System, method and computer program product for reducing the risk of mis-handling a tool in a machine operation

By combining reader devices and electronic equipment, the correctness of the cutting tool components is verified, eliminating the risk of incorrect tool manipulation during machine operation and achieving higher operational accuracy and safety.

CN115515742BActive Publication Date: 2026-06-19SECO TOOLS AB

Patent Information

Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Patents(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
SECO TOOLS AB
Filing Date
2021-04-23
Publication Date
2026-06-19

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

In machine operation, existing technologies pose a risk of tool mishandling, including the use of incorrect tools, incorrect tool component assembly positions and orientations, and human error is difficult to avoid.

Method used

A reader device is used to read the machine-readable code on the tool component. The electronic processing circuit verifies whether the tool component conforms to the expected operating data, including position and orientation, and issues an alarm or stop signal if necessary to prevent erroneous operation.

🎯Benefits of technology

It reduces human error, ensures that tool components are correctly identified and assembled before machine operation, reduces the risk of incorrect tool handling, and improves the accuracy and safety of operation.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Patent Text Reader

Abstract

This disclosure relates to a method, computer program product, and system (100) for reducing the risk of mishandling of a cutting tool during machine operation. The system includes reader devices (10a, 10b, 10c) for reading machine-readable codes disposed on cutting tool components (20a, 20b, 20c, 20d), and electronic devices (1a, 1b, 1c) having processing circuitry (102a, 102b, 102c) configured to cause the system (100) to receive desired operation data indicating the cutting tool components (20a, 20b, 20c, 20d) to be used by the machine (50) during machine operation; and to detect identification marks (40a, 40b, 40c, 40) on the cutting tool components (20a, 20b, 20c, 20d). d), wherein the identification markers (40a, 40b, 40c, 40d) are machine-readable codes associated with the tooling components (20a, 20b, 20c, 20d); the machine-readable codes of the identification markers (40a, 40b, 40c, 40d) are read by the reader devices (10a, 10b, 10c); the tooling components (20a, 20b, 20c, 20d) are identified; and it is determined whether the identified tooling components (20a, 20b, 20c, 20d) correspond to the tooling components (20a, 20b, 20c, 20d) according to the expected operation data.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a system for reducing the risk of mishandling a cutting tool during machine operation, a method for reducing the risk of mishandling a cutting tool during machine operation, and a computer program product for performing the method. Background Technology

[0002] Today, many machine operations involve the use of cutting tools. It is important that the correct cutting tool is used in machine operation and that it is used correctly to reduce the risk of mishandling the tool during operation. In some operations, multiple tooling components are used in a specific way, for example, to machine materials. There is a great deal of manual manipulation of cutting tools in machine operation today. Typically, the machine operator needs to select the cutting tool or tooling component to be used in the machine operation and, for example, assemble the tooling component correctly before the machine operation can begin.

[0003] An example of machine operation is a machine with cutting tools, which are used to remove chips from a block of material during machine operation. In this example, the machine used for cutting may need to assemble multiple tooling components in the correct manner before starting machine operation with the cutting tooling components. In this example, the cutting tool may include multiple tooling components, such as a particular tool holder with one or more specific cutting inserts attached to it. Furthermore, the cutting inserts may have multiple cutting edges, so each cutting insert may need to be arranged in a specific manner at the tool holder so that the correct cutting edge is used during machine operation with the cutting tool.

[0004] Therefore, the operator of such a cutting machine needs to verify, for example, whether the correct cutting tool and the correct cutting insert are being used, and whether the cutting inserts are arranged relative to each other in a specific manner and / or whether the correct cutting edge of the cutting insert is being used, etc. This is usually accomplished by the operator visually inspecting the tool components before starting machine operation.

[0005] The first drawback of the current method is that the tool may be mishandled even with the correct cutting tool and cutting inserts, as well as with the arrangement of the cutting inserts and / or the correct use of the cutting edge of the cutting inserts.

[0006] The second drawback of the current method is that even if the operator verifies the tool components before operating the machine, human error is also a factor that can lead to incorrect tool handling during machine operation.

[0007] Therefore, alternative methods are needed to reduce the risk of mishandling tools during machine operation. Summary of the Invention

[0008] Tools can be mishandled in many ways. In the example of cutting tools, as mentioned earlier, an incorrect tool holder may be used, the wrong cutting insert may be assembled on the tool holder, or the correct cutting insert may be assembled on the tool holder but in the wrong position on the tool holder, or the cutting insert may be assembled in the wrong orientation, and so on.

[0009] Some embodiments are intended to address, mitigate, or eliminate at least some of the disadvantages described above or otherwise.

[0010] According to a first aspect, a system for reducing the risk of mishandling a cutting tool during machine operation is provided. The system includes a reader device for reading machine-readable code disposed on a cutting tool component during machine operation, and electronic equipment configured to be connected to the reader device. The electronic equipment has processing circuitry configured to cause the system to receive, at the electronic equipment, desired operation data indicating a cutting tool component to be used by the machine during machine operation; detect an identification mark on the cutting tool component by the reader device, wherein the identification mark is machine-readable code associated with the cutting tool component; read the machine-readable code of the identification mark by the reader device; identify the cutting tool component using information from the read machine-readable code of the identification mark; and determine whether the identified cutting tool component associated with the read machine-readable code corresponds to the cutting tool component according to the desired operation data.

[0011] One advantage of this is that the tooling components can be identified and verified, for example, before machine operation to be the desired tooling components to be used by the machine during operation, thus preventing mishandling of the tooling during machine operation. Another advantage is that it provides an alternative method for reducing the risk of mishandling the tooling during machine operation. Yet another advantage is the reduction of human error factors.

[0012] According to some embodiments, the processing circuitry is also configured to cause the system to issue an alarm signal to the machine operator and / or a stop signal to the machine when it is determined that the identified tooling part associated with the read machine-readable code does not correspond to the expected operating data or when it is determined that the tooling part can no longer be identified by the machine-readable code.

[0013] One advantage of this embodiment is that machine operation can be stopped if the tool component is not the desired tool component, and if, for example, the desired tool component is loose, or if machine-readable code cannot be read for any other reason, in order to prevent the erroneous manipulation of the tool or the erroneous manipulation of a non-existent tool during machine operation.

[0014] According to some embodiments, the desired operational data may also include data indicating the desired position of the first tooling component relative to at least the second tooling component during use of the tooling components in machine operation.

[0015] One advantage of this embodiment is that the operational data can be used to further define the desired use of the tool components in relation to their position.

[0016] According to some embodiments, the processing circuitry is also configured to enable the system to detect a first identification mark at a first tool component and a second identification mark at a second tool component via a reader device, determine the position of the identified first tool component and the identified second tool component relative to each other or relative to other tool components before and / or during the use of the tool components in machine operation, and determine whether the first tool component and the second tool component are arranged in positions according to the desired operating data.

[0017] One advantage of this embodiment is that it allows verification that the tool components are positioned as desired.

[0018] According to some embodiments, the desired operating data also includes data indicating the desired orientation of the tool components during machine operation.

[0019] One advantage of this embodiment is that the operational data can be used to further define the desired use of the tool component in relation to the orientation of the tool component.

[0020] According to some embodiments, the processing circuitry is also configured to enable the system to determine the orientation of the tooling component before and / or during machine operation, and to determine whether the orientation of the tooling component corresponds to the orientation of the tooling component according to the desired operation data.

[0021] One advantage of this embodiment is that the tooling components can be verified to be positioned in the desired orientation before and / or during machine operation.

[0022] According to some embodiments, the reader device is configured to be installed at the machine such that machine-readable code of the tooling component comes into the view of the reader device during the use of the tooling component by the machine in machine operation.

[0023] One advantage of this embodiment is that when the reader device is mounted on the machine, the machine-readable code of the tool component is located in the line of sight in a predetermined direction relative to the machine.

[0024] According to a second aspect, a method for reducing the risk of mishandling a cutting tool during machine operation is provided. The method includes receiving, at an electronic device, expected operational data indicating a cutting tool component to be used by the machine during machine operation; detecting, via a reader device, an identification mark at the cutting tool component, wherein the identification mark is a machine-readable code associated with the cutting tool component. The method further includes reading the machine-readable code of the identification mark via the reader device; identifying the cutting tool component using information from the read machine-readable code of the identification mark; and determining whether the identified cutting tool component associated with the read machine-readable code corresponds to the cutting tool component according to the expected operational data.

[0025] One advantage of this is that the tooling components can be identified and verified, for example, before machine operation to be the desired tooling components to be used by the machine during operation, thus preventing mishandling of the tooling during machine operation. Another advantage is that it provides an alternative method for reducing the risk of mishandling the tooling during machine operation. Yet another advantage is the reduction of human error factors.

[0026] According to some embodiments, the method further includes the steps of: issuing an alarm signal to the machine operator and / or issuing a stop signal to the machine when it is determined that the identified tooling component associated with the read machine-readable code does not correspond to the expected operation data or when it is determined that the tooling component can no longer be identified by the machine-readable code.

[0027] One advantage of this embodiment is that machine operation can be stopped if the tool component is not the desired tool component, and if, for example, the desired tool component is loose, or if machine-readable code cannot be read for any other reason, in order to prevent the erroneous manipulation of the tool or the erroneous manipulation of a non-existent tool during machine operation.

[0028] According to some embodiments, the desired operational data may also include data indicating the desired position of the first tooling component relative to at least the second tooling component during use of the tooling components in machine operation.

[0029] One advantage of this embodiment is that the operational data can be used to further define the desired use of the tool components in relation to their position.

[0030] According to some embodiments, the method further includes the steps of detecting a first identification mark at a first tool component and a second identification mark at a second tool component via a reader device, determining the position of the identified first tool component and the identified second tool component relative to each other or relative to other tool components before and / or during the use of the tool components in machine operation, and determining whether the first tool component and the second tool component are arranged at positions according to the desired operating data.

[0031] One advantage of this embodiment is that it allows verification that the tool components are positioned as desired.

[0032] According to some embodiments, the desired operating data also includes data indicating the desired orientation of the tool components during machine operation.

[0033] One advantage of this embodiment is that the operational data can be used to further define the desired use of the tool component in relation to the orientation of the tool component.

[0034] According to some embodiments, the method further includes the steps of determining the orientation of the identified tooling component before and / or during the use of the tooling component in machine operation, and determining whether the orientation of the tooling component corresponds to the orientation of the tooling component according to the desired operation data.

[0035] One advantage of this embodiment is that the tooling components can be verified to be positioned in the desired orientation before and / or during machine operation.

[0036] According to some embodiments, the desired operation data is received at the electronic device via at least one of the following: a user interface configured to receive user input from an operator for desired operation data corresponding to a tool component; a reader device configured to read machine-readable code of the tool component; or via data input from a machine configured to provide data for the tool component.

[0037] One advantage of this embodiment is that the desired operation data can be received by manual input (e.g., by an operator through a user interface), by machine input (e.g., by a reading device operated by an operator), or by data input from a machine.

[0038] According to a third aspect, a computer program product is provided, comprising a non-transitory computer-readable medium having a computer program thereon including program instructions, the computer program being loadable into processing circuitry and configured to cause the method to be performed when the computer program is run by the processing circuitry.

[0039] The effects and features of the second and third aspects are largely similar to those described above in conjunction with the first aspect. The embodiments mentioned with respect to the first aspect are largely compatible with the second and third aspects.

[0040] This disclosure will become apparent from the detailed description given below. The detailed description and specific examples disclose preferred embodiments of this disclosure by way of illustration only. Those skilled in the art will understand from the guidance of the detailed description that changes and modifications can be made within the scope of this disclosure.

[0041] Therefore, it should be understood that the disclosure herein is not limited to the specific components of the described device or the steps of the described method, as such devices and methods can vary. It should also be understood that the terminology used herein is merely for describing particular embodiments and not for limitation. It should be noted that, as used in the specification and appended claims, the articles “a,” “an,” “the,” and “the” are intended to indicate the presence of one or more of the said elements, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Thus, for example, references to “unit” or “the unit” can include several devices, etc. Furthermore, the words “comprising,” “including,” “containing,” and similar wording do not exclude other elements or steps. Attached Figure Description

[0042] The foregoing objects, additional objects, features, and advantages of this disclosure will be more fully understood by referring to the following illustrative and non-limiting detailed description of exemplary embodiments of this disclosure in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0043] Figure 1 An example cutting tool component according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0044] Figures 2a-2c An example tool component in the form of a cutting insert having multiple cutting edges is shown according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0045] Figure 3a An example system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0046] Figure 3b An example system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0047] Figure 3c An example system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0048] Figure 4 A flowchart of example method steps according to the second aspect of this disclosure is shown.

[0049] Figure 5 An example computer program product according to the third aspect of this disclosure is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0050] This disclosure will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate preferred exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. However, this disclosure may be implemented in other forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments disclosed herein. The disclosed embodiments are provided to fully communicate the scope of this disclosure to those skilled in the art.

[0051] For illustrative purposes, example tooling components for machine operation will now be described to visualize and illustrate aspects of the prior art and this disclosure. It should be understood that aspects of this disclosure can be applied to any tooling component to reduce the risk of mishandling any tool during any machine operation. In the example, and in the following description, a tooling component for cutting is disclosed. The example machine operation relates to a machine with cutting tools used to remove debris from a block of material during machine operation.

[0052] Figure 1 Example tool parts 20a, 20b, 20c, and 20d are shown. In this example, as... Figure 1 As shown, tool components 20a, 20b, and 20c are cutting inserts, and tool component 20d is a tool holder. In this example, the tool holder 20d is arranged to receive the cutting inserts (i.e., tool components 20a, 20b, and 20c) at positions shown as "A", "B", and "C", respectively.

[0053] In addition, in such Figure 1 In the example shown, each of the cutting inserts (i.e., tool parts 20a, 20b, 20c) includes three cutting edges. Figures 2a-2c An example tool component 20c in the form of a cutting insert with multiple cutting edges is shown. (Refer to...) Figure 1 and Figures 2a-2c In this example, each cutting edge of each cutting insert is configured to remove chips from the material block. Therefore, when assembled with the tool holder 20d, the orientation of each cutting insert is of interest in order to know which cutting edge of each cutting insert is used for machining during machine operation.

[0054] As mentioned above, today, operators need to verify, for example, whether the correct tool holder and the correct cutting inserts are used, and whether the cutting inserts are arranged relative to each other in a specific manner, and whether the correct cutting edge of each cutting insert is used, depending on how the cutting inserts are oriented when attached to the tool holder. This is typically done by the operator through visual inspection of the tool components before machine operation begins.

[0055] As mentioned above, the cutting tool can therefore be mishandled in a variety of ways. Even if the operator controls the tool components before the machine is operated, human error is a factor that can lead to mishandling of the tool during machine operation. This could include using an incorrect tool holder, attaching the wrong cutting insert to the tool holder, attaching the correct cutting insert to the tool holder but in the wrong position on the tool holder, or attaching the cutting insert to the tool holder in the wrong orientation, and so on.

[0056] There is a need to reduce the risk of incorrect tool handling during machine operation. The inventors have proposed a solution that reduces the risk of human error and also reduces the time required to verify that the desired tool components are being used correctly. Several aspects and embodiments are presented below, describing alternative methods for reducing the risk of incorrect tool handling during machine operation.

[0057] Figures 3a-3c Example systems according to some embodiments of this disclosure are shown.

[0058] A first aspect of this disclosure illustrates a system 100 for reducing the risk of mishandling of cutting tools during machine operation. System 100 includes reader devices 10a, 10b, 10c for reading machine-readable code. According to some embodiments, reader devices 10a, 10b, 10c are any of a camera-based reader, a camcorder reader, a pen reader with a photodiode, a laser scanner, a charge-coupled device reader, or a mobile phone camera. According to some embodiments, reader devices 10a, 10b, 10c are components integrated into electronic devices or stand-alone components. Reader devices 10a, 10b, 10c are configured to read machine-readable code arranged at cutting tool components 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d during machine operation by machine 50 using cutting tool components 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d. According to some embodiments, tool components 20a, 20b, 20c, and 20d are any one of a cutting insert, a milling tool component, a drilling tool component, a drill chuck, a milling cutter chuck, or a tool holder.

[0059] The system also includes electronic devices 1a, 1b, and 1c configured to connect to reader devices 10a, 10b, and 10c. According to some embodiments, the electronic device 1a is a portable electronic device. According to some embodiments, the electronic device 1b is a local electronic device. According to some embodiments, the electronic device 1c is a remote electronic device. According to some embodiments, the electronic devices 1a, 1b, and 1c are configured to connect to a communication network 60. Figure 3a An electronic device 1a is shown, which may be a smartphone, tablet, cellular phone, feature phone, or any portable electronic device. In one example, such as... Figure 3aAs shown, reader device 10a is the camera of smartphone 1a. The electronic device can also be a local electronic device 1b, for example, installed as part of machine 50, such as... Figure 3b As shown. In Figure 3b In one example shown, reader device 10b is a standalone reader device connected to electronic device 1b and installed as part of machine 50. According to some embodiments, the electronic device is a remote server 1c connected to reader device 10c via communication network 60, such as... Figure 3c As shown.

[0060] Electronic devices 1a, 1b, 1c have processing circuits 102a, 102b, 102c, which are configured to enable system 100 to receive at electronic devices 1a, 1b, 1c desired operation data indicating the tooling components 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d to be used by machine 50 during machine operation.

[0061] According to some embodiments, the desired operation data is received at electronic devices 1a, 1b, 1c via user interfaces 400a, 400b, 400c, which are configured to receive user input from the operator for desired operation data corresponding to tool components 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d. In the example, a particular machine operation requires specific tool components 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d, and these specific tool components 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d are identified by, for example, a serial number or identification number, which the operator can input along with, for example, specific tool component parameters, via user interfaces 400a, 400b, 400c.

[0062] According to some embodiments, the desired operation data is received at electronic devices 1a, 1b, 1c via reader devices 10a, 10b, 10c, which are configured to read machine-readable codes from identification marks 40a, 40b, 40c, 40d on tool components. In an example, a particular machine operation requires specific tool components 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d, and these specific tool components 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d are identified and picked up by the operator. The operator then uses reader devices 10a, 10b, 10c to input, for example, a serial number or identification number and specific tool component parameters by scanning the identification marks 40a, 40b, 40c, 40d on the specific tool components 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d.

[0063] According to some embodiments, the desired operation data is received at electronic devices 1a, 1b, 1c via data input from machine 50, which is configured to provide data for tooling components 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d. In an example, a particular machine operation requires specific tooling components 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d, and these specific tooling components 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d are identified by machine 50. For example, the serial number or identification number of the specific tooling components 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d, along with specific tooling component parameters, is sent from machine 50 via communication network 60 and received at electronic devices 1a, 1b, 1c.

[0064] Therefore, the desired operation data can be received in various ways at electronic devices 1a, 1b, and 1c. According to some embodiments, electronic devices 1a, 1b, and 1c also include memories 103a, 103b, and 103c. According to some embodiments, the desired operation data, indicating the tooling components 20a, 20b, 20c, and 20d to be used by machine 50 during machine operation, is stored in memories 103a, 103b, and 103c.

[0065] In this example use case, it is desirable to begin machine operation, and a specific tool, comprising multiple tooling components 20a, 20b, 20c, and 20d, is assembled prior to machine operation to prepare for it. The desired operation data, indicating the tooling components 20a, 20b, 20c, and 20d to be used during machine operation, is stored in memories 103a, 103b, and 103c. The tooling components 20a, 20b, 20c, and 20d are arranged together and attached to machine 50 in preparation for machine operation.

[0066] Processing circuits 102a, 102b, and 102c are further configured to enable system 100 to detect identification marks 40a, 40b, 40c, and 40d at tool components 20a, 20b, 20c, and 20d via reader devices 10a, 10b, and 10c, wherein identification marks 40a, 40b, 40c, and 40d are machine-readable codes associated with tool components 20a, 20b, 20c, and 20d; to read the machine-readable codes of identification marks 40a, 40b, 40c, and 40d via reader devices 10a, 10b, and 10c; and to identify tool components 20a, 20b, 20c, and 20d by the information in the read machine-readable codes of identification marks 40a, 40b, 40c, and 40d.

[0067] Processing circuits 102a, 102b, and 102c are then further configured to enable system 100 to determine whether the identified tool parts 20a, 20b, 20c, and 20d associated with the read machine-readable code correspond to tool parts 20a, 20b, 20c, and 20d according to the desired operating data.

[0068] Therefore, one advantage of this is that the tooling components can be identified and verified, for example, before machine operation as the desired tooling components to be used during machine operation, in order to prevent incorrect manipulation of the tooling during machine operation.

[0069] According to some embodiments, processing circuits 102a, 102b, 102c are further configured to enable system 100 to determine whether the identified tool parts 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d associated with the read machine-readable code correspond to tool parts 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d according to the expected operation data, and, upon determining that the identified tool parts 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d associated with the read machine-readable code do not correspond to tool parts 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d according to the expected operation data, output error information data via user interfaces 400a, 400b, 400c of electronic devices 1a, 1b, 1c, indicating that tool parts 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d do not correspond to tool parts 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d according to the expected operation data.

[0070] According to some embodiments, the error information data includes a graphical representation of tool components 20a, 20b, 20c, and 20d via user interfaces 400a, 400b, and 400c, used to indicate to the operator which tool component 20a, 20b, 20c, or 20d requires attention, in order to prevent incorrect tool manipulation during machine operation. In an example, the error information data includes a color representation of tool components 20a, 20b, 20c, and 20d, for example, tool components 20a, 20b, 20c, and 20d are represented in red.

[0071] According to some embodiments, processing circuits 102a, 102b, 102c are also configured to cause system 100 to output guidance information data via user interfaces 400a, 400b, 400c of electronic devices 1a, 1b, 1c, indicating virtual representations of desired tool parts 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d according to the desired operation data, for guiding the operator to select the correct tool parts 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d, so as to prevent incorrect manipulation of the tool during machine operation.

[0072] In the example, tool components 20a, 20b, 20c, and 20d are slowly rotated by machine 50, and reader devices 10a, 10b, and 10c detect each identification mark 40a, 40b, 40c, and 40d at each tool component 20a, 20b, 20c, and 20d, and determine whether the identified tool components 20a, 20b, 20c, and 20d correspond to tool components 20a, 20b, 20c, and 20d according to the expected operation data. In this example, by rotating the tool components 20a, 20b, 20c, and 20d, all identification marks 40a, 40b, 40c, and 40d come into the line of sight of the reader devices 10a, 10b, and 10c. When all identification marks 40a, 40b, 40c, and 40d are read, it can be verified whether the identified tool components 20a, 20b, 20c, and 20d correspond to the tool components 20a, 20b, 20c, and 20d according to the expected operation data. If machine operation is paused, and for example, the machine is stopped and turned on by the operator, this verification procedure by slowly rotating the tool components 20a, 20b, 20c, and 20d in front of the machine can be run again to ensure that no tool components have been replaced before machine operation resumes.

[0073] According to some embodiments, system 100 can be operatively connected to machine 50 for controlling the operation of machine 50. According to some embodiments, system 100 can be operatively connected to machine 50 via communication network 60.

[0074] According to some embodiments, communication network 60 is a wireless communication network. According to some embodiments, the wireless communication network is a standardized wireless local area network, such as a WLAN or Bluetooth. TM The wireless communication network may be a standardized wireless wide area network, such as GSM, Extended GSM, GPRS, GSM Evolution EDGE, WCDMA, LTE, Narrowband IoT, 5G, WiMAX, or UMB, or similar networks. According to some embodiments, the wireless communication network may also be a combination of a wireless local area network (WLAN) and a wireless wide area network (WAN). According to some embodiments, communication network 60 may be a combination of a wired communication network and a wireless communication network. According to some embodiments, communication network 60 is defined by a common Internet Protocol (IP).

[0075] In this example, before machine operation is permitted by machine 50, verification is required by system 100 prior to machine operation. Specifically, this verification verifies whether the identified tool parts 20a, 20b, 20c, and 20d associated with the read machine-readable code correspond to tool parts 20a, 20b, 20c, and 20d according to the desired operation data. In this example, the machine operator requires system 100 to initiate the verification process before starting machine operation. In this example, the verification process prior to machine operation is performed when tool parts 20a, 20b, 20c, and 20d are slowly rotating in the machine but are not performing any machining.

[0076] According to some embodiments, processing circuits 102a, 102b, and 102c are also configured to cause system 100 to issue an alarm signal to the machine operator and / or a stop signal to machine 50 when it determines that tool parts 20a, 20b, 20c, and 20d have not been identified. In this example, machine operation cannot occur unless tool parts 20a, 20b, 20c, and 20d have been identified.

[0077] According to some embodiments, processing circuits 102a, 102b, 102c are also configured to cause system 100 to issue an alarm signal to the machine operator and / or a stop signal to machine 50 when it determines that tool parts 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d have been identified but are determined not to be the expected tool parts 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d according to the expected operation data. In the example, machine operation cannot occur unless the identified tool parts 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d associated with the read machine-readable code correspond to tool parts 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d according to the expected operation data.

[0078] In the example, the operator of machine 50 can replace the tooling part with an undesirable one and rerun the verification procedure. In the example, the operator is notified, for example, via user interfaces 400a, 400b, and 400c, that: for example, the desired tooling part is missing and / or an incorrect, undesirable tooling part exists.

[0079] According to some embodiments, processing circuits 102a, 102b, 102c are also configured to cause system 100 to issue an alarm signal to the machine operator and / or a stop signal to machine 50 when it determines that the identified tool parts 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d associated with the read machine-readable code do not correspond to the expected operation data, or when it determines that the tool parts 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d can no longer be identified by the machine-readable code.

[0080] According to some embodiments, the alarm signal given to the machine operator is any one of the audio output signal, visual output signal, or audiovisual output signal of the user interface 400a, 400b, 400c of the electronic devices 1a, 1b, 1c. According to some embodiments, the stop signal given to the machine 50 is a data signal indicating a stop command to be received at the machine 50 for stopping machine operation.

[0081] Therefore, one advantage of this embodiment is that if tool components 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d are not the desired tool components, and if, for example, the desired tool components become loose, or if machine-readable code cannot be read for any other reason, machine operation can be stopped to prevent the erroneous manipulation of tools 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d during machine operation, or the erroneous manipulation of tools 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d that are not present during machine operation. Loosening of tool components 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d during machine operation can cause serious damage to the machine 50 and the material being processed.

[0082] According to some embodiments, the desired operational data also includes data indicating the desired position of the first tooling component 20a relative to at least the second tooling components 20b, 20c, 20d during machine operation using tooling components 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d.

[0083] According to some embodiments, the desired position of the first tooling component 20a relative to at least the second tooling components 20b, 20c, 20d includes a specific order of the first tooling component 20a relative to the at least the second tooling components 20b, 20c, 20d. According to some embodiments, the order of the first tooling component 20a relative to the at least the second tooling components 20b, 20c, 20d is defined by the rotational direction of the tooling components 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d.

[0084] In the example, during machine operation, the first tooling component 20a must arrive before the at least second tooling components 20b, 20c, and 20d to perform machining in a specific manner via the first tooling component 20a and the at least second tooling components 20b, 20c, and 20d. According to some embodiments, it is desirable for the multiple tooling components 20a, 20b, 20c, and 20d to be arranged in a specific order. Figure 1 In the example shown, the first tool component 20a is arranged sequentially before the second tool component 20b, and the second tool component 20b is arranged before the third tool component 20c. In this example, tool components 20a, 20b, and 20c are cutting inserts arranged at the tool holder 20d, and in this example, tool components 20a, 20b, and 20c are arranged relative to each other at desired positions at the tool holder 20d. Figure 1In the example, the tool holder 20d is configured to rotate in a specific direction, and the order of the first tool component 20a relative to at least the second tool components 20b, 20c, 20d is defined by the rotation of the tool holder 20d.

[0085] According to some embodiments, the order of the first cutting tool component 20a relative to the at least second cutting tool components 20b, 20c is defined by a predefined alternative placement position of the first cutting tool component 20a and the at least second cutting tool components 20b, 20c at the third cutting tool component 20d. Figure 1 In the example shown, the third tool component 20d is a tool holder having predefined alternative placement positions for the first tool component 20a and the at least second tool components 20b, 20c. Figure 1 In the example shown, the predetermined alternative placement positions of the first tool component 20a and the at least the second tool components 20b and 20c at the third tool component 20d are indicated by positions “A”, “B”, and “C”. In the example, the desired operational data includes data indicating the desired position of the first tool component 20a (i.e., the cutting insert) at the third tool component 20d (i.e., the tool holder).

[0086] Therefore, one advantage of this embodiment is that the operational data can be used to further define the desired use of the tool components in relation to their position.

[0087] According to some embodiments, processing circuits 102a, 102b, 102c are further configured to enable system 100 to detect, via reader devices 10a, 10b, 10c, a first identification mark 40a at a first tooling component 20a and a second identification mark 40b at a second tooling component 20b, determine the position of the identified first tooling component 20a and the identified second tooling component 20b relative to each other or relative to other tooling components 20c, 20d before and / or during the use of tooling components 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d in machine operation, and determine whether the first tooling component 20a and the second tooling component 20b are arranged at positions according to the desired operating data.

[0088] According to some embodiments, before using the tool components 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d in machine operation, it is determined whether the first tool component 20a and the second tool component 20b are arranged in the position according to the expected operation data, in order to verify whether the tool components 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d are correctly arranged, thereby preventing incorrect manipulation of the tools during machine operation.

[0089] Therefore, one advantage of this embodiment is that it can be verified whether the tool components are arranged in the desired positions relative to each other.

[0090] According to some embodiments, during machine operation using tool components 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d, it is continuously determined whether the first tool component 20a and the second tool component 20b are arranged in positions according to the desired operation data, in order to verify whether the tool components 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d are maintained in the proper position, thereby determining whether any tool components 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d are lost during machine operation, so as to prevent incorrect manipulation of the tools during machine operation.

[0091] Therefore, one advantage of this embodiment is that it can be verified whether the tool components are held in the desired position relative to each other.

[0092] According to some embodiments, the desired operating data also includes data indicating the desired orientation of the tool components 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d during machine operation.

[0093] exist Figure 1 In the example shown, tool components 20a, 20b, and 20c are cutting inserts. Figures 2a-2c An example tool component 20c in the form of a cutting insert with multiple cutting edges is shown. In the example, refer to... Figure 1 and Figures 2a-2c Each cutting edge of each cutting blade is configured to remove chips from the material block. Therefore, as... Figure 1 As shown in the example, when assembled with the tool holder 20d, the orientation of each cutting blade is of concern in order to know which cutting edge of each cutting blade is used to remove chips from the block of material during machine operation.

[0094] According to some embodiments, the identification marks 40a, 40b, 40c, and 40d at the tool components 20a, 20b, 20c, and 20d are machine-readable codes, which further include orientation detection patterns for determining the relative orientation of the tool components 20a, 20b, 20c, and 20d. According to some embodiments, the identification marks 40a, 40b, 40c, and 40d are arranged along a predetermined direction at the tool components 20a, 20b, 20c, and 20d to determine the orientation of the tool components 20a, 20b, 20c, and 20d relative to the identification marks 40a, 40b, 40c, and 40d at the tool components 20a, 20b, 20c, and 20d.

[0095] According to some embodiments, a plurality of identification marks 40a, 40b, 40c, and 40d are arranged at predetermined positions on tool components 20a, 20b, 20c, and 20d. The orientation of tool components 20a, 20b, 20c, and 20d is determined based on which of the plurality of identification marks 40a, 40b, 40c, and 40d can be read by reader devices 10a, 10b, and 10c.

[0096] According to some embodiments, the desired operating data also includes data indicating the desired orientation of the desired tooling components 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d.

[0097] According to some embodiments, the orientation detection pattern is detected and read by reader devices 10a, 10b, and 10c to identify the relative orientation of tool components 20a, 20b, 20c, and 20d relative to reader devices 10a, 10b, and 10c. According to some embodiments, reader devices 10a, 10b, and 10c are arranged in a predetermined direction relative to machine 50 to determine the relative orientation of tool components 20a, 20b, 20c, and 20d relative to machine 50.

[0098] According to some embodiments, electronic device 1a includes the reader device 10a. According to some embodiments, electronic device 1a includes an orientation detection unit configured to determine the orientation of electronic device 1a and reader device 10a. According to some embodiments, the orientation detection unit is at least one of a gyroscope or an accelerometer. According to some embodiments, the orientation of tool components 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d is determined relative to a normal plane common to the normal plane of electronic device 1a. According to some embodiments, the orientation of tool components 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d is determined relative to a normal plane common to the normal plane of machine 50. According to some embodiments, the orientation of tool components 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d is defined by a specific degree relative to a predetermined plane.

[0099] In the example, the orientation of tool components 20a, 20b, 20c, and 20d can be determined to understand which of the tool components 20a, 20b, 20c, and 20d is used to process the material during machine operation.

[0100] Figure 2b and Figure 2c An example tool component 20c, i.e., a cutting insert, is shown, wherein the identification mark 40c at the tool component 20c is a machine-readable code, which also includes an orientation detection pattern for determining the relative orientation of the tool component 20c. Figure 2b In the example, the reader device determines the orientation of the tool component 20c, which is parallel to (i.e., at 0 degrees) the normal plane of the reader device. In this example, reference... Figure 2c The reader device determines the orientation of the tool component 20c, which is perpendicular (i.e., at 90 degrees) to the normal plane of the reader device. According to some embodiments, it can be determined which side of the tool component 20c will be used during machine operation. In such cases... Figure 1In the example shown, the orientation detection pattern of the tool component 20c (i.e., the cutting blade) can determine which side of the tool component 20c (e.g., which cutting edge of the cutting blade) will be used to process the material during machine operation.

[0101] According to some embodiments, the desired operating data also includes data indicating the desired orientation of the first tooling component relative to the orientation of the second tooling component. In an example, such as Figure 1 As shown, tool components 20a, 20b, and 20c are cutting inserts, and tool component 20d is a tool holder. In this example, the tool holder 20d is arranged to receive the cutting inserts, i.e., tool components 20a, 20b, and 20c, at positions shown as "A", "B", and "C", respectively, and each cutting insert can be oriented in three different ways when assembled onto the tool holder 20d. Figure 1 In the example shown, the tool holder 20d is a first tool component arranged along a first direction, and the cutting insert 20c, for example, is a second tool component arranged along a second direction. An identification mark 40d at the tool holder 20d (i.e., the first tool component) is arranged in a predetermined direction, and an identification mark 40c at the cutting insert 20c (i.e., the second tool component) is arranged in a predetermined direction. The identification mark 40d at the tool holder 20d is detected and read by reader devices 10a, 10b, and 10c to identify the orientation of the tool holder 20d. The identification mark 40c at the cutting insert 20c is detected and read by reader devices 10a, 10b, and 10c to identify the orientation of the cutting insert 20c. Therefore, the orientation of the cutting insert 20c relative to the tool holder 20d can be determined. Therefore, it can be determined whether the desired orientation of the first tool component relative to the orientation of the second tool component is based on the desired operating data.

[0102] According to some embodiments, orientation information data, including graphical representations of the orientation of tool components 20a, 20b, 20c, and 20d, is output via user interfaces 400a, 400b, and 400c. In some examples, the orientation information data includes angular representations of tool components 20a, 20b, 20c, and 20d. In some examples, the orientation information data includes color representations of incorrectly oriented tool components 20a, 20b, 20c, and 20d.

[0103] According to some embodiments, processing circuits 102a, 102b, 102c are also configured to cause system 100 to output guidance information data indicating the desired orientation of tool components 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d via user interfaces 400a, 400b, 400c of electronic devices 1a, 1b, 1c, for guiding the operator to select the desired orientation of tool components 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d, so as to prevent incorrect manipulation of the tool during machine operation.

[0104] According to some embodiments, processing circuits 102a, 102b, 102c are also configured to enable system 100 to determine the orientation of tool components 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d before and / or during machine operation when tool components 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d are used, and to determine whether the orientation of tool components 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d corresponds to the orientation of tool components according to the desired operation data.

[0105] Therefore, one advantage of this embodiment is that the tooling components can be verified to be arranged in the desired orientation before and / or during machine operation.

[0106] According to some embodiments, the orientation of tool components 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d corresponds to the determination of the orientation of the tool components based on the desired operation data, which is continuously performed during the use of tool components 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d in machine operation to verify whether tool components 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d remain in the desired orientation during machine operation, thereby preventing erroneous manipulation of the tool during machine operation.

[0107] According to some embodiments, reader devices 10a, 10b, 10c are configured to be mounted at machine 50 such that during machine operation by machine 50, machine-readable code of tool components 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d comes into the line of sight of reader devices 10a, 10b, 10c. According to some embodiments, reader devices 10a, 10b, 10c are fixed relative to machine 50 in a predetermined relationship, such that machine-readable code of tool components 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d enters the line of sight of reader devices 10a, 10b, 10c, and such that either the desired position of the first tool component 20a relative to at least the second tool components 20b, 20c, 20d or the desired orientation of the tool components 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d during machine operation can be determined by machine 50 during machine operation using tool components 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d.

[0108] Therefore, one advantage of this embodiment is that when the reader devices 10a, 10b, and 10c are mounted on the machine 50, the machine-readable code of the tool components 20a, 20b, 20c, and 20d enters the line of sight in a predetermined direction relative to the machine 50. In such cases... Figure 3b and Figure 3c In the example shown, reader devices 10a, 10b, and 10c are mounted on machine 50 or arranged in a predetermined orientation relative to machine 50.

[0109] A second aspect of this disclosure illustrates a method for reducing the risk of mishandling a cutting tool during machine operation. Figure 4 A flowchart of the method steps according to the second aspect of this disclosure is shown.

[0110] The method includes the following steps: Step S1, receiving desired operation data at electronic devices 1a, 1b, 1c indicating the tooling components 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d to be used by machine 50 during machine operation; Step S2, detecting identification marks 40a, 40b, 40c, 40d at tooling components 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d by reader devices 10a, 10b, 10c, wherein identification marks 40a, 40b, 40c, 40d are machine-readable codes associated with said tooling components 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d. The method further includes the following steps: step S4, reading the machine-readable codes of identification marks 40a, 40b, 40c, and 40d using reader devices 10a, 10b, and 10c; step S5, identifying tool parts 20a, 20b, 20c, and 20d using the information in the machine-readable codes of the read identification marks 40a, 40b, 40c, and 40d; and step S10, determining whether the identified tool parts 20a, 20b, 20c, and 20d associated with the read machine-readable codes correspond to tool parts 20a, 20b, 20c, and 20d according to the expected operation data.

[0111] Therefore, one advantage of this is that the tooling components can be identified, for example, by machine-readable code before machine operation and verified as the desired tooling components to be used by the machine during machine operation, so as to prevent incorrect manipulation of the tooling during machine operation.

[0112] According to some embodiments, the method further includes step S11, which is to issue an alarm signal to the machine operator and / or issue a stop signal to the machine 50 when it is determined that the identified tool parts 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d associated with the read machine-readable code do not correspond to the expected operation data or when it is determined that the tool parts 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d can no longer be identified by the machine-readable code.

[0113] Therefore, one advantage of this embodiment is that it can be verified whether the tool components are arranged in the desired positions relative to each other.

[0114] According to some embodiments, the desired operational data also includes data indicating the desired position of the first tooling component 20a relative to at least the second tooling components 20b, 20c, 20d during machine operation using tooling components 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d.

[0115] Therefore, one advantage of this embodiment is that the operational data can be used to further define the desired use of the tool components in relation to the orientation of the tool components.

[0116] According to some embodiments, the method further includes: step S3, namely, detecting a first identification mark 40a at the first tool component 20a and a second identification mark 40b at the second tool component 20b by means of reader devices 10a, 10b, 10c; step S6, namely, determining the position of the identified first tool component 20a and the identified second tool component 20b relative to each other or relative to other tool components 20c, 20d before and / or during the use of tool components 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d in machine operation; and step S7, namely, determining whether the first tool component 20a and the second tool component 20b are arranged in the position according to the desired operation data.

[0117] Therefore, one advantage of this embodiment is that the tooling components can be verified to be arranged in the desired orientation before and / or during machine operation.

[0118] According to some embodiments, the desired operating data also includes data indicating the desired orientation of the tool components 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d during machine operation.

[0119] Therefore, one advantage of this embodiment is that the operational data can be used to further define the desired use of the tool components in relation to the orientation of the tool components.

[0120] According to some embodiments, the method further includes step S8 of determining the orientation of the identified tool components 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d before and / or during machine operation, and step S9 of determining whether the orientation of the tool components 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d corresponds to the orientation of the tool components according to the desired operation data.

[0121] Therefore, one advantage of this embodiment is that the tooling components can be verified to be arranged in the desired orientation before and / or during machine operation.

[0122] According to some embodiments, the desired operation data is received at electronic devices 1a, 1b, 1c via at least one of the following: a user interface 400a, 400b, 400c configured to receive user input corresponding to the desired operation data of the tool components 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d by an operator; a reader device 10a, 10b, 10c configured to read machine-readable code of the tool components 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d; or via data input from machine 50 configured to provide data of the tool components 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d.

[0123] Therefore, one advantage of this embodiment is that desired operation data can be received by manual input (e.g. by an operator via user interface 400a, 400b, 400c) or via machine input, such as by reader devices 10a, 10b, 10c operated by the operator, or via data input from machine 50.

[0124] Figure 5 A computer program product comprising a non-transitory computer-readable medium is shown, having thereon a computer program including program instructions, the computer program being loadable into processing circuits 102a, 102b, 102c and configured to cause the execution of, when the computer program is run by processing circuits 102a, 102b, 102c, as follows: Figure 4 The method steps are described below.

[0125] Those skilled in the art will recognize that this disclosure is not limited to the preferred embodiments described above. They will further recognize that modifications and variations are possible within the scope of the appended claims. Furthermore, those skilled in the art, in practicing the claimed disclosure, can understand and implement variations of the disclosed embodiments by studying the accompanying drawings, the disclosure, and the appended claims.

Claims

1. A system (100) for reducing the risk of mishandling a cutting tool during a chip removal operation via a machine (50), the cutting tool comprising a tool holder (20d) and a first cutting insert (20a) and a second cutting insert (20b) disposed in the tool holder (20d), wherein the machine (50) is configured to perform the chip removal operation by rotating the cutting tool, wherein the system comprises: Reader devices (10a, 10b, 10c) are used to read machine-readable codes arranged at the first cutting blade (20a) and the second cutting blade (20b) during the chip removal operation; An electronic device (1a, 1b, 1c) configured to be connected to the reader device (10a, 10b, 10c), the electronic device (1a, 1b, 1c) having processing circuitry (102a, 102b, 102c), the processing circuitry (102a, 102b, 102c) being configured to cause the system to: - Receive desired operation data indicating the cutting blades (20a, 20b) to be used during the chip removal operation, wherein the desired operation data includes data indicating the desired position of the first cutting blade (20a) in the tool holder (20d) relative to the second cutting blade (20b) in the tool holder (20d) during the chip removal operation; - The reader devices (10a, 10b, 10c) detect a first identification mark (40a) at the first cutting blade (20a) and a second identification mark (40b) at the second cutting blade (20b), wherein the identification marks (40a, 40b) are machine-readable codes associated with the cutting blades (20a, 20b); - The machine-readable code of the identification tag (40a, 40b) is read by the reader device (10a, 10b, 10c); - Identify the cutting blades (20a, 20b) using the information in the machine-readable code of the identification markers (40a, 40b) that have been read. - During the chip removal operation, the positions of the first cutting blade (20a) and the second cutting blade (20b) in the identified tool holder (20d) relative to each other are continuously determined; - During the chip removal operation, it is continuously determined whether the first cutting blade (20a) and the second cutting blade (20b) are arranged at the positions of the desired operation data; - Determine whether the identified cutting blade (20a, 20b) associated with the read machine-readable code corresponds to the cutting blade (20a, 20b) of the expected operation data; - When it is determined that the identified cutting blade (20a, 20b) associated with the read machine-readable code does not correspond to the expected operation data, or when it is determined that at least one cutting blade (20a, 20b) can no longer be identified by the machine-readable code, a stop signal indicating a stop command is issued to the machine (50); and - The rotation of the cutting tool is stopped by stopping the machine (50) according to the issued stop signal.

2. The system (100) according to claim 1, wherein The processing circuits (102a, 102b, 102c) are also configured to enable the system to: An alarm signal is issued to the machine operator when it is determined that the identified cutting blade (20a, 20b) associated with the read machine-readable code does not correspond to the expected operating data, or when it is determined that at least one of the cutting blades (20a, 20b) can no longer be identified by the machine-readable code.

3. The system (100) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein, The desired operation data also includes data indicating the desired orientation of the cutting blades (20a, 20b) during the chip removal operation.

4. The system (100) of claim 3, wherein, The processing circuits (102a, 102b, 102c) are also configured to enable the system to: - During the chip removal operation, the orientation of the cutting blades (20a, 20b) is determined; and - Determine whether the orientation of the cutting inserts (20a, 20b) corresponds to the orientation of the cutting inserts (20a, 20b) in the desired operating data.

5. A method for reducing the risk of mishandling a cutting tool during a chip removal operation via a machine (50), the cutting tool comprising a tool holder (20d) and a first cutting insert (20a) and a second cutting insert (20b) disposed in the tool holder (20d), wherein the machine (50) is configured to perform the chip removal operation by rotating the cutting tool, wherein the method comprises: - (S1) Receive at an electronic device (1a, 1b, 1c) desired operation data indicating the cutting blades (20a, 20b) to be used during the chip removal operation, wherein the desired operation data includes data indicating the desired position of the first cutting blade (20a) arranged in the tool holder (20d) relative to the second cutting blade (20b) arranged in the tool holder (20d) during the chip removal operation; - (S2) Detect a first identification mark (40a) at the first cutting blade (20a) and a second identification mark (40b) at the second cutting blade (20b) by reader devices (10a, 10b, 10c), wherein the identification marks (40a, 40b) are machine-readable codes associated with the cutting blades (20a, 20b); - (S3) Read the machine-readable code of the identification tag (40a, 40b) through the reader device (10a, 10b, 10c); - (S4) The cutting blade (20a, 20b) is identified by the system including the electronic devices (1a, 1b, 1c) by the information in the machine-readable code of the read identification marks (40a, 40b). - (S5) During the chip removal operation, the system continuously determines the position of the identified first cutting blade (20a) and the identified second cutting blade (20b) relative to each other; - (S6) Through the system, during the chip removal operation, it is continuously determined whether the first cutting blade (20a) and the second cutting blade (20b) are arranged at the positions of the desired operation data; - (S7) The system determines whether the identified cutting blade (20a, 20b) associated with the read machine-readable code corresponds to the cutting blade (20a, 20b) of the expected operation data. - (S8) When it is determined that the identified cutting blade (20a, 20b) associated with the read machine-readable code does not correspond to the expected operation data, or when it is determined that at least one cutting blade (20a, 20b) can no longer be identified by the machine-readable code, a stop signal indicating a stop command is issued to the machine (50); and - (S9) Stop the rotation of the cutting tool by stopping the machine (50) according to the issued stop signal.

6. The method according to claim 5, further comprising: - (S10) When it is determined that the identified cutting blade (20a, 20b) associated with the read machine-readable code does not correspond to the expected operation data, an alarm signal is issued to the machine operator.

7. The method of any one of claims 5-6, wherein, The desired operation data also includes data indicating the desired orientation of the cutting blades (20a, 20b) during the chip removal operation.

8. The method according to claim 7, further comprising: - During the chip removal operation, determine the orientation of the identified cutting blades (20a, 20b); and - Determine whether the orientation of the cutting inserts (20a, 20b) corresponds to the orientation of the cutting inserts (20a, 20b) in the desired operating data.

9. The method of claim 5, wherein, The desired operational data is received at the electronic devices (1a, 1b, 1c) via at least one of the following: - User interface (400a, 400b, 400c) configured to receive user input from the operator for desired operating data corresponding to the cutting blades (20a, 20b); - Reader devices (10a, 10b, 10c) configured to read the machine-readable code of the identification marks (40a, 40b) on the cutting blades (20a, 20b); or - Data input from the machine (50) is configured to provide data for the cutting blades (20a, 20b).

10. A computer program product (500) comprising a non-transitory computer-readable medium having a computer program including program instructions on the non-transitory computer-readable medium, the computer program being loadable into processing circuitry (102a, 102b, 102c) and configured to cause the execution of the method according to any one of claims 5 to 9 when the computer program is run by the processing circuitry (102a, 102b, 102c).

Citation Information

Patent Citations

  • Identified tool management system

    JP1992331036A