Machine tool system

Abstract

A workpiece remaining in a machining device or the like is easily delivered to an unloading section when a usage state of a tool reaches a prescribed value. A machine tool system (100) includes a processing section (20) including a machining device (23) that performs machining on a workpiece (W) by a tool (T), a loading section (10) that places the workpiece (W) to be processed by the processing section (20), an unloading section (30) that places the workpiece (W) processed by the processing section (20), a loading device (40) that carries the workpiece (W) between the processing section (20), the loading section (10), and the unloading section (30), and a control section (50) that controls the processing section (20) and the loading device (30). The control section (50) controls to stop carrying of the workpiece (W) from the loading section (10) to the processing section (20) by the loading device (40) when the usage state of the tool (T) reaches the prescribed value, and to deliver the workpiece (W) to the unloading section (30) by the loading device (40) after performing machining on the workpiece (W) remaining in the processing section (20) by the machining device (23).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to machine tool systems. Background Technology

[0002] Machining apparatuses such as lathes include tools for machining workpieces. Since the tip of these tools (cutting tools) wears down during workpiece machining, they need to be replaced when the number of machining operations or the total machining time (usage state) reaches a predetermined value (i.e., when the tool reaches its lifespan). For example, a technique has been proposed that allows the machining apparatus to be completed using the tool even when the tool's usage reaches the aforementioned predetermined value during workpiece machining (see Patent Document 1 below).

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Publication No. 06-028838 Summary of the Invention

[0006] A loading device is used in the process of moving workpieces into and out of the machining unit. The loading device transports unprocessed workpieces from the loading unit to the machining unit or other workpiece processing units, and delivers processed or finished workpieces from each unit to the unloading unit. In this way, a machine tool system is formed by the loading device, the machining unit, and other devices. In this machine tool system, as shown in Patent Document 1, when a tool reaches the end of its lifespan, if only the workpiece being processed during the machining process is completed using the machining unit, the workpiece will remain in the machining unit or the like. After tool replacement, trial machining of the workpiece is usually performed, requiring the unused workpiece in the machining unit or the like to be delivered to the unloading unit beforehand. In this case, the operator manually checks the unused workpiece in the machining unit or the like and delivers all workpieces to the unloading unit according to the number of workpieces, thus extending the remaining lifespan of the tool by a predetermined amount, which becomes a time-consuming operation for the operator.

[0007] The purpose of this invention is to provide a machine tool system that, when the tool's usage condition reaches a predetermined value, can easily deliver workpieces remaining in the processing device or the like to the transport section.

[0008] The machine tool system of the present invention includes: a processing unit comprising a processing apparatus for machining a workpiece using a tool; a loading unit for holding a workpiece to be processed by the processing unit; a loading unit for holding a workpiece after it has been processed by the processing unit; a loading device for transporting a workpiece between the processing unit, the loading unit, and the loading unit; and a control unit for controlling the processing unit and the loading device. The control unit controls the loading of the workpiece from the loading unit to the processing unit to stop when the tool's operating state reaches a predetermined value, and after machining the workpiece remaining in the processing unit by the processing apparatus, delivers the workpiece to the loading unit using the loading device.

[0009] Invention Effects

[0010] According to the machine tool system described above, when the tool's usage condition reaches a predetermined value, the machining unit continues to process the remaining workpieces in the processing unit without loading new workpieces. The processed workpieces are then delivered to the delivery unit via a loading device. Therefore, the operator does not need to check the number of remaining workpieces in the processing unit or manually set the remaining tool life, reducing the operator's workload. Furthermore, since the remaining workpieces in the processing unit are delivered when the tool's usage condition reaches the predetermined value, trial processing of the workpieces can be performed quickly after tool replacement, allowing the machine tool system to be operational as soon as possible.

[0011] Alternatively, in the machine tool system described above, the specified value can be set according to the total number of times the tool processes the workpiece, or the total processing time of the tool on the workpiece, corresponding to the tool's lifespan. With this configuration, workpieces remaining in the processing unit can be reliably delivered at the tool changeover time. Alternatively, in the machine tool system described above, when the tool's usage status reaches a specified value, the control unit determines whether any workpiece remains in the processing unit by acquiring information related to the workpiece being processed by the processing unit. With this configuration, it is possible to determine with high precision whether any workpiece remains in the processing unit at the tool changeover time.

[0012] Alternatively, in the machine tool system described above, the processing unit, in addition to the machining device, may include at least one of the following: a pre-machining cleaning device for cleaning the workpiece before it is processed by the machining device; a phase determining device for determining the phase of the workpiece before it is processed by the machining device; a post-machining cleaning device for cleaning the workpiece after it is processed by the machining device; and a measuring device for measuring the dimensions of the workpiece after it is processed by the machining device. With this configuration, workpieces remaining in the processing unit, including the machining device, can be reliably delivered to the delivery unit at the tool change time. Alternatively, in the machine tool system described above, the control unit may include: a notification unit for notifying when the tool's usage status reaches a predetermined value; and an input unit for initiating the processing of the workpiece by the processing unit and the delivery of the workpiece by the loading device. With this configuration, based on the notification from the notification unit, the operator instructs the start of processing and delivery of the workpiece remaining in the processing unit via the input unit, thus allowing the operator to set the start time for processing and delivery of the workpiece remaining in the processing unit to any desired time.

[0013] Alternatively, in the machine tool system described above, the control unit may instruct the notification unit to notify that all remaining workpieces in the processing section have been delivered to the transport section. With this configuration, the operator can easily ascertain that all remaining workpieces in the processing section have been moved to the transport section. Alternatively, in the machine tool system described above, the control unit may instruct the notification unit to notify that a tool needs to be replaced. With this configuration, the operator can easily identify whether a tool needs to be replaced by checking the notification content from the notification unit. Attached Figure Description

[0014] Figure 1 This is a front view illustrating an example of a machine tool system according to an embodiment.

[0015] Figure 2 This is a top view illustrating an example of a machine tool system according to an embodiment.

[0016] Figure 3 This diagram shows the state in which the workpiece is held in the loading section by the loading device.

[0017] Figure 4 This is a diagram showing the state in which the workpiece is handed over to the spindle of the machining device via the loading device.

[0018] Figure 5 This diagram shows the state in which a workpiece is placed in the transport section by a loading device.

[0019] Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of a machine tool system.

[0020] Figure 7 This is a diagram showing the state of workpieces remaining in the processing section.

[0021] Figure 8 This diagram shows the state after the processing unit performs the workpiece processing and the workpiece is delivered to the transport unit.

[0022] Figure 9 This is a flowchart illustrating another example of the operation of a machine tool system. Detailed Implementation

[0023] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the content described below. Furthermore, in the drawings, for the purpose of illustrating the embodiments, some parts are sometimes enlarged or emphasized, and the scale is appropriately changed; the shape, size, etc., differ from the actual product. In each drawing, the directions in the figures are shown using an XYZ coordinate system. In this XYZ coordinate system, a plane parallel to the horizontal plane is designated as the XY plane. One direction of this XY plane is denoted as the X direction, and the direction orthogonal to the X direction is denoted as the Y direction. Additionally, the direction perpendicular to the XY plane is denoted as the Z direction. Regarding the X, Y, and Z directions, the direction indicated by the arrow in the figure is the + direction, and the direction opposite to the direction indicated by the arrow is the - direction, respectively.

[0024] Figure 1 This is a front view showing an example of the machine tool system 100 of this embodiment. Figure 2 This is a top view showing an example of the machine tool system 100 according to this embodiment. Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the machine tool system 100 includes an infeed section 10, a processing section 20, an outfeed section 30, a loading device 40, and a control section 50. The infeed section 10 holds the workpiece W processed by the processing section 20. The infeed section 10 has a mounting table 11 for holding the workpiece W. The unprocessed workpiece W is placed on the mounting table 11.

[0025] The loading table 11 holds the workpiece W in a manner that allows the loading device 40 to hold the unprocessed workpiece W. Furthermore, the loading section 10 may, for example, be configured to hold multiple unprocessed workpieces W in a symmetrical arrangement along the rotational direction of a rotating member, and then use this rotating member to sequentially position the unprocessed workpieces W into the holding positions of the loading device 40. The loading section 10 may also be configured to include a conveyor (conveyor belt) extending in the Y direction, which sequentially feeds the unprocessed workpieces W into the loading table 11 from the outside of the loading section 10.

[0026] The processing unit 20 performs various processing on the workpiece W. In this embodiment, the processing unit 20 includes a pre-processing cleaning device 21, a phase determining device 22, a processing device 23, a post-processing cleaning device 24, and a measuring device 25. The pre-processing cleaning device 21 cleans the workpiece W before processing by the processing device 23. The pre-processing cleaning device 21 includes a workpiece receiving section 21a and a cleaning fluid discharge section 21b. The workpiece receiving section 21a holds and receives the workpiece W before processing. The workpiece receiving section 21a is open at the top, allowing for the transfer of the workpiece W before and after cleaning between itself and the loading device 40.

[0027] The cleaning fluid discharge section 21b cleans the workpiece W by discharging cleaning fluid from the cleaning fluid discharge section 21b into the workpiece W housed in the workpiece receiving section 21a. Furthermore, the pre-processing cleaning device 21 is not limited to the above-described manner. For example, the pre-processing cleaning device 21 may be configured to perform ultrasonic cleaning of the workpiece W, or it may be configured to perform cleaning by spraying gas onto the workpiece W. Moreover, whether or not the pre-processing cleaning device 21 is provided in the processing section 20 is arbitrary. That is, the pre-processing cleaning device 21 may not be provided in the processing section 20.

[0028] The phase determining device 22 determines the phase of the workpiece W before processing by the processing device 23. For example, when the workpiece W has been previously processed, sometimes during processing by the processing device 23, it is necessary to align the phase (position) of the workpiece W to match the previous processing position. In this case, the phase determining device 22 determines the phase of the workpiece W by changing the position of the workpiece W when it is held using the loading device 40.

[0029] The phase determining device 22 includes a holding table 22a and a rotary table 22b. The holding table 22a is equipped with a drive mechanism (not shown) that rotates the rotary table 22b. The rotary table 22b can rotate about the Z-axis while the workpiece W to be processed is mounted on it. The phase of the workpiece W is determined by rotating the workpiece W about the Z-axis using the rotary table 22b. At this time, the phase determining device 22 can also use a sensor capable of detecting a part of the workpiece W to determine the phase of the workpiece W by detecting a part of the workpiece W using the sensor while the rotary table 22b is rotating. The workpiece W, after its phase is determined by the rotary table 22b, is held by the loading device 40. The loading device 40 transports the phase-determined workpiece W to the subsequent processing device 23. Furthermore, whether the phase determining device 22 is provided in the processing unit 20 is arbitrary. That is, the phase determining device 22 may not be provided in the processing unit 20.

[0030] The machining apparatus 23 processes the workpiece W using a tool T. The machining apparatus 23 is, for example, a lathe, which performs turning operations on the workpiece W. In this embodiment, the machining apparatus 23 uses a parallel two-axis lathe. The machining apparatus 23 has two spindles 13 and 14 and two turrets (rotating parts) 15 and 16. The spindles 13 and 14 extend in the Y direction and are arranged in the X direction. The spindles 13 and 14 are supported by bearings (not shown) and are able to rotate about an axis parallel to the Y direction, and are rotated by a rotation drive (not shown). Grippers 13a and 14a are provided at the -Y side ends of the spindles 13 and 14, respectively. Multiple grippers 13a and 14a are arranged at predetermined intervals along the rotation direction of the spindles 13 and 14. The grippers 13a and 14a can move radially along the spindles 13 and 14 via a chuck drive (not shown), thereby holding the workpiece W. By moving the gripping claws 13a and 14a, the workpiece W can be transferred between them and the loading device 40.

[0031] Turrets 15 and 16 are offset from the axes of spindles 13 and 14. Turret 15 is located on the -X side of spindle 13, and turret 16 is located on the +X side of spindle 14. Turrets 15 and 16 are each capable of rotating about an axis parallel to the Y direction via a rotary drive unit (not shown). Turrets 15 and 16 are, for example, polygonal in shape. Multiple holding portions for holding tools (cutting tools) T are provided on each planar portion of the circumference of turrets 15 and 16. All or part of these holding portions hold the tool T. By rotating turrets 15 and 16, the desired tool T for machining workpiece W is selected. The tool T can be changed relative to each holding portion. Besides turning tools such as lathe tools used for cutting workpiece W, rotary tools such as drills or end mills can also be used as tools T. Furthermore, turrets 15 and 16 are capable of moving in both the X and Y directions via a drive unit (not shown).

[0032] The machining apparatus 23 includes a flipping device 19. The flipping device 19, for example, flips the orientation of the workpiece W transported from spindle 13 to spindle 14 in the Y direction. The flipping device 19 includes chucks 17 and 18 capable of holding the workpiece W. The chucks 17 and 18 are arranged in the X direction on the +Y side (above) of the spindles 13 and 14. Holding jaws 17a and 18a are respectively provided at the -Y side ends of the chucks 17 and 18. The workpiece W can be held by closing the holding jaws 17a and 18a.

[0033] The flipping device 19 includes a moving mechanism (not shown) that moves one or both of the chucks 17 and 18 from the illustrated state to a facing state. By using this moving mechanism to face the chucks 17 and 18, and then returning the workpiece W held by the chuck 17 to the chuck 18, the workpiece W can be flipped in the Y-direction orientation. The loading device 40 can deliver the workpiece W to the chucks 17 and 18 respectively. Furthermore, whether the processing device 23 includes the flipping device 19 is optional. That is, the processing device 23 may also be without the flipping device 19.

[0034] The post-processing cleaning apparatus 24 cleans the workpiece W processed by the processing apparatus 23. The post-processing cleaning apparatus 24 has a workpiece receiving section 24a and a cleaning fluid discharge section 24b. The workpiece receiving section 24a holds and accommodates the processed workpiece W. The workpiece receiving section 24a is open at the top, allowing for the exchange of workpieces W before and after cleaning between it and the loading device 40. The cleaning fluid discharge section 24b discharges cleaning fluid into the workpiece W contained in the workpiece receiving section 24a, removing chips, processing oil, etc., adhering to the workpiece W. Furthermore, the post-processing cleaning apparatus 24 is not limited to the above-described manner. The pre-processing cleaning apparatus 21 may, for example, be configured to remove chips, etc., from the workpiece W by ultrasonic cleaning, or it may be configured to remove chips, etc., by spraying gas onto the workpiece W. Furthermore, whether the post-processing cleaning apparatus 24 is provided in the processing section 20 is arbitrary. That is, the post-processing cleaning apparatus 24 may not be in the processing section 20.

[0035] The measuring device 25 measures the processed workpiece W, which has been cleaned by the post-processing cleaning device 24. The measuring device 25 includes a stage 25a and a sensor 25b. The stage 25a holds the processed workpiece W, which is the object of measurement. The stage 25a is configured to allow for the transfer of the workpiece W between itself and the loading device 40. The sensor 25b measures the dimensions, etc., of the workpiece W placed on the stage 25a. The measuring device 25 determines the three-dimensional shape of the workpiece W, for example, by irradiating detection light from the sensor 25b onto the workpiece W and acquiring its reflected light. Furthermore, whether the measuring device 25 is installed in the processing unit 20 is arbitrary. That is, the measuring device 25 may not be installed in the processing unit 20.

[0036] The transfer section 30 holds the workpiece W processed by the processing section 20. The transfer section 30 also holds the machined workpiece W whose dimensions have been measured by the measuring device 25. The transfer section 30 has a mounting table 31 for holding the workpiece W. The mounting table 31 is configured to accept the machined workpiece W transported by the loading device 40. Alternatively, the transfer section 30 may be configured such that a conveyor (conveyor belt) extending in the Y direction is provided, and the workpiece W placed on the mounting table 31 is sequentially transported to the outside of the mounting table 31 via the conveyor.

[0037] The loading device 40 transports workpiece W between the infeed section 10, the processing section 20, and the outfeed section 30. After transporting the workpiece from the infeed section 10 to the pre-processing cleaning device 21 in the processing section 20, the loading device 40 transports the workpiece W from the pre-processing cleaning device 21 to the phase determining device 22 in the processing section 20. Next, after transporting the workpiece W from the phase determining device 22 to the spindle 13 of the processing device 23, the loading device 40 transports the workpiece W from the spindle 13 to the chuck 17 of the flipping device 19 and from the chuck 18 to the spindle 14. Next, after transporting the workpiece W from the spindle 14 to the post-processing cleaning device 24 and from the post-processing cleaning device 24 to the measuring device 25, the loading device 40 transports the workpiece W from the measuring device 25 to the outfeed section 30.

[0038] The loading device 40 includes a loading head 41 and a loading drive unit 42. The loading head 41 has a loading chuck 43. The loading chuck 43 can hold the workpiece W by opening and closing a plurality of gripping jaws 43a. As an example, the loading head 41 is configured to change the loading chuck 43 to, for example, a posture holding the workpiece W and facing the -Z direction or a posture facing the +Y direction (so that the workpiece W faces the spindles 13, 14) by means of a so-called rotary joint. Furthermore, the loading head 41 is not limited to having a rotary joint and can be applied in any other manner.

[0039] The loading drive unit 42 includes an X drive unit 44, a Y drive unit 45, and a Z drive unit 46. The X drive unit 44 includes an X moving body 44a and a guide rail 44b. The X moving body 44a is configured to move in the X direction along the guide rail 44b via a drive source (not shown). The Y drive unit 45 is formed on the X moving body 44a. The Y drive unit 45 includes a Y moving body 45a. The Y moving body 45a is configured to move in the Y direction along a guide portion (not shown) via a drive source (not shown). The Z drive unit 46 is formed on the Y moving body 45a. The Z drive unit 46 includes a Z moving body 46a. The Z moving body 46a is configured to move in the Z direction along a guide portion (not shown) via a drive source (not shown).

[0040] The loading head 41 is located at the lower part of the Z-moving body 46a. The workpiece W held by the loading chuck 43 of the loading head 41 is transported in the X direction, Z direction, Y direction, or a combination of these directions by being driven by the X drive unit 44, Y drive unit 45 and Z drive unit 46 respectively.

[0041] The control unit 50 uniformly controls the operation of the processing unit 20 and the loading device 40 based on a prescribed processing procedure. Alternatively, multiple control units 50 may be provided, each independently controlling the processing unit 20 and the loading device 40. A communication unit (not shown) is provided within the control unit 50. This communication unit facilitates the exchange of various information, such as the processing status of the workpiece W in the processing unit 20 and the operational status of the loading device 40. Based on the information acquired via the communication unit, the control unit 50 can identify whether workpiece W remains in the processing unit 20 and whether the loading device 40 is currently transporting workpiece W.

[0042] The control unit 50 determines whether the usage status of the tool T used in the processing apparatus 23 has reached a predetermined value. This predetermined value is preset based on the tool T's lifespan, for example, based on the total number of times the tool T processes the workpiece W, or the total processing time of the tool T on the workpiece W. The predetermined value can be obtained from a higher-level control device, or it can be input by the operator through the input unit 51 (described later). When the tool T's usage status reaches the predetermined value, the control unit 50 obtains information from each processing unit 20 related to the processing of the workpiece W by the processing unit 20. This information includes, for example, information about the presence of workpiece W and information that the workpiece W is being processed. Furthermore, the control unit 50 can also notify the notification unit 52 (described later) that the tool T's usage status has reached the predetermined value.

[0043] The control unit 50 determines whether there are any workpieces W remaining in the processing unit 20 based on information obtained from the processing unit 20. If the control unit 50 determines that there are no workpieces W remaining in the processing unit 20, it may also notify the notification unit 52 that, for example, all workpieces W remaining in the processing unit 20 have been delivered to the transfer unit 30 and that the tool T needs to be replaced. Furthermore, if the control unit 50 determines that the tool T's usage status has reached a predetermined value, it stops the loading device 40 from loading workpieces W from the loading unit 10 to the processing unit 20 and performs a workpiece W delivery process. In this embodiment, the delivery process is the process where the loading device 40 delivers (transfers) the workpieces W to the transfer unit 30 after the machining device 23 has processed the workpieces W remaining in the processing unit 20. After this delivery process is performed, all workpieces W remaining in the processing unit 20 are delivered to the transfer unit 30, leaving the processing unit 20 empty. By making the processing unit 20 empty, the machine tool system 100 can be smoothly restarted after the tool T is replaced.

[0044] The control unit 50 includes an input unit 51 and a notification unit 52. The input unit 51 can be, for example, an operation panel, touch panel, keyboard, mouse, trackball, etc. The input unit 51 can input information for performing the delivery processing of the workpiece W when the tool T's usage state reaches a predetermined value. The input unit 51 detects input from the operator and sends the input information to the control unit 50. Furthermore, the input unit 51 can also serve as the operation panel of the machine tool system 100. The operation panel allows the operator to input processing conditions such as the machining program of the machining device 23 for the workpiece W, the material of the workpiece W, and the type of tool T used. Furthermore, the processing conditions can also be sent from a higher-level control device and corrected or adjusted by the operator via the operation panel.

[0045] The notification unit 52 notifies various information under the control of the control unit 50. The notification unit 52 may be, for example, a display device such as a monitor or touch panel, a voice output device such as a speaker or alarm, or a mobile terminal such as a computer or smartphone. As described above, the notification unit 52 notifies when the usage status of the tool T has reached a predetermined value. Additionally, the notification unit 52 notifies when all workpieces W remaining in the processing unit 20 have been delivered to the transfer unit 30. The notification unit 52 can also notify when the tool T needs to be replaced. Through the notifications from the notification unit 52, the operator can identify when the usage status of the tool T has reached a predetermined value, when workpieces W remain in the processing unit 20, when all workpieces W remaining in the processing unit 20 have been delivered to the transfer unit 30, and when the tool T needs to be replaced.

[0046] Next, the operation of the machine tool system 100 configured as described above will be explained. Figures 3 to 5 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the operation of the machine tool system 100. Figure 3 This diagram shows the state in which the workpiece W is held by the loading device 40 in the loading section 10. The operation of the machine tool system 100 is based on the control of the control unit 50. First, the loading device 40 positions the loading head 41 above (on the +Z side) the loading table 11 of the loading section 10, and lowers the Z-moving body 46a with the loading chuck 43 facing downwards. Then, the workpiece W, which is pre-positioned in the loading section 10, is held by the gripping jaws 43a of the loading head 41. Then, the loading head 41 is raised by the Z-drive unit 46.

[0047] Then, the loading head 41 is moved in the +X direction, positioning the workpiece W above the pre-processing cleaning device 21. Next, the Z-moving body 46a is lowered, causing the workpiece receiving section 21a of the pre-processing cleaning device 21 to receive the workpiece W. After placing the workpiece W in the workpiece receiving section 21a, the loading head 41 is raised. The pre-processing cleaning device 21 discharges cleaning fluid from the cleaning fluid discharge section 21b, cleaning the workpiece W in the workpiece receiving section 21a. After cleaning the workpiece W, the loading head 41 is lowered, holding the cleaned workpiece W. The loading head 41, holding the workpiece W, moves in the +X direction after rising, positioning the workpiece W above the phase determining device 22.

[0048] Then, by lowering the loading head 41, the workpiece W is placed on the rotary table 22b of the phase determining device 22. After placing the workpiece W on the rotary table 22b, the loading head 41 rises. The phase determining device 22 rotates the rotary table 22b to determine the phase of the workpiece W. After determining the phase of the workpiece W, the loading head 41 lowers, rises after holding the workpiece W in the determined phase, and moves in the +X direction to position the workpiece W above the spindle 13. Then, the loading head 41 lowers to position the workpiece W on the -Y side of the spindle 13. Then, the loading head 41 changes the orientation of the workpiece W from downward to towards the +Y direction. Then, by moving in the +Y direction, the loading head 41 is gripped by the gripping jaw 13a of the spindle 13, and the workpiece W is transferred from the loading head 41 to the spindle 13.

[0049] Figure 4 This diagram shows the state in which the workpiece W is transferred to the spindle 13 of the machining apparatus 23 via the loading device 40. After the workpiece W is held on the spindle 13, the loading head 41 moves in the -Y direction and rises, returning to above the spindle 13. In the machining apparatus 23, the turret 15 rotates, selecting the tool T for machining the workpiece W. The machining apparatus 23 rotates the spindle 13 to rotate the workpiece W about an axis parallel to the Y direction, while moving the tool T (turret 15) in both the X and Y directions, thereby performing turning machining on the workpiece W. Furthermore, during the machining of the workpiece W by the machining apparatus 23, the loading device 40 can also transport new unprocessed workpieces W from the loading section 10 to the pre-machining cleaning device 21.

[0050] After machining of workpiece W in machining apparatus 23, loading head 41 receives workpiece W from spindle 13 and hands it over to chuck 17 of tilting device 19. Tilting device 19 tilts workpiece W by handing it over to chuck 18 while held by chuck 17. Loading head 41 receives workpiece W from chuck 18 and hands it over to spindle 14 of machining apparatus 23. In machining apparatus 23, turret 16 rotates to select tool T for machining workpiece W. Machining apparatus 23 rotates spindle 14 to rotate workpiece W about an axis parallel to the Y direction while moving tool T (turret 16) in the X and Y directions, thereby performing turning relative to workpiece W.

[0051] Then, after receiving the workpiece W from the spindle 14, the loading head 41 rises and moves in the +X direction, positioning the workpiece W above the post-processing cleaning device 24. The loading head 41 then descends, housing the processed workpiece W in the workpiece receiving section 24a of the post-processing cleaning device 24. After the workpiece receiving section 24a houses the workpiece W, the loading head 41 rises. The post-processing cleaning device 24 discharges cleaning fluid from the cleaning fluid discharge section 21b to the workpiece W, cleaning the processed workpiece W. After cleaning the workpiece W, the loading head 41 descends, holding the cleaned workpiece W. Then, after rising, the loading head 41 moves in the +X direction, positioning the workpiece W above the measuring device 25. The loading head 41 then descends, placing the workpiece W on the mounting stage 25a of the measuring device 25. After placing the workpiece W on the mounting stage 25a, the loading head 41 rises. The measuring device 25 measures the workpiece W placed on the mounting stage 25a via the sensor 25b.

[0052] Figure 5 This diagram shows the state in which the workpiece W is placed on the transfer section 30 by the loading device 40. After the measuring device 25 measures the workpiece W, the loading head 41 descends and holds the measured workpiece W. Then, after rising, the loading head 41 moves in the +X direction, positioning the workpiece W above the transfer section 30. Then, the loading head 41 descends, thereby... Figure 5 As shown, the measured workpiece W is placed on the loading table 31 of the transfer section 30. Through this series of actions, the workpiece W of the transfer section 10 is transferred into the processing section 20, and after being processed by the processing section 20, it is delivered to the transfer section 30.

[0053] Furthermore, in the aforementioned series of operations, the loading device 40 moves multiple workpieces W from the loading section 10 into the processing section 20, sequentially transports the workpieces W in the processing section 20, and delivers them to the unloading section 30. That is, in the processing section 20, multiple workpieces W are processed by a certain device, and the loading device 40 appropriately transports the workpieces W. During the aforementioned operations, the tool T used in the processing device 23 wears down as the cutting edge of the tool W is processed, and therefore needs to be replaced when the number of times the workpiece W is processed or the total processing time (usage state) of the workpiece W reaches a predetermined value (i.e., when the tool life is reached). Furthermore, the predetermined value that serves as an indicator for replacing the tool T is, for example, set to the number of times the workpiece W can be processed. Moreover, it is set generously so that multiple processing operations of the workpiece W can be performed even when the tool T reaches the predetermined value. When the tool T reaches the predetermined value, the tool life is extended by changing this predetermined value. The change of the predetermined value is performed by adding the pre-set predetermined value to a value indicating the extent to which the remaining workpieces in the processing section 20 can be processed. In addition, it stores pre-set values ​​to indicate when the tool has reached the end of its lifespan, so that it can be replaced by the operator after the workpiece W is delivered.

[0054] Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of machine tool system 100. For example... Figure 6 As shown, the control unit 50 determines whether the usage status of the tool T used in the processing apparatus 23 has reached a predetermined value (step S01). Based on the information sent from the processing apparatus 23, the control unit 50 compares the total number of processing times or processing time of the tool T with a preset predetermined value for the tool T to determine whether the usage status of the tool T has reached the predetermined value. If the control unit 50 determines that the usage status of the tool T has not reached the predetermined value (no in step S01), the control unit 50 repeats the process of step S01.

[0055] Then, when the control unit 50 determines that the usage state of tool T has reached a predetermined value (as in step S01), it determines whether workpiece W remains in the processing unit 20 (step S02). The control unit 50 obtains information related to the processing of workpiece W from each device of the processing unit 20 (e.g., processing device 23), and determines whether workpiece W remains in the processing unit 20 based on the obtained information (step S02). The control unit 50 appropriately obtains information related to workpiece W being processed or workpiece W being processed from each device of the processing unit 20, and determines whether workpiece W remains in the processing unit 20 based on this information. In this case, the control unit 50, based on the information obtained from the loading device 40, includes the situation where workpiece W is being transported using the loading device 40 as a condition for determining whether workpiece W remains in the processing unit 20.

[0056] Figure 7This diagram shows the state in which workpiece W remains in the processing unit 20. (Example) Figure 7 As shown, when the tool T reaches a predetermined usage value, at least one of the following devices in the processing unit 20 may contain workpiece W: the pre-processing cleaning device 21 (workpiece W1), the phase determining device 22 (workpiece W2), the spindle 13 (workpiece W3) of the processing device 23, the chuck 17 (workpiece W4), the chuck 18 (workpiece W5), the spindle 14 (workpiece W6), the post-processing cleaning device 24 (workpiece W7), and the measuring device 25 (workpiece W8). Additionally, although not shown, workpiece W may also remain in the loading device 40. The control unit 50 obtains information from each device in the processing unit 20 related to the processing of workpieces W1 to W8, or their pre-processing or post-processing holding, and further obtains information about the presence of workpiece W in the loading device 40. Based on the obtained information, it determines in step S02 whether workpiece W remains.

[0057] Then, as Figure 6 As shown, if the control unit 50 determines that workpiece W remains in the processing unit 20 (Yes in step S02), it stops the loading device 40 from the transfer unit 10 to the processing unit 20 for workpiece W (Step S03). Furthermore, if the control unit 50 determines that no workpiece W remains in the processing unit 20 (No in step S02), it terminates the series of processes. In step S03, the control unit 50 stops the loading device 40 from transferring workpiece W to prevent new unprocessed workpiece W from being transferred from the transfer unit 10 to the processing unit 20.

[0058] Then, the control unit 50 performs the delivery process for workpiece W. Furthermore, in step S02, if it is determined that workpiece W remains in the processing unit 20, the control unit 50 determines the number of workpiece W remaining in the processing unit 20 and obtains information related to the state of each remaining workpiece W in which device of the processing unit 20 it is located. The control unit 50 causes the machining device 23 to perform machining on the remaining workpiece W in the processing unit 20 (step S04). Step S04 can be executed automatically by the control unit 50 based on preset instructions, or it can be executed by manual input instructions from the operator. By performing this delivery process, the lifespan of the tool T can be extended to allow subsequent steps to be performed, preventing the machining device 23 from stopping machining of the workpiece W. The degree of extension of the tool T's lifespan can be a preset value or a value manually set by the operator.

[0059] The control unit 50 acquires the status of the remaining workpiece W and continues the processing performed in the processing unit 20 from the current status. For example, Figure 7Workpiece W1 continues to be processed by the pre-processing cleaning device 21. After cleaning, workpiece W1 is sent to the subsequent phase determining device 22 for further processing. Similarly, workpiece W2, after its phase is determined by the phase determining device 22, is sent to the spindle 13 of the subsequent machining device 23 for further processing. After machining by tool T, workpiece W3 is sent from spindle 13 to the chuck 17 of the flipping device 19 for further processing. Workpiece W4 is transferred from chuck 17 to chuck 18 for further processing. Workpiece W5 is sent from chuck 18 to spindle 14 for further processing. After machining by tool T, workpiece W6 is sent from spindle 14 to the subsequent post-processing cleaning device 24 for further processing. After cleaning by the post-processing cleaning device 24, workpiece W7 is sent to the subsequent measuring device 25 for further processing. After measurement by the measuring device 25, workpiece W8 is delivered from processing unit 20 to transport unit 30.

[0060] Figure 8 This diagram shows the state after the processing unit 20 processes the workpiece W, and then delivers the workpiece W to the transport unit 30. In step S04 described above, after the control unit 50 continues processing the workpiece W remaining in the processing unit 20, it delivers the workpiece W to the transport unit 30 via the loading device 40 (step S05). The workpiece W remaining in the processing unit 20, after completing a series of processes in the processing unit 20, including processing by the processing device 23, is delivered to the transport unit 30 by the loading device 40. Figure 8 As shown, workpieces W1, W2, W3, W4, W5, W6, W7, and W8 undergo further processing in the processing unit 20, and after being measured by the measuring device 25, they are delivered to the transfer unit 30 by the loading device 40. Furthermore, as described above, the specified values ​​related to the usage state of the tool T are set to allow for the processing of multiple workpieces W. Therefore, even when the usage state of the tool T reaches the specified values, the tool T can still process the remaining workpieces W in the processing unit 20.

[0061] Then, as Figure 6 As shown, the control unit 50 determines whether to deliver all workpieces W to the transfer unit 30 (step S06). The control unit 50 determines whether to deliver all remaining workpieces W in the processing unit 20 to the transfer unit 30. If the control unit 50 determines that all remaining workpieces W in the processing unit 20 should be delivered to the transfer unit 30 (yes in step S06), the series of processes ends. Otherwise, if the control unit 50 determines that not all workpieces W have been delivered to the transfer unit 30 (no in step S06), the processing after step S04 is repeated.

[0062] Figure 9 This is a flowchart illustrating another example of the operation of machine tool system 100. Figure 9In the example shown, the processing of steps S01 to S06 is the same as the processing described above, so the explanation is omitted. After step S03, the control unit 50 notifies the notification unit 52 (see...). Figure 1 The notification unit 52 notifies the operator that the tool T has reached the specified value based on the instructions from the control unit 50, either by displaying the information on the screen or by speaking through a speaker.

[0063] Then, the operator identifies the tool T as needing replacement based on the notification from notification unit 52. The operator inputs instructions to input unit 51 (see) for instructing processing unit 20 to process workpiece W and loading device 40 to deliver workpiece W. Figure 1 (Step S12). In this way, the delivery of the remaining workpieces W in the processing unit 20 is performed by means of the operator's input instructions, thereby enabling the delivery of workpieces W at the time desired by the operator. Then, the control unit 50 accepts the instructions input by the operator through the input unit 51, and performs the processing of the remaining workpieces W in the processing unit 20 by the processing device 23 (step S04) and the delivery of the workpieces W from the loading device 40 to the transfer unit 30 as described above (step S05), until all the remaining workpieces W in the processing unit 20 are delivered (step S06).

[0064] In step S06, if the control unit 50 determines that all workpieces W should be delivered to the transfer unit 30 (as indicated in step S06), the notification unit 52 notifies that all remaining workpieces W in the processing unit 20 should be delivered to the transfer unit 30 (step S13). Based on the instruction from the control unit 50, the notification unit 52 notifies the operator, either by displaying on the screen or by speaking through a speaker, that all workpieces W have been delivered to the transfer unit 30. Then, the control unit 50 notifies the notification unit 52 that tool T needs to be replaced (step S14). Based on the instruction from the control unit 50, the notification unit 52 notifies the operator, either by displaying on the screen or by speaking through a speaker, that tool T needs to be replaced. The operator who recognizes this notification can then begin the tool T replacement operation. With step S14 completed, the series of processes ends.

[0065] As shown above, according to the machine tool system 100 of this embodiment, when the tool T reaches a predetermined usage value, no new workpiece W is loaded. Instead, the machining device 23 continues to process the workpiece W remaining in the processing unit 20, and the processed workpiece W is then delivered to the transfer unit 30 via the loading device 40. Therefore, the operator does not need to manually set the remaining lifespan of the tool T, reducing the operator's burden. In addition, since the workpiece W remaining in the processing unit 20 is delivered when the tool T reaches a predetermined usage value, trial processing of the workpiece W can be performed quickly after changing the tool T, enabling the machine tool system 100 to be operational as soon as possible.

[0066] The embodiments of the present invention have been described above, but the technical scope of the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments. Those skilled in the art will understand that various modifications or improvements can be made to the above embodiments. Furthermore, these modified or improved methods are also included within the technical scope of the present invention. Sometimes, one or more elements described in the above embodiments are omitted. Furthermore, the elements described in the above embodiments can be appropriately combined. Furthermore, the execution order of each process shown in this embodiment can be implemented in any order, as long as the subsequent process does not use the result of the previous process. Furthermore, although "firstly," "next," and "then" are used to describe the actions in the above embodiments for ease of explanation, they are not necessarily implemented in that order. Furthermore, to the extent permitted by law, the disclosures of Japanese Patent Application No. 2021-156755 and all documents cited in the above embodiments are incorporated into this specification.

[0067] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, an example is given using a single loading device 40 with one loading head 41, but this method is not limited to it. For example, there may be two or more loading devices 40 that operate independently. Alternatively, a single loading device 40 may have multiple loading heads 41.

[0068] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0069] T tools

[0070] Workpieces W, W1, W2, W3, W4, W5, W6, W7, W8

[0071] 10Moving in department

[0072] 13 and 14 spindles

[0073] 15 and 16 turrets

[0074] 19. Tilting device

[0075] 20 Processing Department

[0076] 21 Pre-processing cleaning device

[0077] 22 phase determining devices

[0078] 23 Processing Equipment

[0079] 24 Post-processing cleaning device

[0080] 25 Measuring devices

[0081] 30Moving out department

[0082] 40 Loading Device

[0083] 50 Control Department

[0084] 51 Input Section

[0085] 52 News Department

[0086] 100 machine tool system.

Claims

1. A machine tool system comprising: The processing section includes processing equipment that uses tools to process workpieces; The loading section holds the workpieces to be processed by the processing section. The transfer section holds the workpieces processed by the processing section; A loading device that transports workpieces between the processing section, the loading section, and the unloading section; as well as The control unit controls the processing unit and the loading device. The control unit controls the loading of workpieces from the loading section to the processing section when the tool's usage status reaches a predetermined value. After the processing device performs processing on the workpieces remaining in the processing section and the workpieces before processing, the loading unit delivers the workpieces to the unloading section until there are no workpieces in the processing section.

2. The machine tool system according to claim 1, wherein, The specified value is set according to the total number of times the tool processes the workpiece, or the total processing time of the tool on the workpiece, corresponding to the tool's lifespan.

3. The machine tool system according to claim 1, wherein, When the tool's usage status reaches a predetermined value, the control unit determines whether there are any workpieces remaining in the processing unit by acquiring information related to the workpiece being processed by the processing unit.

4. The machine tool system according to claim 2, wherein, When the tool's usage status reaches a predetermined value, the control unit determines whether there are any workpieces remaining in the processing unit by acquiring information related to the workpiece being processed by the processing unit.

5. The machine tool system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, In addition to the processing apparatus, the processing unit also includes at least one of the following: a pre-processing cleaning apparatus for cleaning a workpiece before it is processed by the processing apparatus; a phase determining apparatus for determining the phase of a workpiece before it is processed by the processing apparatus; a post-processing cleaning apparatus for cleaning a workpiece after it is processed by the processing apparatus; and a measuring apparatus for measuring the dimensions of a workpiece after it is processed by the processing apparatus.

6. The machine tool system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, The control unit includes: The notification department reports when the usage status of the tool has reached a specified value; and The input unit is used to enable the processing of the workpiece by the processing unit and the delivery of the workpiece by the loading device.

7. The machine tool system according to claim 6, wherein, The control unit causes the notification unit to notify the tool that it needs to be replaced.

8. The machine tool system according to claim 6, wherein, The control unit causes the notification unit to report that all workpieces remaining in the processing unit have been delivered to the transfer unit.

9. The machine tool system according to claim 8, wherein, The control unit causes the notification unit to notify the tool that it needs to be replaced.

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