to cause controller 190 to operate distributor 120 to distribute water and / or other fluids during a cycle. Flow rate, on / off status, or other information associated with the distributor can be displayed at parameter information 170 and 172. Flow rate and on / off status are adjustable, for example, by selecting desired inputs 140 and 142 and adjusting them with adjustment inputs 152 and 154.

[0044] The graphical user interface 126 further includes numerous other inputs, menus, settings, etc. For example, in the depicted embodiment, the main screen 128 includes input 143 for accessing various menus, settings, and other data screens. The main screen further includes a start loop input 144, which can be selected after all desired parameter inputs 130 to 142 have been selected and / or adjusted as desired to initiate a grinding / polishing loop. When a grinding / polishing loop is initiated, the controller 190 operates actuators 117, 118, and distributor 120 to perform a grinding / polishing loop on one or more samples 116 as appropriate, based on the grinding / polishing parameters. The loop can also be run based on other parameters, which may be default-set, pre-programmed, or possibly user-unadjustable. The loop runs for a duration selected by the loop time input 130, or until the user manually stops the loop, for example, by using the stop loop input 146. In embodiments, other inputs can be used in and / or outside the graphical user interface to indicate or stop the loop. For example, refer to Figure 1 In addition to or replacing the start / stop input on the graphical user interface, the device may include a start button 148 for starting the cycle and a stop button 150 for stopping the cycle.

[0045] Back Figure 3 The main screen 128 of the depicted graphical user interface 126 also includes a number of quick recall inputs 180 to 188. Quick recall inputs 180 to 188 may include markers such as logos, numbers, characters, graphics, etc. Users can operate the user interface to cause the controller to save current grinding / polishing parameters to memory and assign these parameters to one of the quick recall inputs 180 to 188. By selecting the quick recall input associated with the desired parameters, the saved parameters can be quickly recalled directly from the main screen.

[0046] More specifically, in an embodiment, a user can adjust one or more grinding / polishing parameters, such as those associated with the various parameter inputs 130 to 142, by selecting or repeatedly selecting various parameter inputs 130 to 142 and adjusting parameter values, for example, using adjustment inputs 152 and 154. This adjustment may be desired for a specific grinding / polishing cycle. The user can then operate the unit control panel 122 to save the selected parameters to memory and assign the selected parameters to specific quick-recall inputs. In an embodiment, the controller 190 saves the parameters to memory or storage device 191. Figure 2 And when the user presses and holds the quick call input for a period of time (e.g., one second or another pre-selected time), the parameters are assigned to quick call inputs 180 to 188.

[0047] The graphical user interface 126 can indicate to the user that parameters have been saved to memory and assigned to quick access inputs, for example, through changes in markers on the quick access inputs, dialogues, etc. Each of the quick access inputs 180 to 188 can be programmed in a similar manner to associate the quick access input with multiple desired grinding / polishing parameters.

[0048] Although Figure 3 Five quick access inputs are shown, but any number can be used. In this embodiment, the quick access inputs are on the main screen of the graphical user interface so that they are quickly and immediately accessible to the user without requiring, for example, navigating through a menu system of the user interface. In this embodiment, the quick access inputs appear on the main screen and are present by default when the device is powered on. In other embodiments, the quick access inputs may be additionally or alternatively located on other screens and within other menus, which may be as different users would expect.

[0049] Users can execute grinding / polishing procedures by sequentially pressing various quick-call inputs as needed, where the loop associated with each quick-call input represents a step in the program. For example, an operator can first program quick-call inputs 180 through 188 and then press inputs 180 through 188 sequentially to execute the loop associated with each input. In one embodiment, the user waits for the previous loop to complete and then presses the next quick-call input to begin the next step in the loop, and so on, until the end. In an embodiment, a program comprising multiple steps (each associated with a single quick-call input) can be automatically executed by the controller as the user selects each step. Furthermore, any number of quick-call inputs can be pre-programmed, for example, by the manufacturer to enable the user to execute grinding / polishing cycles. Any of the parameter inputs can also have pre-programmed values ​​selectable from the unit control panel. Numerous control and operation methods can be used in conjunction with the parameter inputs and quick-call inputs.

[0050] Figure 4 The image illustrates a method 200 for operating a grinding / polishing apparatus, the method comprising executing machine-readable instructions to cause a controller to perform steps 202 through 208. Step 202 includes saving a plurality of user-selected grinding / polishing parameters to a machine-readable storage device based on grinding / polishing parameter input received from an input device, the grinding / polishing parameters including at least two of cycle time, stage speed, sample speed, stage orientation, sample orientation, and applied load. Step 204 includes associating the plurality of user-selected grinding / polishing parameters with one of a plurality of quick-call inputs from the input device. Step 206 includes configuring the grinding / polishing parameters based on the grinding / polishing parameters stored in the machine-readable storage device and associated with the selected one of the plurality of quick-call inputs, in response to a selection of one of the quick-call inputs by the user interface input device. Step 208 includes controlling an actuator of the grinding / polishing machine to perform a grinding / polishing operation according to the configured grinding / polishing parameters, the actuator being configured to move at least one of the sample holder and stage of the grinding / polishing machine.

[0051] Figure 5 Method 300 for operating a grinder / polisher includes: (i) a sample holder configured to hold a sample; (ii) a platform; (iii) an actuator configured to move at least one of the sample holder and the platform; (iii) an input device including a plurality of quick-call inputs and configured to receive grinding / polishing parameter inputs representing grinding / polishing parameters, wherein the grinding / polishing parameters include at least two of cycle time, platform speed, sample speed, platform orientation, sample orientation, and applied load, and wherein the quick-call inputs are selectable on the same interface as the user parameter inputs; (iv) a machine-readable storage device; and (v) a controller.

[0052] According to method 300, step 302 includes saving a plurality of user-selected grinding / polishing parameters to a machine-readable storage device based on grinding / polishing parameter input received by the input device. Step 304 includes associating the plurality of user-selected grinding / polishing parameters with one of the quick-call inputs. Step 306 includes selecting one of the quick-call inputs. Step 308 includes configuring the grinding / polishing parameters based on the grinding / polishing parameters stored in the machine-readable storage device and associated with the selected one of the plurality of quick-call inputs. Step 310 includes controlling the actuator to perform a grinding / polishing operation according to the configured grinding / polishing parameters.

[0053] In one embodiment, steps 306 and 308 are repeated to program multiple quick-call inputs, and step 310 is repeated for each quick-call input to perform, for example, multiple grinding / polishing operations sequentially, where each operation represents a step in the program. By repeating step 310 for each quick-call input, the entire program can be executed.

[0054] The described methods and systems can be implemented using hardware, software, or a combination of hardware and software. These methods and / or systems can be implemented centrally on at least one computing system or distributedly across several interconnected computing systems with different elements spread across them. Any kind of computing system or other device suitable for performing the methods described herein is suitable. A typical combination of hardware and software may include a general-purpose computing system having a program or other code that, when loaded and executed, controls the computing system to cause it to perform the methods described herein. Another typical implementation may include an application-specific integrated circuit or chip. Some implementations may include a non-transitory machine-readable (e.g., computer-readable) medium (e.g., a flash drive, optical disc, magnetic disk, etc.) storing one or more lines of machine-executable code that enables the machine to perform the processes described herein.

[0055] The foregoing description and accompanying drawings illustrate the principles, preferred embodiments, and modes of operation. However, this disclosure should not be construed as limited to the specific embodiments discussed above. Those skilled in the art will appreciate additional variations to the embodiments discussed above.

[0056] Although this method and / or system has been described with reference to certain embodiments, those skilled in the art will understand that various changes can be made and equivalents can be substituted without departing from the scope of this method and / or system. Furthermore, many modifications can be made to adapt particular situations or materials to the teachings of this disclosure without departing from the scope of this disclosure. For example, the frames and / or components of the disclosed examples can be combined, divided, rearranged, and / or otherwise modified. Therefore, this method and / or system is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed. Instead, this method and / or system will include all embodiments that fall within the scope of the appended claims, both literally and according to the principle of equivalents. While the controller and method are described for use in conjunction with a grinding / polishing apparatus, these teachings can be similarly applied to other apparatuses where it is desirable to determine control of grinding and / or polishing operations.

[0057] All documents cited in this article (including journal articles or abstracts, publications or corresponding U.S. or foreign patent applications, issuances or foreign patents, or any other documents) are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety, including all data, tables, figures and text presented in the cited documents.

Claims

1. A grinding / polishing machine, comprising: A sample holder configured to hold a sample; tabletop; An actuator configured to move at least one of the sample holder and the stage; An input device comprising a plurality of quick-call inputs and configured to receive grinding / polishing parameter inputs representing grinding / polishing parameters, the grinding / polishing parameters including at least two of cycle time, stage speed, sample speed, stage orientation, sample orientation, and applied load, wherein the quick-call inputs can be selected on the same interface as the user parameter input; Machine-readable storage device; as well as The controller is configured to: Based on the grinding / polishing parameter input received by the input device, multiple user-selected grinding / polishing parameters are saved to the machine-readable storage device; Associate the plurality of user-selected grinding / polishing parameters with one of the plurality of quick-call inputs; In response to the selection of one of the plurality of quick-call inputs, the grinding / polishing parameters are configured based on the grinding / polishing parameters stored in the machine-readable storage device and associated with the selected one of the plurality of quick-call inputs; and The actuator is controlled to perform grinding / polishing operations according to the configured grinding / polishing parameters. The controller is configured to save the plurality of user-selected grinding / polishing parameters to the machine-readable storage device and assign them to the plurality of quick-call inputs when the user selects and holds one of the plurality of quick-call inputs.

2. The grinding / polishing machine of claim 1, further comprising a water distributor configured to supply cooling water to the sample, the grinding / polishing parameters further comprising water on / off, and the controller further configured to control the water distributor according to a selected cycle time and water on / off.

3. The grinding / polishing machine as described in claim 2, wherein, The actuator includes a motor and a drive actuator, and the controller is further configured to (i) control the motor to rotate at least one of the sample holder and the stage according to selected grinding / polishing parameters, and (ii) control the drive actuator to press one of the sample and the stage into the other of the sample and the stage according to a selected applied load.

4. The grinding / polishing machine of claim 1, further comprising a fluid distributor configured to supply fluid to the sample, the grinding / polishing parameters further comprising fluid on / off and fluid distribution rate, the controller further configured to control the fluid distributor based on a selected cycle time, fluid on / off and fluid distribution rate.

5. The grinding / polishing machine as described in claim 1, wherein, The input device includes a touchscreen display configured to display the quick access input and the plurality of grinding / polishing parameters.

6. The grinding / polishing machine as described in claim 5, wherein, The touchscreen display includes a main screen, wherein at least one of the plurality of quick access inputs is displayed on the main screen and can be selected from the main screen.

7. The grinding / polishing machine as described in claim 1, wherein, At least one of the multiple quick access inputs is accessible on the main screen of the input device without needing to access the input device's menu.

8. The grinding / polishing machine as described in claim 1, wherein, At least one of the multiple quick access inputs is immediately accessible to the user on the main screen of the input device.

9. The grinding / polishing machine as described in claim 1, wherein, The grinding / polishing parameters include at least one of cycle time, platen speed and sample speed, at least one of platen orientation and sample orientation, and applied load.

10. A non-transitory machine-readable storage device, comprising machine-readable instructions that, when executed, cause a controller to: Based on the grinding / polishing parameter input received by the input device, multiple user-selected grinding / polishing parameters are saved to the machine-readable storage device, the grinding / polishing parameters including at least two of cycle time, stage speed, sample speed, stage orientation, sample orientation and applied load; Associate the multiple user-selected grinding / polishing parameters with one of multiple quick-call inputs of the input device; In response to the selection of one of the plurality of quick-call inputs of the input device, the grinding / polishing parameters are configured based on the grinding / polishing parameters stored in the machine-readable storage device and associated with the selected one of the plurality of quick-call inputs; and An actuator for controlling a grinding / polishing machine to perform grinding / polishing operations according to configured grinding / polishing parameters, said actuator being configured to move at least one of the sample holder and the table of the grinding / polishing machine. When the instruction is executed, the controller causes the user to select one of the plurality of quick-call inputs, save the plurality of user-selected grinding / polishing parameters to the machine-readable storage device, and assign them to the one of the plurality of quick-call inputs.

11. The non-transitory machine-readable storage device of claim 10, wherein, The grinding / polishing parameters further include at least one of water on / off, and when the instruction is executed, it causes the controller to control the water distributor according to the selected cycle time and water on / off.

12. The non-transitory machine-readable storage device of claim 11, wherein, The actuator includes a motor and a drive actuator, and when the command is executed, the controller (i) controls the motor to rotate at least one of the sample holder and the stage according to selected grinding / polishing parameters, and (ii) controls the drive actuator to press one of the sample and the stage into the other of the sample and the stage according to a selected applied load.

13. The non-transitory machine-readable storage device of claim 10, wherein, The grinding / polishing machine further includes a fluid distributor configured to supply fluid to the sample, and the grinding / polishing parameters further include fluid on / off and fluid distribution rate, and the instructions, when executed, cause the controller to control the fluid distributor according to the selected cycle time, fluid on / off and fluid distribution rate.

14. The non-transitory machine-readable storage device of claim 10, wherein, The input device includes a touchscreen display, and when the instruction is executed, the controller displays the quick call input and the plurality of grinding / polishing parameters on the touchscreen display.

15. The non-transitory machine-readable storage device as claimed in claim 14, wherein, When the instruction is executed, the controller displays a main screen on the touchscreen display, wherein at least one of the plurality of quick access inputs is displayed on the main screen and can be selected from the main screen.

16. The non-transitory machine-readable storage device of claim 10, wherein, At least one of the multiple quick access inputs is accessible on the main screen of the input device without needing to access the input device's menu.

17. The non-transitory machine-readable storage device of claim 12, wherein, At least one of the multiple quick access inputs is immediately accessible to the user on the main screen of the input device.

18. The non-transitory machine-readable storage device of claim 12, wherein, The grinding / polishing parameters include at least one of cycle time, platen speed and sample speed, at least one of platen orientation and sample orientation, and applied load.

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