Tool conveying system, control method thereof, and computer-readable storage medium

Abstract

A tool conveying system (10) includes a display section (106, 206); a plurality of machine tools (400); a tool storage section (250) for storing a plurality of tools; a conveying device (300) for conveying a specified tool among the tools stored in the tool storage section (250) to a specified machine tool among the plurality of machine tools (400); and a controller (50) for controlling the tool conveying system (10). The controller (50) performs the following processes: acquires tool possession information (128) that specifies identification information of each tool possessed by the tool conveying system (10); determines a plurality of tools expected to be used in the plurality of machine tools (400) based on a machining schedule (126) for machining a workpiece with the plurality of machine tools (400); determines a non-possessed tool that is not specified in the tool possession information (128) among the plurality of tools expected to be used; and displays identification information of the non-possessed tool on the display section (106, 206).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a technique for managing cutting tools held in a tool handling system. Background Technology

[0002] More and more companies are using multiple machine tools. As the number of machine tools managed increases, the management of the cutting tools used in each machine tool becomes difficult. In response, Patent Document 1 (International Publication No. 2015 / 029232) discloses a tool management system for managing the cutting tools used in multiple machine tools.

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: International Publication No. 2015 / 029232 Summary of the Invention

[0006] The problem the invention aims to solve

[0007] In recent years, the development of tool transport systems has been continuously advancing. This tool transport system automatically transports the tools required by a specific machine tool from among multiple machine tools. The tool management system disclosed in Patent Document 1 does not involve such a tool transport system.

[0008] The tool transport system includes multiple machine tools, a tool storage unit for storing multiple tools, and a transport device such as a robot. The transport device removes a designated tool from the tool storage unit and moves it into a designated machine tool. Additionally, the transport device removes used tools from the machine tool and returns them to the tool storage unit. In this way, tools in the tool storage unit are shared by multiple machine tools.

[0009] When machining on various machine tools, the cutting tools used need to be pre-assembled into the tool transport system by the operator. However, even if the operator is notified in advance that the intended cutting tool is not available in the tool transport system, the operator cannot immediately prepare the tool. As a result, the start of machining is delayed. Therefore, a technique is needed to inform the operator in advance that the intended cutting tool is not available in the tool transport system.

[0010] Solution for solving the problem

[0011] In one example of this disclosure, a tool transport system includes: a display unit; multiple machine tools; a tool storage unit for storing multiple tools; a transport device for transporting a designated tool from the tools stored in the tool storage unit to a designated machine tool from the multiple machine tools; and a control unit for controlling the tool transport system. The control unit performs the following processes: acquiring held tool information, which specifies the identification information of each tool held by the tool transport system; determining multiple tools expected to be used in the multiple machine tools based on a machining schedule for processing workpieces on the multiple machine tools; determining unheld tools from the multiple tools expected to be used that are not specified in the held tool information; and displaying the identification information of the unheld tools on the display unit.

[0012] In one example of this disclosure, the tool transport system further includes a tool database. The tool database contains identification information for multiple tools. The control unit also performs the following processing: based on the input of tool attribute information, it associates the attribute information with the tool identification information in the tool database; and it displays information indicating whether the attribute information of the unheld tool is registered in the tool database on the display unit.

[0013] In one example of this disclosure, the tool transport system is configured to communicate with a communication terminal. The control unit also performs a process of sending identification information of unowned tools for which the attribute information is not registered in the tool database to the communication terminal.

[0014] In one example of this disclosure, the control unit also performs the following processing: based on the machining schedule, calculating the remaining time from now until the tool becomes needed in the tool transport system for the unheld tool; and displaying the remaining time related to the unheld tool on the display unit.

[0015] In one example of this disclosure, the control unit displays the identification information of the unheld tool with the shortest remaining time on the display unit in a manner that emphasizes it compared to the identification information of other unheld tools.

[0016] In another embodiment of this disclosure, a control method for a tool transport system is provided. The tool transport system includes: a display unit; a plurality of machine tools; a tool storage unit for storing a plurality of tools; and a transport device for transporting a designated tool from the tools stored in the tool storage unit to a designated machine tool from the plurality of machine tools. The control method includes the following steps: acquiring held tool information, the held tool information specifying identification information of each tool held by the tool transport system; determining a plurality of tools expected to be used in the plurality of machine tools based on a machining schedule for processing workpieces on the plurality of machine tools; determining an unheld tool from the plurality of tools expected to be used that is not specified in the held tool information; and displaying the identification information of the unheld tool on the display unit.

[0017] In another embodiment of this disclosure, a control program for a tool transport system is provided, the tool transport system comprising: a display unit; a plurality of machine tools; a tool storage unit for storing a plurality of tools; a transport device for transporting a designated tool from the tools stored in the tool storage unit to a designated machine tool from the plurality of machine tools; and a control unit for controlling the tool transport system. The control program causes the control unit to perform the following steps: acquiring held tool information, the held tool information specifying identification information of each tool held by the tool transport system; determining a plurality of tools expected to be used in the plurality of machine tools based on a machining schedule for machining workpieces on the plurality of machine tools; determining an unheld tool from the plurality of tools expected to be used that is not specified in the held tool information; and displaying the identification information of the unheld tool on the display unit.

[0018] The above and other objects, features, methods and advantages of this disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed description of this disclosure, which is understood in relation to the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0019] Figure 1 This is a diagram showing the appearance of the tool transport system.

[0020] Figure 2 This is a diagram illustrating a structural example of the drive mechanism of a tool transport system.

[0021] Figure 3 It is a diagram that provides a summary view of the extraction process using the unheld cutting tool.

[0022] Figure 4 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the functional structure of a tool transport system.

[0023] Figure 5 This is a diagram illustrating an example of a data structure for processing settings.

[0024] Figure 6 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the data structure of a workpiece database.

[0025] Figure 7 This is a diagram showing a processing schedule as an example.

[0026] Figure 8 It is a diagram that provides a summary of the process for determining the tools to be used.

[0027] Figure 9 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the data structure of a tool database.

[0028] Figure 10 This diagram illustrates an example of the output method of the output section.

[0029] Figure 11 It is a diagram that provides a summary of the process for determining the tools to be used.

[0030] Figure 12 This is a diagram showing the information about the cutting tool.

[0031] Figure 13 It is a diagram that provides a summary of the process for determining when a tool is not in use.

[0032] Figure 14 This is a diagram that outlines the flow of the tool loading process from the tool assembly unit to the tool storage unit.

[0033] Figure 15 This is a diagram illustrating an example of a data structure for storing information.

[0034] Figure 16 It is a diagram that outlines the flow of the tool loading process from the tool storage section to the machine tool.

[0035] Figure 17 This is a diagram that outlines the process of moving a cutting tool from the tool storage section to the tool assembly unit.

[0036] Figure 18 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of the hardware structure of a management device.

[0037] Figure 19 This is a block diagram showing the main hardware structure of a PLC (Programmable Logic Controller).

[0038] Figure 20 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of the hardware structure of an operating terminal.

[0039] Figure 21 This is a flowchart illustrating the process of outputting identification information for the unused cutting tools to be used. Detailed Implementation Modes

[0040] Next, various embodiments according to the present disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the following description, the same reference numerals are assigned to the same components and constituent elements. Their names and functions are also the same. Therefore, a detailed description thereof will not be repeated. In addition, the various embodiments and various modification examples described below can be appropriately and selectively combined.

[0041] <A. Appearance of the Tool Transfer System 10>

[0042] Refer to Figure 1 to describe the tool transfer system 10. Figure 1 is a view showing the appearance of the tool transfer system 10.

[0043] As Figure 1 shown, the tool transfer system 10 includes a tool assembly device 200, a tool storage unit 250, a transfer device 300, and a machine tool 400.

[0044] In this specification, the so-called "transfer device" is a concept including various devices having a function of transferring tools. Next, a multi-joint robot driven by 4 to 7 axes will be described as an example of the transfer device 300, but the transfer device 300 is not limited to being a multi-joint robot. As an example, the transfer device 300 can also be an orthogonal robot (autoloader) driven by 2 to 3 axes. Or, the transfer device 300 can also be a self-walking robot.

[0045] In addition, in this specification, the so-called "machine tool" is a concept including various devices having a function of machining a workpiece. The machine tool 400 can be either a horizontal machining center or a vertical machining center. Or, the machine tool 400 can be either a lathe, an additional processing machine, or other cutting machines or grinding machines.

[0046] Next, for the sake of convenience of description, the direction corresponding to the moving direction of the transfer device 300 is set as the "X direction". The X direction is a direction on the horizontal plane. In addition, the direction orthogonal to the X direction is set as the "Y direction". The Y direction is a direction on the horizontal plane. In addition, the direction orthogonal to both the X direction and the Y direction is set as the "Z direction". The "Z direction" is the vertical direction (gravity direction).

[0047] The tool assembly device 200 includes an operation terminal 200A. The operation terminal 200A is used to accept various operations on the tool transfer system 10. An operator assembles a tool to be carried in in the tool assembly device 200. After that, the operator performs a carry-in start operation on the operation terminal 200A, whereby the tool to be carried in is carried into the tool storage unit 250 by the transfer device 300.

[0048] The tool storage unit 250 is one of the transfer destinations to which the tools are transferred by the transfer device 300. Multiple tools can be stored in the tool storage unit 250. Typically, the tool storage unit 250 is arranged parallel to the rail 331.

[0049] The transfer device 300 transfers a specified tool among the tools stored in the tool storage unit 250 to a specified machine tool among the multiple machine tools 400A to 400E. As an example, the transfer device 300 includes an articulated robot 330, a rail 331, and a slide base 332. The articulated robot 330 is fixed to the slide base 332. The slide base 332 is configured to be movable on the rail 331. The tool storage unit 250 and the machine tool 400 are arranged parallel to the rail 331 with the rail 331 interposed therebetween. The transfer device 300 is configured to transfer tools between the tool assembly device 200 and the tool storage unit 250, and is also configured to transfer tools between the tool storage unit 250 and the machine tool 400.

[0050] The machine tool 400 is one of the transfer destinations to which the tools are transferred by the transfer device 300. In Figure 1 , six machine tools 400A to 400F are shown as the machine tool 400, but the number of machine tools 400 included in the tool transfer system 10 may be one or more. The machine tool 400 processes a workpiece using a specified tool according to a pre-designed machining program.

[0051] In addition, the tool transfer system 10 may further include a pallet transfer system (not shown). The pallet transfer system is a system for transferring a pallet on which a workpiece is placed to the machine tool 400 according to a pre-determined machining schedule.

[0052] <B. Driving Mechanism of Tool Transfer System 10>

[0053] Next, reference is made to Figure 2 to describe various driving mechanisms in the tool transfer system 10. Figure 2 is a diagram showing a structural example of the driving mechanism of the tool transfer system 10.

[0054] As Figure 2 shown, the tool transfer system 10 includes a control unit 50, remote I / O (Input / Output) units 71 to 73, a tool assembly device 200, a transfer device 300, and a machine tool 400.

[0055] In this specification, the so-called "control unit 50" refers to a device that controls the tool transfer system 10. The device structure of the control unit 50 is arbitrary. The control unit 50 may be composed of a single control unit or multiple control units. In Figure 2In this example, the control unit 50 consists of the management device 100, the PLC 150, and the aforementioned operation terminal 200A.

[0056] The management device 100 is the main computer that manages the tool transport system 10. The management device 100 can consist of one computer or multiple computers. As an example, the management device 100 consists of a computer responsible for tool transport and a computer responsible for pallet transport.

[0057] The PLC 150 controls various industrial equipment used to automate machining processes. The operator terminal 200A is a terminal used to handle various operations related to the loading and unloading of cutting tools.

[0058] The management device 100, PLC 150, and operator terminal 200A are connected to network NW1. The management device 100, PLC 150, and operator terminal 200A can communicate via either a wired or wireless connection. Network NW1 uses Ethernet (registered trademark), etc. The management device 100 and operator terminal 200A send control commands to PLC 150 via network NW1. These control commands specify the tool to be transported, the destination of the tool, and the start / stop of the tool transport.

[0059] Remote I / O units 71-73 and PLC 150 are connected to network NW2. Network NW2 is preferably a field network that guarantees data arrival time and performs fixed-period communication. Such a field network for fixed-period communication can be EtherCAT, EtherNet / IP, CC-Link, or CompoNet.

[0060] The tool assembly device 200 includes one or more motor drivers 234 and one or more motors 235. Figure 2 In the example, two motor drivers 234A and 234B and two motors 235A and 235B are shown.

[0061] A remote I / O unit 71 is provided within or around the tool assembly device 200. The remote I / O unit 71 is used to relay data exchange between various drive units (e.g., motor driver 234) within the tool assembly device 200 and the PLC 150. As an example, the motor driver 234 receives control commands from the PLC 150 via the remote I / O unit 71 at fixed intervals and controls the drive of the motor 235 according to the control commands.

[0062] Motor 235A, for example, controls tool magazine M1 (see below). Figure 14 The motor 235B, for example, controls the drive of the ATC (Automatic Train Control) within the tool assembly device 200.

[0063] Motor driver 234 can be either a servo motor driver or a stepper motor driver. Motor 235 can be either a servo motor or a stepper motor.

[0064] The conveying device 300 includes one or more motor drivers 334 and one or more motors 335. Figure 2 In the example, two motor drivers 334A and 334B and two motors 335A and 335B are shown.

[0065] A remote I / O unit 72 is provided within or around the conveying device 300. The remote I / O unit 72 is used to relay data exchange between various drive units (e.g., motor driver 334) within the conveying device 300 and the PLC 150. As an example, the motor driver 334 receives control commands from the PLC 150 via the remote I / O unit 72 at fixed intervals and controls the drive of the motor 335 according to the control commands.

[0066] Motor 335A, for example, controls the aforementioned slide block 332 (see reference). Figure 1 The motor 335B is used to drive the arm-type robot 330 (see reference). Figure 1 The motor 335B is configured to drive the arm robot 330, corresponding to the number of joints in the arm robot 330.

[0067] Motor driver 334 can be either a servo motor driver or a stepper motor driver. Motor 335 can be either a servo motor or a stepper motor.

[0068] Machine tool 400 includes a CNC (Computer Numerical Control) system 401, one or more motor drivers 411, and one or more motors 412. Figure 2 In the example, two motor drivers 411A and 411B and two motors 412A and 412B are shown.

[0069] A remote I / O unit 72 is provided inside or around the machine tool 400. The remote I / O unit 72 is used to relay data exchange between various drive units (such as the CNC 401) inside the machine tool 400 and the PLC 150. Similar to the motor driver 411 and the motor driver 334, the motor 412 receives control instructions from the PLC 150 via the remote I / O unit 72 at a fixed cycle and controls the drive of the motor 412 according to the control instructions.

[0070] The motor 412A, for example, drives the spindle capable of mounting a tool along the axial direction of the spindle. The motor 412B, for example, drives the spindle to rotate along the rotational direction centered on the axial direction of the spindle.

[0071] The motor driver 411 can be, for example, a servo motor driver or a stepper motor driver. The motor 412 can be either a servo motor or a stepper motor.

[0072] <C. Summary>

[0073] An operator needs to pre-load the tools (hereinafter also referred to as "expected use tools") used in the machine tool 400 during machining into the tool transfer system 10. However, even though the operator is notified that the expected use tools are not held in the tool transfer system 10 just before machining starts, the operator cannot immediately prepare the expected use tools. Therefore, the tool transfer system 10 notifies the operator in advance of the unheld tools expected to be used. As a result, the operator can calmly prepare the expected use tools and load the expected use tools into the machine tool 400 before machining starts.

[0074] Refer to Figure 3 The outline of the method for extracting unheld tools will be described. Figure 3 It is a diagram schematically showing the extraction process of unheld tools expected to be used.

[0075] First, the control unit 50 of the tool transfer system 10 acquires the expected use tool information 127. In the expected use tool information 127, the identification information of each tool used in all the machine tools 400 within a specified time from the current time is specified. This identification information is information for uniquely identifying the tool. As an example, this identification information can be the tool name, the tool ID (Identification: identification number), or the image of the tool. For example, the expected use tools are determined based on the machining schedule for machining workpieces on the machine tool 400. The details of the method for determining the expected use tools will be described later.

[0076] Next, the control unit 50 of the tool transfer system 10 acquires the held tool information 128. The identification information of each tool held by the tool transfer system 10 is specified in the held tool information 128. In addition, the identification information of a tool that cannot be used due to breakage, wear, or the like may not be specified in the held tool information 128.

[0077] Next, the control unit 50 determines the unheld tools among the predicted use tools specified in the predicted use tool information 127 that are not specified in the held tool information 128. In Figure 3 the example, tools "A" to "E" are specified in the predicted use tool information 127, and tools "A", "C", "F", "G", and "H" are specified in the held tool information 128. In this case, the control unit 50 determines the tools "B", "D", and "E" that are not specified in the held tool information 128 among the predicted use tools specified in the predicted use tool information 127 as unheld tools. The identification information of the determined unheld tools is written into the unheld tool information 129, for example.

[0078] After that, the control unit 50 displays the identification information of each tool specified in the unheld tool information 129 on the display (display unit) of the tool transfer system 10. As an example, this display is the display of the operation terminal 200A (refer to Figure 1 ).

[0079] Through the above operations, the tool transfer system 10 can notify the operator of the unheld tools to be used before the start of machining. Thus, the operator can calmly prepare the unheld tools to be used.

[0080] <D. Functional Structure of Tool Transfer System 10>

[0081] Next, refer to Figures 4 to 10 to describe the functional structure for implementing the notification function of unheld tools. Figure 4 is a diagram showing an example of the functional structure of the tool transfer system 10.

[0082] As Figure 4 shown, the tool transfer system 10 includes a schedule generation unit 52, a used tool determination unit 54, a held tool acquisition unit 56, an unheld tool determination unit 58, a tool setting unit 60, and an output unit 62 as functional structures. Below, these structures will be described in sequence.

[0083] In addition, the configuration of each functional structure is arbitrary. As an example, Figure 4 all the functional structures shown can be installed in the above-mentioned management device 100 (refer to Figure 2 ), or can be installed in the above-mentioned PLC 150 (refer to Figure 2It can also be installed on the aforementioned operating terminal 200A (see reference). Figure 2 Alternatively, you can also... Figure 4 A portion of the shown functional structure is installed in the management device 100, a portion of the remaining functional structure is installed in the PLC 150, and the remaining functional structure is installed in the operation terminal 200A. Alternatively, Figure 4 Part of the functional structure shown can be installed on external devices such as servers, or on dedicated hardware.

[0084] (D1. Timetable Generation Department 52)

[0085] First, refer to Figures 5-7 right Figure 4 The functions of the timetable generation unit 52 shown will be explained.

[0086] Timetable Generation Department 52 based on Figure 5 The processing settings 123 and shown are Figure 6 The workpiece database 124 shown is used to generate Figure 7 The processing schedule shown is 126.

[0087] Figure 5 This diagram illustrates an example of the data structure for processing setting 123. The operator pre-registers the workpieces to be processed by registering processing setting 123. Processing setting 123 is registered by the operator, for example, in the aforementioned management device 100 or the aforementioned operation terminal 200A. The information registered by the operator includes, for example, identification information of the workpieces to be processed, the number of workpieces to be processed, and the processing sequence of the workpieces.

[0088] exist Figure 5 In the example, the processing tasks of 10 workpieces "A" with a processing time of 15 minutes, 8 workpieces "D" with a processing time of 35 minutes, 5 workpieces "C" with a processing time of 25 minutes, and 4 workpieces "B" with a processing time of 35 minutes were registered in the processing order as processing settings 123.

[0089] Figure 6 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the data structure of the workpiece database 124. As an example, the workpiece database 124 specifies, according to the workpiece identification information, the machining program used to perform the machining of the workpiece, the cutting tools used in machining the workpiece, the machining time required for machining the workpiece, and other information related to the machining of the workpiece.

[0090] The machining program specified in the workpiece database 124 is registered by the operator in, for example, the management device 100, the operating terminal 200A, or the machine tool 400. The method for generating this machining program is arbitrary. As an example, the machine tool 400 may have the following function: the operator automatically generates the machining program by answering questions in a dialogic manner. For example, the machining program may be generated using this function. Alternatively, the machining program may be designed by the operator writing program code.

[0091] The expected tool used, specified in the workpiece database 124, is preset by the user, for example. Alternatively, the expected tool can be determined based on the machining program. More specifically, the machining program specifies a command code for calling the expected tool. This command code is, for example, a T-code for specifying the tool mounted on the spindle. The timetable generation unit 52 determines the identification information of the tool used in the machining of each workpiece by searching for this T-code in each machining program.

[0092] The processing time specified in the workpiece database 124 is, for example, pre-entered by the operator. Alternatively, the processing time can also be calculated based on the actual processing conditions of each workpiece in the past.

[0093] The timetable generation unit 52 refers to the workpiece database 124 to determine the processing time for each workpiece specified in the processing settings 123. Then, the timetable generation unit 52 generates a processing timetable 126 based on the determined processing time, the number of each workpiece specified in the processing settings 123, and the processing order of each workpiece specified in the processing settings 123.

[0094] Figure 7 This is a diagram showing a machining schedule 126 as an example. Machining schedule 126 specifies the machining tasks for processing workpieces on each machine tool 400.

[0095] exist Figure 7 In the example, machine tools 400A to 400D were assigned machining tasks for 2 workpieces "A", 1 workpiece "D", 1 workpiece "C", and 1 workpiece "B", respectively. Machine tools 400E and 400F were assigned machining tasks for 1 workpiece "A", 2 workpieces "D", and 2 workpieces "C", respectively.

[0096] Furthermore, it is not always necessary to assign machining tasks to workpieces based on their machining sequence. For example, machining tasks can also be assigned to workpieces of the same type on the same machine tool 400.

[0097] (D2. Using the tool determination section 54)

[0098] Next, refer to Figure 8 right Figure 4 The function of the tool determining unit 54 shown will be explained. Figure 8 It is a diagram that provides a summary of the process for determining the tools to be used.

[0099] The tool determination unit 54 determines the expected tool to be used in machine tools 400A to 400F based on the machining schedule 126 for machining workpieces on machine tools 400A to 400F.

[0100] More specifically, firstly, the tool determination unit 54 extracts information from the machining schedule 126 from the current time up to a predetermined time ΔT. The length of time ΔT can be arbitrarily set by the user. For example, the length of time ΔT can be set to several minutes or several hours.

[0101] Next, the tool determination unit 54 refers to the workpiece database 124 to determine the tool expected to be used when machining each workpiece as specified in the machining schedule 126, and outputs the identification information of the expected tool as expected tool information 127.

[0102] (D3. Tool Acquisition Section 56)

[0103] Next, referring to the above... Figure 3 right Figure 4 The function of the tool holding and acquiring unit 56 shown will be explained.

[0104] The tool holding and acquiring unit 56 acquires tool holding information 128. Tool holding information 128 specifies the identification information of each tool held by the tool transport system 10. For example, tool holding information 128 includes identification information of tools held by the tool assembly device 200, identification information of tools stored in the tool storage unit 250, identification information of tools held by the transport device 300, and identification information of tools held by all machine tools 400.

[0105] The tool information 128 is stored, for example, by the management device 100 (see reference). Figure 2 The management device 100 manages the tool by writing the tool identification information into the tool storage information 128 based on the fact that a tool is mounted in the tool assembly device 200. Conversely, the management device 100 deletes the tool identification information from the tool storage information 128 based on the fact that a tool has been removed from the tool assembly device 200.

[0106] (D4. Tool not retained 58)

[0107] Next, referring to the above... Figure 3 right Figure 4 The function of the tool-holding determination unit 58 shown will be explained.

[0108] The unused tool determination unit 58 determines the unused tools expected to be used in machine tools 400A to 400E based on the expected tool usage information 127 and the existing tool information 128. Typically, the unused tool determination unit 58 determines the tools that are not specified in the existing tool information 128 from the expected tools used in the expected tool usage information 127 as the expected unused tools.

[0109] (D5. Tool setting unit 60)

[0110] Next, refer to Figure 9 right Figure 4 The function of the tool setting unit 60 shown will be explained.

[0111] The tool setting unit 60 accepts input related to tool settings. For example, tool settings are input by operators or managers. The content input by operators may include, for example, tool attribute information. This attribute information describes tool characteristics such as tool shape or tool condition. As an example, this attribute information includes tool diameter, tool length, and tool life. Tool diameter represents the diameter of the tool in a direction orthogonal to the spindle axis. Tool length represents the length of the tool in the spindle axis. Tool life is an indicator indicating when the tool should be replaced. Tool life is expressed, for example, by usable time or number of uses.

[0112] For example, input devices such as a keyboard and mouse are used to input attribute information. This input device is, for example, the input device 108 described later in the management device 100 (see reference). Figure 18 The input device 208 (see below) of the operation terminal 200A Figure 20 The tool setting unit 60, based on the input of tool attribute information, establishes an association between the attribute information and the tool identification information in the tool database 130.

[0113] Figure 9 This diagram illustrates an example of the data structure of the tool database 130. The tool database 130 contains identification information for multiple tools. For example... Figure 9 As shown, the tool with registered attribute information is associated with the attribute information, while the tool without registered attribute information is not associated with the attribute information.

[0114] (D6. Output Section 62)

[0115] Next, regarding Figure 4 The function of the output unit 62 shown will be explained.

[0116] The output unit 62 outputs the unused tool determined by the unused tool determination unit 58 to the designated output destination. The output destination from which the unused tool is output by the output unit 62 is arbitrary.

[0117] In one respect, the output destination is a display unit within the tool transport system 10. This display unit is, for example, an operation terminal 200A (see reference). Figure 1 The display shows the unused tool that is expected to be used, allowing the operator to monitor it.

[0118] On another front, the output destination is a speaker (not shown) located within the tool transport system 10. Thus, the unheld tool is expected to be used, and the operator can then monitor the unheld tool by sound.

[0119] On another front, the output destination is a communication terminal (not shown) capable of communicating with the tool transport system 10. This communication terminal can be a desktop PC, a laptop PC, or a portable device such as a smartphone or tablet. Thus, any unused tool intended for use is sent to the communication terminal, allowing the user of the communication terminal to access and control the unused tool.

[0120] Figure 10 This diagram illustrates an example of the output mode of the output unit 62. Figure 10 As an example of the output mode of the output unit 62, the output screen 80 is shown.

[0121] The output screen 80 may be a display unit within the tool transport system 10 or a display unit of a communication terminal capable of communicating with the tool transport system 10.

[0122] The output screen 80 contains at least the identification information of the unused tools to be used. As an example, the output screen 80 includes a machining schedule 90 and tool information 91.

[0123] Processing schedule 90 includes the aforementioned processing schedule 126 (see reference). Figure 7 (This refers to) part or all of the information. For example, the processing schedule 90 includes: a sequence number 90A indicating the execution order of the processing tasks, date information 90B indicating the processing day, processing start information 90C indicating the processing start time, machine tool identification information 90D indicating the machine tool used for processing, tool set 90E indicating the tool set used for processing, and processing time information 90F indicating the processing time required.

[0124] Tool information 91 includes the aforementioned tool database 130 (see reference). Figure 9( ) Some or all of the information. As an example, tool information 91 includes, for example, remaining time information 91A indicating the remaining time until the tool becomes needed, storage location information 91B indicating the storage location of the tool, tool identification information 91C, reference information when preparing the tool 91D, lifespan information 91E indicating the time until the tool's lifespan ends, and tool transport status 91F.

[0125] The operator can determine the location of the tool to be used by checking the storage location information 91B. The storage location information 91B includes, for example, information indicating that the storage location is the tool assembly unit 200 (e.g., "TSS"), information indicating that the storage location is the tool storage unit 250 (e.g., "CTS_01"), information indicating that the storage location is the transfer device 300 (e.g., "Robot"), and information indicating that the tool is not stored (e.g., "Floor" or "Short").

[0126] The unused tooling to be used is highlighted compared to other tools. The method of highlighting is arbitrary. For example, it can be achieved by displaying the unused tooling to be used in a specific character color (e.g., red). Alternatively, it can be achieved by displaying the unused tooling to be used in a specific background color (e.g., red). Or, it can be achieved by adding a shading line to the unused tooling to be used. Alternatively, it can be achieved by displaying the unused tooling to be used in a way that makes its display size larger than that of other tools. Figure 10 In the example, the shading emphasizes that the knife was not kept.

[0127] Furthermore, the notification method for the expected use of unclaimed cutting tools is not limited to... Figure 10 For example, any method that allows the operator to know the unused tools to be used can be used instead. As another example, only the identification information of the unused tools to be used could be displayed.

[0128] Additionally, the output unit 62 will indicate whether the attribute information of the unused tool has been registered in the aforementioned tool database 130 (see reference). Figure 9 The information is displayed on the output screen 80. This information is, for example, displayed in the save location information 91B column of the output screen 80. As an example, unused tools whose tool attribute information is registered in the tool database 130 are represented as "Floor". On the other hand, unused tools whose tool attribute information is not registered in the tool database 130 are represented as "Short".

[0129] The tool's attribute information is referenced by the machining program during processing, therefore it needs to be registered before machining begins. This registration can be done, for example, using a tool measuring tool. This measurement is performed by the operator in the tool measuring room. This measurement process takes time. Therefore, the time required for the operator to prepare the tool varies depending on whether the tool's attribute information has been registered. The operator can prepare the tool more efficiently by confirming "Floor" or "Short".

[0130] Preferably, the output unit 62 sends the identification information of unused tools that are expected to be used but whose attribute information is not registered in the tool database 130 to the communication terminal. That is, the output unit 62 sends at least the identification information of unused tools represented as "Short" to the communication terminal. At this time, the identification information of unused tools represented as "Floor" may or may not be sent to the communication terminal.

[0131] Typically, the communication terminal destined for the transmission is pre-registered. Preferably, the communication terminal destined for the transmission includes at least one of a PC located in the tool measuring room and a portable terminal held by the operator performing the tool measuring operation. This allows the operator to easily access any unheld tools that require measuring and registration.

[0132] Additionally, the output unit 62 calculates the remaining time from the current time until the unused tool becomes needed in the tool transport system 10, and displays this remaining time on the output screen 80. This remaining time is, for example, displayed in the remaining time information 91A column of the output screen 80. This remaining time is equivalent to the grace period until the operator prepares the tool. Hereinafter, this remaining time will also be referred to as the "grace period".

[0133] As an example, based on the aforementioned processing schedule 126 (refer to...) Figure 8 The grace period is calculated using this method. As mentioned above, in the machining schedule 126, the start and end times for machining each workpiece are specified for each machine tool 400. Additionally, as mentioned above, in the aforementioned workpiece database 124 (see...), Figure 8 The tooling required for machining each workpiece is specified in the workpiece database 124 and the machining schedule 126. Therefore, the output unit 62 can determine the time when each tooling is needed by referring to the workpiece database 124 and the machining schedule 126. The output unit 62 calculates the time from the current time until the determined time as a grace period and displays this grace period in the remaining time information 91A. By checking the grace period shown in the remaining time information 91A, the operator can easily determine when to prepare any unused tools that are expected to be used.

[0134] Preferably, the output unit 62 displays, on the output screen 80, the identification information of the unowned tool with the shortest remaining time shown by the remaining time information 91A among the unowned tools to be used, in a manner emphasized compared to the identification information of other unowned tools.

[0135] The method of this emphasized display is arbitrary. As an example, this emphasized display is achieved by displaying the identification information of the unowned tool with the shortest remaining time in a specific character color (e.g., red). Or, this emphasized display is achieved by displaying the identification information of the unowned tool with the shortest remaining time in a specific background color (e.g., red). Or, this emphasized display is achieved by adding a hatching line to the identification information of the unowned tool with the shortest remaining time. Or, this emphasized display is achieved by displaying the display size of the unowned tool with the shortest remaining time in a manner larger than the display size of the identification information of other tools. Thus, it is easy for the operator to determine the unowned tool that should be prepared preferentially.

[0136] <E. Modified Example>

[0137] Next, refer to Figures 11-13 The tool transfer system 10 according to the modified example will be described.

[0138] The above-described tool transfer system 10 determines the unowned tool to be used and outputs the identification information of this unowned tool. In contrast, the tool transfer system 10 according to the modified example determines the number of this unowned tool and further outputs the number of this unowned tool. Thus, the operator can easily grasp how many tools should be prepared.

[0139] Refer to Figure 11 The function of the used tool determination unit 54A according to the modified example will be described. Figure 11 It is a diagram schematically showing the determination process of the used tool determined by the used tool determination unit 54A.

[0140] The used tool determination unit 54A determines the used tool to be used and the number of used tools to be used in the machine tools 400A to 400F by tool type based on the above-described processing schedule 126.

[0141] More specifically, first, the used tool determination unit 54A extracts the information from the current time to the time after a specified time ΔT in the processing schedule 126. The length of the time ΔT can be arbitrarily set by the user. The length of the time ΔT is set to, for example, several minutes or several hours.

[0142] Next, the used tool determination unit 54A refers to the above-described workpiece database 124 to determine the used tool to be used during processing for each workpiece specified by the processing schedule 126.

[0143] Next, the tool determination unit 54A determines the maximum number of tools that can be used simultaneously for each tool, and obtains the determined information as the expected tool information 127A.

[0144] exist Figure 11 In the example of the expected tool usage information 127A shown, for tool "A", a maximum of 6 tools can be used simultaneously. For tool "B", a maximum of 4 tools can be used simultaneously. For tool "C", a maximum of 6 tools can be used simultaneously. For tool "D", a maximum of 6 tools can be used simultaneously. For tool "E", a maximum of 4 tools can be used simultaneously.

[0145] so, Figure 11 The expected tooling information shown is 127A and Figure 3 The difference in the expected tool usage information 127 shown is that it not only specifies the identification information of each tool used in the machine tool 400 within a specified time from the present, but also specifies the number of tools used simultaneously.

[0146] Next, refer to Figure 12 The tool information 128A according to the modified example will be explained. Figure 12 This is a diagram showing the tool information 128A according to a modified example.

[0147] Figure 12 The tool information shown is 128A and Figure 3 The difference in the tool information 128 shown is that it not only specifies the identification information of each tool held by the tool transport system 10, but also specifies the number of each tool.

[0148] Next, refer to Figure 13 The function of the tool-not-held determination unit 58A according to the modified example will be explained. Figure 13 This diagram provides a general overview of the process by which the unused tool determination unit 58A determines the unused tool.

[0149] The unused tool determination unit 58A determines the number of unused tools expected to be used, based on the expected tool usage information 127A and the stored tool information 128A, according to the tool type. More specifically, the unused tool determination unit 58A subtracts the number of the same type of tool specified in the stored tool information 128A from the number of each type of tool specified in the expected tool usage information 127A, and outputs the result as the unused tool information 129A. Tools whose subtraction result is less than 0 are additionally stored by the tool transport system 10, so the unused tool determination unit 58A sets the subtraction result to 0.

[0150] The output unit 62 outputs the number of the non-held tools and the identification information of the non-held tools to be used to other devices. The output destination of the non-held tools output by the output unit 62 is arbitrary. Thus, the operator can grasp the number of non-held tools to be prepared.

[0151] <F. Tool Loading Process of Loading Tools into the Tool Storage Unit 250>

[0152] Next, reference is made to Figure 14 and Figure 15 to explain the tool loading process. Figure 14 is a diagram schematically showing the flow of the loading process of loading tools from the tool assembly device 200 into the tool storage unit 250.

[0153] In step S1, the operator assembles the tool T1 to be loaded into the tool magazine M1. A barcode or QR code (registered trademark) reading device (not shown) is provided near the position where the tool T1 is assembled, and this reading device reads the barcode or QR code attached to the tool T1. Thus, the identification information of the tool T1 to be loaded is read. When the assembly of the tool T1 is completed, the operator performs a completion operation on the operation terminal 200A.

[0154] Next, in step S2, the control unit 50 controls the motor 235A (refer to Figure 2 ) to drive the tool magazine M1 in the tool assembly device 200. Thus, the control unit 50 moves the tool T1 to be loaded to a specified tool change position. An ATC (Automatic Train Control) 238 is provided near this tool change position. The ATC 238 unloads the tool T1 located at this tool change position from the magazine M1 and rotates it half a turn.

[0155] Next, in step S3, the articulated robot 330 unloads the tool T1 from the ATC 238 and places the tool T1 at the temporary placement location 336 on the slide base 332. In the case where there are other tools to be loaded, the processes of steps S1 to S3 are repeated within the range not exceeding the maximum storage quantity of the temporary placement location 336.

[0156] Next, in step S4, the control unit 50 controls the motor 335A to drive the slide base 332. Thus, the control unit 50 moves the slide base 332 to the indicated tool loading position. For example, this tool loading position is determined based on Figure 15 the storage information 174 shown.

[0157] Figure 15This is a diagram showing an example of the data structure of the storage information 174. In the storage information 174, each storage location in the tool storage unit 250, the coordinate value of this storage location, the identification information of the tool stored in this storage location, the storage state of the tool at this storage location, and the remaining life of the tool stored in this storage location are associated with each other.

[0158] The storage locations defined in the storage information 174 can be represented by numbers such as IDs or by storage location names. The coordinate values of the storage locations defined in the storage information 174 can be defined in a two-dimensional manner or in a three-dimensional manner. In Figure 15 this example, the coordinate values are represented by the coordinate value "x" in the direction parallel to the rail 331 and the coordinate value "z" in the vertical direction. The identification information of the tool defined in the storage information 174 can be represented by a tool number such as an ID or by a tool name. The storage state defined in the storage information 174 indicates, for example, whether the storage location is empty or whether the tool stored in this storage location is normal, etc. The remaining life of the tool defined in the storage information 174 can be represented by the current total usage time relative to the maximum available usage time of the tool or by the current total number of usage times relative to the maximum available number of usage times of the tool.

[0159] The control unit 50 determines the storage destination of the tool T1 by referring to the empty storage locations defined in the storage information 174. In the case where there are multiple empty storage locations, the control unit 50 can either determine one storage location randomly selected from the multiple empty storage locations as the storage destination or determine one storage location closer to the transfer device 300 selected from the multiple empty storage locations as the storage destination.

[0160] Refer to again Figure 14 , in step S5, the articulated robot 330 unloads the tool T1 to be loaded from the temporary placement location 336 and stores the tool T1 at the determined storage destination. After that, the control unit 50 writes the storage location of the tool T1 and the identification information of the tool T1 into the storage information 174.

[0161] In the case where there are other tools to be loaded left on the temporary placement location 336, the control unit 50 repeats the processes of steps S4 and S5 until the tools on the temporary placement location 336 disappear.

[0162] <G. Tool Loading Process for Loading Tools into the Machine Tool 400>

[0163] Next, refer to Figure 16 for an explanation of the tool loading process for the tool following Figure 14 this. Figure 16This is a diagram schematically showing the process flow of loading a tool from the tool storage unit 250 into the machine tool 400.

[0164] At a certain timing, the control unit 50 receives a transfer instruction to transfer the tool T2 to the machine tool 400. For example, an operator designates the tool T2 as the transfer object and the machine tool 400 as the transfer destination on the operation terminal 200A. Based on receiving the transfer instruction for the tool T2, the control unit 50 determines the storage location of the tool T2 according to the above storage information 174 (refer to Figure 15 ). After that, the control unit 50 drives the slide base 332 by controlling the motor 335A (refer to Figure 2 ) to move the slide base 332 to the front of the storage location of the tool T2.

[0165] Next, in step S11, the articulated robot 330 takes out the tool T2 as the transfer object from the tool storage unit 250 and places the tool T2 on the temporary placement location 336 on the slide base 332.

[0166] Next, in step S12, the control unit 50 drives the slide base 332 to the position of the machine tool 400 as the transfer destination by controlling the motor 335A.

[0167] Next, in step S13, the articulated robot 330 delivers the tool T2 to the ATC 438 provided in the machine tool 400 as the transfer destination. After that, the ATC 438 installs the tool T2 received from the articulated robot 330 into the ATC438 inside the machine tool 400. After that, the ATC 438 assembles the tool T2 into the tool magazine inside the machine tool 400. Thus, the tool T2 becomes a state where it can be used in the machine tool 400.

[0168] <H. Unloading process of the tool to the tool assembly device 200>

[0169] Next, refer to Figure 17 to explain the unloading process of the tool. Figure 17 This is a diagram schematically showing the process flow of unloading a tool from the tool storage unit 250 to the tool assembly device 200.

[0170] At a certain timing, the control unit 50 receives an unloading instruction to unload the tool T3 to the tool assembly device 200. Based on this, the control unit 50 determines the storage destination of the tool T3 according to the above storage information 174 (refer to Figure 15 ). After that, the control unit 50 controls the above motor 335A (refer to Figure 2) to drive the slide base 332 and move the slide base 332 to the front of the storage location of the tool T3. Next, the articulated robot 330 takes out the tool T3 from the tool storage unit 250 and places the tool T3 on the temporary placement location 336 on the slide base 332. In addition, the control unit 50 deletes the identification information of the tool T3 from the storage information 174 and rewrites the storage source of the tool T3 to an empty state.

[0171] Next, in step S21, the control unit 50 drives the slide base 332 by controlling the above-described motor 335A and moves the slide base 332 to the front of the tool assembly device 200.

[0172] Next, in step S22, the articulated robot 330 removes the tool T3 to be carried out from the temporary placement location 336 and mounts the tool T3 on the above-described ATC 238 (refer to Figure 14 ) provided in the tool assembly device 200. After that, the ATC 238 mounts the tool T3 in the tool magazine M1 of the tool assembly device 200.

[0173] Next, in step S23, the control unit 50 drives the tool magazine M1 by controlling the above-described motor 235A and moves the tool T3 to be carried out to the exit. After that, the operator takes out the tool T3 to be carried out from this exit.

[0174] <I. Hardware Structure of the Management Device 100>

[0175] Next, refer to Figure 18 to Figure 2 explain the hardware structure of the management device 100 shown. Figure 18 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the hardware structure of the management device 100.

[0176] The management device 100 includes a control circuit 101, a ROM (Read Only Memory), a RAM (Random Access Memory) 103, a communication interface 104, a display interface 105, an input interface 107, and a storage device 120. These components are connected to the bus 110.

[0177] The control circuit 101 may be composed of at least one integrated circuit. The integrated circuit may be composed of at least one CPU (Central Processing Unit), at least one GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), at least one ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), at least one FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array), or a combination thereof.

[0178] The control circuit 101 controls the operation of the management device 100 by executing various programs such as the control program 122 and the operating system. Based on receiving the execution command of the control program 122, the control circuit 101 reads the control program 122 from the storage device 120 or the ROM 102 into the RAM 103. The RAM 103 functions as working memory, temporarily storing various data required for executing the control program 122.

[0179] The communication interface 104 is connected to a LAN (Local Area Network), an antenna, etc. The management device 100 is connected to the network NW1 via the communication interface 104. Thus, the management device 100 exchanges data with external devices connected to the same network NW1. These external devices include, for example, a PLC 150, a server (not shown), etc.

[0180] The display interface 105 is connected to the display 106. The display interface 105 sends image signals to the display 106 for displaying images according to instructions from the control circuit 101, etc. The display 106 may display, for example, an operation screen for receiving tool loading instructions, a selection screen for specifying the tool to be loaded, etc. The display 106 may be, for example, a liquid crystal display, an organic EL (Electroluminescence) display, or other display device. Furthermore, the display 106 may be integrated with the management device 100 or configured independently of the management device 100.

[0181] Input interface 107 is connected to input device 108. Input device 108 may be, for example, a mouse, keyboard, touch panel, or other device capable of accepting user operations. Furthermore, input device 108 may be integrated with management device 100 or configured independently of management device 100.

[0182] The storage device 120 is, for example, a storage medium such as a hard disk or a flash memory. The storage device 120 stores the control program 122, the above workpiece database 124, the above machining schedule 126, the above held tool information 128, the above tool database 130, and the like. The storage locations of these are not limited to the storage device 120, and they may also be stored in the storage area of the control circuit 101 (such as a cache memory, etc.), the ROM 102, the RAM 103, other devices (such as a server, the PLC 150, or the operation terminal 200A), and the like.

[0183] The control program 122 is a program for implementing part or all of the Figure 4 function structure shown above. The control program 122 may not be provided as a separate program, but may be provided as part of an arbitrary program. In this case, the transfer control processing based on the control program 122 is implemented in cooperation with an arbitrary program. Even a program that does not include such a part of the module does not deviate from the gist of the control program 122 according to the present embodiment. And, part or all of the functions provided by the control program 122 may also be implemented by dedicated hardware. And, the management device 100 may be configured in such a way that a so-called cloud service in which at least one server executes part of the processing of the control program 122.

[0184] <Hardware Structure of J.PLC 150>

[0185] Refer to Figure 19 For Figure 2 an example of the hardware structure of the PLC 150 shown above is described. Figure 19 is a block diagram showing the main hardware structure of the PLC 150.

[0186] The PLC 150 includes a control circuit 151, a ROM (Read Only Memory), a RAM (Random Access Memory) 153, communication interfaces 154, 155, and a storage device 170. These components are connected to the bus 160.

[0187] The control circuit 151 is composed of at least one integrated circuit. The integrated circuit is, for example, composed of at least one CPU, at least one MPU (Micro Processing Unit), at least one ASIC, at least one FPGA, or a combination thereof, etc.

[0188] The control circuit 151 controls the operations of the transfer device 300 and the machine tool 400 by executing various programs such as the control program 172. Based on the situation that the execution command of the control program 172 is received, the control circuit 151 reads the control program 172 from the storage device 170 into the ROM 152. The RAM 153 functions as a working memory and temporarily stores various data required for executing the control program 172.

[0189] The communication interface 154 is connected to a LAN, an antenna, etc. The PLC 150 is connected to the network NW1 via the communication interface 154. Thus, the PLC 150 exchanges data with external devices connected to the network NW1. Such external devices include, for example, the management device 100, a server (not shown), etc.

[0190] The communication interface 155 is an interface for connecting to the network NW2 which is a field network. The PLC 150 exchanges data with external devices connected to the network NW2 via the communication interface 155. Such external devices include, for example, the above-mentioned remote I / O units 71 - 73, etc.

[0191] The storage device 170 is, for example, a storage medium such as a hard disk, a flash memory, etc. The storage device 170 stores the control program 172 and the above-mentioned storage information 174 (refer to Figure 15 ). Their storage locations are not limited to the storage device 170, and they can also be stored in the storage area (such as a cache area, etc.) of the control circuit 151, the ROM 152, the RAM 153, external devices (such as a server), etc.

[0192] The control program 172 is a program for implementing part or all of the functional structures shown above Figure 4 . The control program 172 may not be provided as a separate program, but may be incorporated as part of an arbitrary program. In this case, the control processing according to the present embodiment is implemented in cooperation with an arbitrary program. Even a program that does not include such a part of the module does not deviate from the gist of the control program 172 according to the present embodiment. And, part or all of the functions provided by the control program 172 can also be implemented by dedicated hardware. And, the PLC 150 may be configured in such a way that a so-called cloud service in which at least one server executes part of the processing of the control program 172.

[0193] <Hardware Structure of the Operation Terminal 200A>

[0194] Refer to Figure 20 For Figure 1 the hardware structure of the operation terminal 200A shown is described. Figure 20 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the hardware structure of the operation terminal 200A.

[0195] The operating terminal 200A includes a control circuit 201, a ROM 202, a RAM 203, a communication interface 204, a display interface 205, an input interface 207, and a storage device 220. These components are connected to a bus 210.

[0196] The control circuit 201 may be composed of at least one integrated circuit. The integrated circuit may be composed of at least one CPU, at least one GPU, at least one ASIC, at least one FPGA, or a combination thereof.

[0197] The control circuit 201 controls the operation of the operating terminal 200A by executing various programs such as the control program 222 and the operating system. Based on receiving the execution command of the control program 222, the control circuit 201 reads the control program 222 from the storage device 220 or the ROM 202 into the RAM 203. The RAM 203 functions as working memory, temporarily storing various data required for executing the control program 222.

[0198] Communication interface 204 is connected to a LAN port, antenna, etc. The operating terminal 200A connects to network NW1 via communication interface 204. Thus, the operating terminal 200A exchanges data with external devices connected to the same network NW1. These external devices include, for example, a PLC 150 and a server (not shown).

[0199] The display interface 205 is connected to the display 206. The display interface 205 sends image signals to the display 206 for displaying images according to instructions from the control circuit 201, etc. The display 206 may display, for example, an operation screen for receiving tool loading instructions, a tool selection screen for specifying the tool to be loaded, or a machine tool selection screen for specifying the machine tool 400 as the loading destination. The display 206 may be, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD), an organic EL display, or other display devices. Furthermore, the display 206 may be integrated with the operation terminal 200A or configured independently of the operation terminal 200A.

[0200] Input interface 207 is connected to input device 208. Input device 208 may be, for example, a mouse, keyboard, touch panel, or other device capable of accepting user operations. Furthermore, input device 208 may be integrated with operating terminal 200A or configured independently of operating terminal 200A.

[0201] The storage device 220 is, for example, a storage medium such as a hard disk or a flash memory. The storage device 220 stores the control program 222 and the like. The storage location of the control program 222 is not limited to the storage device 220, and the control program 222 may also be stored in the storage area of the control circuit 201 (such as a cache memory), the ROM 202, the RAM 203, an external device (such as a server), etc.

[0202] The control program 222 is a program for implementing part or all of the Figure 4 function structure shown above. The control program 222 may not be provided as a separate program, but may be provided as part of any program. In this case, the control processing based on the control program 222 is implemented in cooperation with any program. Even a program that does not include such a part of the module does not deviate from the gist of the control program 222 according to the present embodiment. And, part or all of the functions provided by the control program 222 may also be implemented by dedicated hardware. And, the operation terminal 200A may be configured in such a so-called cloud service manner that at least one server executes part of the processing of the control program 222.

[0203] <L. Flowchart>

[0204] Next, a control flow when identifying information of unowned tools expected to be used is described with reference to Figure 21 the following. Figure 21 It is a flowchart showing the process of outputting the identification information of unowned tools expected to be used.

[0205] Figure 21 Part or all of the processes shown in are defined by the above control program 122 (refer to Figure 18 ). Or, Figure 21 Part or all of the processes shown in are defined by the above control program 172 (refer to Figure 19 ). Or, Figure 21 Part or all of the processes shown in are defined by the above control program 222 (refer to Figure 20 ). Or, Figure 21 Part or all of the processes shown in may also be executed by circuit elements or other hardware.

[0206] In step S110, the control unit 50 functions as the above-mentioned schedule generation unit 52 (refer to Figure 4 ) and generates a processing schedule 126 based on the machining setting 123 and the workpiece database 124. Since the function of the schedule generation unit 52 is as described above, its description will not be repeated.

[0207] In step S112, the control unit 50 functions as the above-mentioned used tool determination unit 54 (refer to Figure 4 ) Functions, based on the workpiece database 124 and the machining schedule 126, to determine the tools expected to be used in the tool transfer system 10 during the period from the current time to a specified time later. Since the function of the tool usage determination unit 54 is as described above, its description will not be repeated.

[0208] In step S114, the control unit 50 functions as the above-mentioned held tool acquisition unit 56 (refer to Figure 4 ) to acquire the held tool information 128. The identification information of each tool held by the tool transfer system 10 is specified in the held tool information 128. Since the function of the held tool acquisition unit 56 is as described above, its description will not be repeated.

[0209] In step S116, the control unit 50 functions as the above-mentioned non-held tool determination unit 58 (refer to Figure 4 ) to determine, among the tools specified in the held tool information 128, the tools other than the expected usage tools determined in step S112 as non-held tools. Since the function of the non-held tool determination unit 58 is as described above, its description will not be repeated.

[0210] In step S118, the control unit 50 functions as the above-mentioned output unit 62 (refer to Figure 4 ) to output the identification information of the expected non-held tools to be used determined in step S116 to a specified output destination. Since the function of the output unit 62 is as described above, its description will not be repeated.

[0211] <M. Summary>

[0212] As described above, the tool transfer system 10 determines the non-held tools that are expected to be used during the period from the current time to a specified time later and are not held in the tool transfer system 10, and displays the identification information of the non-held tools on the display. Thereby, the operator can know the expected non-held tools to be used before the machining starts and can calmly prepare the non-held tools.

[0213] It should be considered that the embodiments disclosed herein are illustrative in all aspects and not restrictive. The scope of the present disclosure is not represented by the above description but by the claims, and is intended to include all modifications within the meaning and scope equivalent to the claims.

[0214] Explanation of Reference Numerals

[0215] 10: Tool transport system; 50: Control unit; 52: Timetable generation unit; 54, 54A: Tool used determination unit; 56: Tool held acquisition unit; 58, 58A: Tool not held determination unit; 60: Tool setting unit; 62: Output unit; 71, 72, 73: Remote I / O unit; 80: Output screen; 90, 126: Machining timetable; 90A: Serial number; 90B: Date information; 90C: Machining start information; 90D: Machine tool identification information; 90E: Tool set; 90F: Machining time Information; 91: Tool Information; 91A: Remaining Time Information; 91B: Storage Location Information; 91C: Tool Identification Information; 91D: Reference Information; 91E: Lifespan Information; 100: Management Device; 101, 151, 201: Control Circuit; 102, 152, 202: ROM; 103, 153, 203: RAM; 104, 154, 155, 204: Communication Interface; 105, 205: Display Interface; 106, 206: Display; 107, 207: Input Interface 108, 208: Input devices; 110, 160, 210: Bus; 120, 170, 220: Storage devices; 122, 172, 222: Control programs; 123: Machining settings; 124: Workpiece database; 127, 127A: Expected tool information; 128, 128A: Existing tool information; 129, 129A: Unexisted tool information; 130: Tool database; 174: Storage information; 200: Tool assembly device; 200A: Operating terminal; 234, 23 4A, 234B, 334, 334A, 334B, 411, 411A, 411B: Motor drivers; 235, 235A, 235B, 335, 335A, 335B, 412, 412A, 412B: Motors; 238, 438: ATC; 250: Tool storage unit; 300: Conveying device; 330: Arm robot; 331: Track; 332: Sliding seat; 336: Temporary storage area; 400, 400A, 400D, 400E, 400F: Machine tools.

Claims

1. A tool conveyance system comprising: a display section; a plurality of machine tools; a tool storage section for storing a plurality of tools; a conveyance device for conveying a specified tool among the tools stored in the tool storage section to a specified machine tool among the plurality of machine tools; and a control section for controlling the tool conveyance system, the control section performing the following processes: acquiring tool possession information that specifies identification information of each tool possessed by the tool conveyance system; determining a plurality of tools that are expected to be used in the plurality of machine tools based on a processing schedule for processing workpieces with the plurality of machine tools; determining a non-possessed tool that is not specified in the tool possession information among the plurality of tools that are expected to be used; and displaying identification information of the non-possessed tool in the display section, wherein the control section further performs the following processes: calculating, based on the processing schedule, a remaining time until a need arises in the tool conveyance system for the non-possessed tool; and displaying the remaining time related to the non-possessed tool in the display section.

2. The tool conveyance system according to claim 1, wherein the tool conveyance system further comprises a tool database that contains identification information of a plurality of tools, the control section further performs the following processes: associating, based on a case where attribute information of a tool is input, the attribute information with the identification information of the tool in the tool database; and displaying information indicating whether the attribute information of the non-possessed tool is registered in the tool database in the display section.

3. The tool conveyance system according to claim 2, wherein the tool conveyance system is configured to be able to communicate with a communication terminal, the control section further performs a process of transmitting identification information of a non-possessed tool for which the attribute information is not registered in the tool database to the communication terminal.

4. The tool conveyance system according to claim 1, wherein the control section displays identification information of a non-possessed tool for which the remaining time is the shortest among the non-possessed tools in the display section in a manner emphasized compared with identification information of other non-possessed tools.

5. A control method of a tool conveyance system comprising: a display section; a plurality of machine tools; a tool storage section for storing a plurality of tools; and a conveyance device for conveying a specified tool among the tools stored in the tool storage section to a specified machine tool among the plurality of machine tools, the control method comprising the following steps: acquiring tool possession information that specifies identification information of each tool possessed by the tool conveyance system; determining a plurality of tools that are expected to be used in the plurality of machine tools based on a processing schedule for processing workpieces with the plurality of machine tools; determining a non-possessed tool that is not specified in the tool possession information among the plurality of tools that are expected to be used; and displaying identification information of the non-possessed tool in the display section, wherein the control method further comprises the following steps: calculating, based on the processing schedule, a remaining time until a need arises in the tool conveyance system for the non-possessed tool; and displaying the remaining time related to the non-possessed tool in the display section. ​ wherein ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ calculating, based on the machining schedule, for the non-held tool, a remaining time from the present until becoming necessary in the tool transport system; and displaying the remaining time relating to the non-held tool on the display section.

6. A computer program product including a control program of a tool transport system, the tool transport system having: a display section; a plurality of machine tools; a tool storage section for storing a plurality of tools; a transport device for transporting a specified tool among the tools stored in the tool storage section to a specified machine tool among the plurality of machine tools; and a control section for controlling the tool transport system, the control program being for causing the control section to perform the steps of: acquiring held tool information that specifies identification information of each tool held by the tool transport system; determining, based on a machining schedule for machining a workpiece with the plurality of machine tools, a plurality of tools that are expected to be used in the plurality of machine tools; determining a non-held tool among the plurality of tools that are expected to be used, which is not specified in the held tool information; and displaying the identification information of the non-held tool on the display section, wherein the control program is for causing the control section to further perform the steps of: calculating, based on the machining schedule, for the non-held tool, a remaining time from the present until becoming necessary in the tool transport system; and displaying the remaining time relating to the non-held tool on the display section.

7. A tool transport system including: a display section; a plurality of machine tools; a tool storage section for storing a plurality of tools; a transport device for transporting a specified tool among the tools stored in the tool storage section to a specified machine tool among the plurality of machine tools; and a control section for controlling the tool transport system, the control section being configured to perform the steps of: acquiring held tool information that specifies identification information of each tool held by the tool transport system; determining, based on a machining schedule for machining a workpiece with the plurality of machine tools, a plurality of tools that are expected to be used in the plurality of machine tools; determining a non-held tool among the plurality of tools that are expected to be used, which is not specified in the held tool information; and displaying the identification information of the non-held tool on the display section, wherein the control section is further configured to perform the steps of: calculating, based on the machining schedule, for the non-held tool, a remaining time from the present until becoming necessary in the tool transport system; and displaying the remaining time relating to the non-held tool on the display section.

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