CAM software control method for automobile die numerical control programming software templated programming

Abstract

The invention relates to the technical field of industrial manufacturing machining, in particular to a CAM (computer-aided manufacturing) software control method for template programming of numerical control programming software of an automobile die, which comprises the following steps: building a three-level module architecture controlled by the CAM software, and the three-level module comprises a basic module, an editing module and a personalized module. According to the CAM software control method for template programming of the numerical control programming software of the automobile mold, a standardized process is built in a three-level module, core operation of programming of the automobile mold is solidified into visual guidance, programming personnel can complete basic programming according to module logic without depending on accumulation of a large amount of experience, and the programming efficiency is improved. The fault-tolerant mechanism of the basic module can intercept common errors such as model missing and coordinate naming chaos in advance, a green hand can avoid risks without repeated trial and error, the skill requirement of the industry for the green hand is reduced, new students can rapidly master core operation, the talent training period is effectively shortened, and the pressure of enterprise programming talent shortage is relieved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of industrial manufacturing machining technology, specifically to a CAM software control method for template-based programming of CNC programming software for automotive molds. Background Technology

[0002] With the development of industrial manufacturing and machining technology, CAM software is increasingly used in CNC programming. Traditional CAM software programming requires extensive parameter settings, leading to long training periods for new learners and often involving repetitive machining operations, resulting in low programming efficiency. CAM software control methods emerged primarily to address the increasingly diverse needs in manufacturing and to meet the demands for machining accuracy and efficiency. As automotive molds become more diverse, complex mold processing may require frequent repetitive operations by programmers. Manual input is prone to errors and accidents. CAM software control methods simplify the operation process, ensuring machining safety and efficiency through template-based, high-efficiency, and batch processing, while also avoiding errors caused by human factors, significantly improving programming efficiency. Furthermore, CAM software control methods, through programming control, can provide more practical solutions for these specific processes. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The purpose of this invention is to provide a CAM software control method for template-based programming of CNC programming software for automotive molds. This method offers programmers a diversified, fast, and highly adaptable CAM software control approach, addressing issues such as long training cycles for new learners, varying skill levels among programmers, low programming efficiency in mold processing, and the inability of engineers to implement and promote new processing standards.

[0004] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides the following technical solution: a CAM software control method for template-based programming of CNC programming software for automotive molds, comprising the following steps: S1: Establish a three-level modular architecture for CAM software control, wherein the three-level modules include a basic module, an editing module, and a personalization module; S2: Start the CAM software and load the Pmill_MacroButton.exe file to enter the templated programming interface; S3: Complete the basic process operations of automotive mold programming through the basic module, including inputting the model, coordinate alignment, creating coordinates, creating the blank, datum probing, and coordinate offset; S4: Utilize the editing module to perform batch processing and standardized operations, covering batch calculation, residual mold addition, part allowance replacement, toolpath naming, boundary processing, and collision calculation; S5: Customization is based on personalized modules, supporting the addition, deletion, modification and combination of CAM software commands, strategies and macro programs; S6: After completing all programming operations, perform queue calculations on the toolpaths to generate a CNC program that meets the machining requirements.

[0005] Preferably, in the basic module, the input model step includes a processing data integrity verification mechanism, which verifies the data by determining whether the model folder exists. If the folder does not exist, a prompt message is output and the operation is terminated.

[0006] Preferably, the coordinate creation step of the basic module adopts a standardized naming rule, which forces programmers to define coordinate names according to a unified standard, thereby reducing processing errors caused by coordinate confusion.

[0007] Preferably, the editing module supports auxiliary correction for multi-steel block processing, and generates a probe toolpath with one click through the reference probe, thereby achieving rapid calibration of the processing reference and reducing the impact of workshop placement errors.

[0008] Preferably, the editing module integrates complex machining processes into single-step triggering operations, wherein the residual corner clearing toolpath generation process is simplified from the traditional 5-step manual operation to a 1-step macro program triggering process.

[0009] Preferably, the personalization module supports the integration of multiple CAM software commands, allowing programmers to delete redundant macro programs, customize command combinations and operation processes according to job requirements, and adapt to different programming habits.

[0010] Preferably, all three modules have built-in standardized programming specifications, including programming style, naming rules and structural requirements, to ensure that the programs output by all programmers have consistent readability and modifiability.

[0011] Compared with the prior art, the beneficial effects of the present invention are: 1. The CAM software control method of template-based programming in this automotive mold CNC programming software solidifies the core operations of automotive mold programming into visual guidance through a three-level module-built-in standardized process. Programmers do not need to rely on extensive experience accumulation to complete basic programming according to the module logic. The fault tolerance mechanism of the basic module can intercept common errors such as missing models and disordered coordinate naming in advance. Novices can avoid risks without repeated trial and error, reducing the industry's skill requirements for novices, allowing new trainees to quickly master core operations, effectively shortening the talent training cycle, and alleviating the pressure of enterprise programming talent shortage.

[0012] 2. This automotive mold CNC programming software employs a template-based CAM software control method. By standardizing key parameters through editing modules and utilizing collision calculation functions to proactively identify overcutting risks, it reduces human error in the process. Simultaneously, standardized coordinate and toolpath naming rules prevent machining sequence errors caused by program confusion. Whether machining simple inserts or complex cavities, it maintains stable accuracy, ensuring the mold meets the high-precision requirements of automotive manufacturing and reducing rework costs due to quality issues.

[0013] 3. This automotive mold CNC programming software uses a template-based CAM software control method. Personalized modules allow programmers to customize function combinations, remove redundant macro programs, add exclusive machining strategies, adapt to different programming habits and scenario requirements, and are compatible with mainstream CAM software. There is no need to repeatedly build templates for different software. When enterprises change software, programmers do not need to relearn the operating logic, easily achieving cross-software programming. It can quickly respond to the machining needs of different molds and reduce the cost of technology iteration and scenario switching. Attached Figure Description

[0014] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0015] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the present invention; Figure 2 This is a diagram showing the initial state after the plugin is installed in this invention. Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the menu bar editing bar of the present invention; Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the button editing bar of the present invention; Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating the parameter setting modification process of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0016] The technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0017] Please see Figures 1-5 This invention provides a technical solution: a CAM software control method for CNC programming software of automotive molds using template-based programming, comprising the following steps: S1: Build a three-level modular architecture for CAM software control. The three-level modules include a basic module, an editing module, and a personalization module. S2: Start the CAM software and load the Pmill_MacroButton.exe file to enter the templated programming interface; S3: Complete the basic process operations of automotive mold programming through the basic module, including inputting the model, coordinate alignment, creating coordinates, creating the blank, datum probing, and coordinate offset; S4: Utilize the editing module to perform batch processing and standardized operations, covering batch calculation, residual mold addition, part allowance replacement, toolpath naming, boundary processing, and collision calculation; S5: Customization is based on personalized modules, supporting the addition, deletion, modification and combination of CAM software commands, strategies and macro programs; S6: After completing all programming operations, perform queue calculations on the toolpaths to generate a CNC program that meets the machining requirements.

[0018] The basic module provides a user-friendly interface and standardized basic processes, covering core operations in automotive mold programming, including model input, coordinate alignment, coordinate creation, blank creation, datum probing, and coordinate offset. This module has a built-in data verification mechanism that automatically checks the existence of the model folder when inputting the model to ensure the integrity of the processing data; the coordinate creation process uses mandatory standardized naming to reduce coordinate errors from the source.

[0019] Editing module: Focusing on batch processing and simplification of complex processes, it includes functions such as batch calculation, residual mold addition, part allowance replacement, toolpath naming, boundary handling, and collision calculation. Through macro program integration, complex machining processes are simplified into single-step operations, while supporting automatic datum correction for multi-block machining, significantly improving programming efficiency and accuracy.

[0020] Personalized Modules: Supports function customization and expansion, allowing programmers to add, delete, and modify macro programs within the module, such as drilling, pre-fired surface, and structural groove programs. They can customize command combinations and operation processes according to their own programming habits and operational needs, adapting to the programming requirements of different types of molds.

[0021] In the basic module, the input model step includes a data integrity verification mechanism. This mechanism verifies the data by checking if the model folder exists. If the folder does not exist, a prompt message is output and the operation is terminated.

[0022] The coordinate creation steps of the basic module adopt standardized naming rules, which forces programmers to define coordinate names according to a unified standard, reducing processing errors caused by coordinate confusion.

[0023] The editing module supports auxiliary calibration for multi-steel block processing. It generates the toolpath of the probe with one click through the reference probe, realizing rapid calibration of the processing reference and reducing the impact of workshop placement errors.

[0024] The editing module integrates complex machining processes into single-step triggering operations. The process of generating residual corner clearing toolpaths is simplified from a traditional 5-step manual operation to a 1-step macro program triggering operation.

[0025] The personalized module supports the integration of commands from multiple CAM software, allowing programmers to remove redundant macro programs, customize command combinations and operation processes according to job requirements, and adapt to different programming habits. All three modules have built-in standardized programming standards, including programming style, naming rules and structural requirements, to ensure that the programs output by all programmers have consistent readability and modifiability.

[0026] Preparations before implementation: Hardware requirements: Processor must be ≥ Intel Core i7-10700, memory ≥ 32GB, graphics card must support OpenGL 4.5 or above, and hard disk space ≥ 200GB (for storing model files and macro programs).

[0027] Software: Supports UG NX 12.0 and above, PowerMILL 2019 and above; Operating system requires Windows 10 64-bit Professional or Windows 11 64-bit Professional, and .NET Framework 4.8 and above runtime environment must be installed in advance.

[0028] Macro file deployment guidelines: After downloading the Pmill_macrobutton.exe file, you need to place it in the "Macro Program Folder" under the CAM software installation directory (e.g., the corresponding path for UG NX: D:\Program Files\Siemens\NX 1847\UGII\macros).

[0029] Before running, right-click the file and select "Run as administrator" to complete the plugin registration. For the first launch, you need to enable macro program execution permissions in the CAM software. The path is: Customize → Options → Macros → Allow running external macros.

[0030] Key parameters of the basic module: Input model: Supports STP, IGES, and X_T format files. During verification, in addition to checking the existence of folders, it automatically checks whether there are broken surfaces in the model. If the number of broken surfaces is greater than 5, a warning will be output. If the number of broken surfaces is greater than 10, the operation will be terminated.

[0031] Create coordinates: The standardized naming format is forced to be "WCS-machining type-serial number" (e.g., WCS-rough machining-01, WCS-finish machining-02). The coordinate origin is set to the geometric center of the maximum contour of the mold by default.

[0032] Reference probe: The probe tool path uses a φ3mm ball end cutter by default, the probe point spacing is 5mm, the probe depth is 2mm below the surface of the blank, and the allowable calibration error range is ≤±0.02mm.

[0033] Editing module operation details: Batch calculation: Supports processing ≤20 toolpath files simultaneously. The calculation priority is sorted as roughing → semi-finishing → finishing. The background calculation does not affect the front-end operation.

[0034] Residual mold addition: The default residual allowance is 0.1mm, which can be adjusted through the parameter table window and can be set individually according to the toolpath type.

[0035] Collision calculation: By default, it detects collisions between the tool, tool holder and workpiece. The collision threshold is set to 0.03mm. After a collision is detected, the calculation is automatically paused and the collision area is highlighted.

[0036] Personalized module customization rules: Macro editing: Supports importing custom .mac format macros. Up to 30 macro commands can be added to a single module, and the command order can be adjusted by dragging and dropping.

[0037] Redundancy Removal: The system has a preset set of commonly used commands, such as a set for cavity machining and hole machining. After deleting redundant commands, they can be saved as a custom template (in .tpl format), which supports cross-device import and export.

[0038] Error handling and precautions: Plugin loading failed: Check if the CAM software version is compatible, reinstall the .NET Framework runtime environment, and confirm that the macro file path does not contain Chinese characters or special characters.

[0039] Toolpath calculation error: Check if there are broken surfaces in the model, use the CAM software to repair broken surfaces, check if the tool parameters exceed the machine tool travel range, and reset the machining boundaries.

[0040] Coordinate naming error: Strictly follow the WCS-process type-serial number format, delete duplicate coordinate files, restart the basic module and recreate them.

[0041] Operating safety procedures: Before batch processing, a trial calculation of a single toolpath is required to confirm that the parameters are correct before performing batch operations to avoid batch errors.

[0042] After customizing the macro program, a simulated processing verification is required (simulation time ≥ 1 / 3 of the actual processing time) to ensure no collision or overcutting risks.

[0043] After the generated CNC program is exported, it needs to be verified by machine tool simulation software to confirm that it meets the syntax requirements of the machine tool control system (such as FANUC, SINUMERIK).

[0044] Efficiency verification: For the same mold programming task, the traditional method takes 4 hours, while the method used here takes ≤1.5 hours, with an efficiency improvement of ≥60%.

[0045] Accuracy verification: The dimensional error of the processed mold is ≤ ±0.03mm, and the surface roughness Ra is ≤ 1.6μm, which meets the automotive mold processing standards.

[0046] Training verification: The training period for new trainees to master basic programming operations has been shortened from 15 days to 3 days, and the period for independently completing complex cavity programming has been shortened from 30 days to 10 days.

[0047] Module Analysis: Firstly, a simple operating interface is provided for training new students in the basic modules. By simply following the button sequence of the CAM software control method, most automotive mold inserts can be programmed, while the mold processing of programmers is standardized.

[0048] The input model statement determines whether the programmer has retained the CAM software processing data as required.

[0049] The creation of coordinate control specifications allows programmers to define coordinate names, thereby reducing errors caused by coordinates.

[0050] The baseline probing control method generates the probing toolpath with one click, which assists in the correction of multi-block processing, reduces workshop placement errors, and improves programming efficiency.

[0051] Secondly, the editing module is designed to meet the increasingly diverse needs in production, and to address the challenges of processing accuracy and efficiency requirements. It reduces the frequency of repetitive operations by programmers in mold processing, thereby avoiding errors caused by human error and improving programming efficiency.

[0052] The core of CAM software control methods is to automate repetitive operations and standardize complex processes, significantly improving programming efficiency and toolpath reliability. The customization module allows editing of multiple CAM software programs, providing an integrated framework for CAM software commands and strategies. CAM software methods can be modified and customized to suit individual programming habits. Templates can be standardized according to engineer requirements, reducing delays in machining processes due to syntax changes. This control method is highly practical.

[0053] The improvements made are: 1. Automated repetitive operations, doubling efficiency for frequently executed fixed processes.

[0054] 2. Standardize the process to reduce the error rate. Incorporate programming and processing specifications into the control method so that even beginners can operate strictly according to the standard, reducing processing accidents caused by human error in operation sequence or omission of parameters.

[0055] 3. Simplify complex operations and lower the barrier to entry: Integrate multi-step complex operations into a single plug-in button. For example, the process of generating residual corner clearing toolpaths for complex cavities is simplified from 5 manual steps to a 1-step macro trigger, allowing even beginners to quickly master it.

[0056] 4. Addressing personalized needs and expanding functionality: Plugins cater to diverse individual habits, enabling customized solutions. For example, programmers working on six-axis deep hole drilling rarely require macro programs or templates for machining surfaces and structures; they can modify and expand these features within the plugin.

[0057] 5. Standardize programming practices, ensuring consistent reading of coding styles, naming conventions, structural specifications, and requirements to guarantee uniform readability and modifiability for programmers. Specific steps: Start the CAM software and ensure that the software operating environment is normal; Open the Pmill_MacroButton.exe file to load the templated programming plugin of this invention and enter the three-level module operation interface; Basic process execution: The input model is completed sequentially through the basic modules. The system automatically verifies the existence of the folder, aligns the coordinates, creates coordinates according to the standard name, creates the blank, generates the probe toolpath with one click for the reference probe, and performs coordinate offset operations, thus completing the basic preparation for programming. Editing and optimization operations: Batch processing is performed using the editing module, including batch calculation of incomplete toolpaths, adding residual molds, replacing part allowances, batch naming of toolpaths, setting machining boundaries, and performing collision calculations to complete toolpath optimization; Personalized adaptation: By using personalized modules to remove redundant macro programs and adjust the command sequence, users can customize operation processes that suit their own habits and adapt to specific mold processing needs. Toolpath queue calculation: After all operations are completed, the toolpath queue calculation function is started to generate a standardized CNC program; Multi-software adaptation: If you need to use it in other CAM software, repeat steps 1-6 to achieve cross-software template programming.

[0058] Example 1: Programming of automotive mold inserts Open the UGNXCAM software, run Pmill_macrobutton.exe, and load the template plugin; Basic module operation: Click "Input Model", select the target insert model file, the system automatically verifies the existence of the model folder and loads the data; adjust the model posture through the "Coordinate Orientation" function, create machining coordinates according to standard naming rules, generate solid blanks, and start "Benchmark Probe" to generate correction toolpaths; Editing module operations: Batch add residual mold parameters, set the part allowance to 0.2mm, batch name the toolpaths as "Insert-Roughing-01" and "Insert-Finishing-02", retain the maximum machining boundary, and perform collision calculation; Personalized settings: Delete redundant macro programs related to six-axis deep hole drilling, retain commands for surface machining and structural groove machining; start toolpath queue calculation to generate CNC programs for machine tool processing.

[0059] Example 2: Programming of Complex Cavity Molds Open PowerMILLCAM software and load the template plugin of this invention; After the basic module completes the model input, coordinate creation and blank generation, the corner clearing toolpath can be quickly generated by one-click triggering function through the "Residual Corner Clearing Toolpath" function of the editing module, replacing the traditional 5-step manual operation. The batch calculation function can be used to process the machining toolpaths of 10 cavities at the same time, and the machining reference of multiple cavities can be corrected by the reference probing toolpath; Customize the toolpath entry and exit parameters to adapt to the machining needs of complex cavities and curved surfaces; after completing the toolpath calculation, export standardized G-code to ensure machining accuracy and efficiency.

[0060] It should be noted that, in this document, relational terms such as "first" and "second" are used only to distinguish one entity or operation from another, and do not necessarily require or imply any such actual relationship or order between these entities or operations. Furthermore, the terms "comprising," "including," or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed, or elements inherent to such a process, method, article, or apparatus. Without further limitations, an element defined by the phrase "comprising one..." does not exclude the presence of other identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that includes said element.

[0061] Although embodiments of the invention have been shown and described, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes, modifications, substitutions and alterations can be made to these embodiments without departing from the principles and spirit of the invention, the scope of which is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A CAM software control method for CNC programming software of automotive molds using template-based programming, characterized in that, Includes the following steps: S1: Establish a three-level modular architecture for CAM software control, wherein the three-level modules include a basic module, an editing module, and a personalization module; S2: Start the CAM software and load the Pmill_MacroButton.exe file to enter the templated programming interface; S3: Complete the basic process operations of automotive mold programming through the basic module, including inputting the model, coordinate alignment, creating coordinates, creating the blank, datum probing, and coordinate offset; S4: Utilize the editing module to perform batch processing and standardized operations, covering batch calculation, residual mold addition, part allowance replacement, toolpath naming, boundary processing, and collision calculation; S5: Customization is based on personalized modules, supporting the addition, deletion, modification and combination of CAM software commands, strategies and macro programs; S6: After completing all programming operations, perform queue calculations on the toolpaths to generate a CNC program that meets the machining requirements.

2. The CAM software control method for template-based programming of CNC programming software for automotive molds according to claim 1, characterized in that: In the basic module, the input model step includes a data integrity verification mechanism, which verifies the data by checking if the model folder exists. If the folder does not exist, a prompt message is output and the operation is terminated.

3. The CAM software control method for template-based programming of CNC programming software for automotive molds according to claim 1, characterized in that: The coordinate creation steps of the basic module adopt standardized naming rules, which forces programmers to define coordinate names according to a unified standard, reducing processing errors caused by coordinate confusion.

4. The CAM software control method for template-based programming of CNC programming software for automotive molds according to claim 1, characterized in that: The editing module supports auxiliary correction for multi-steel block processing. It generates a probe toolpath with one click through the reference probe, enabling rapid calibration of the processing reference and reducing the impact of workshop placement errors.

5. The CAM software control method for template-based programming of CNC programming software for automotive molds according to claim 1, characterized in that: The editing module integrates complex machining processes into single-step triggering operations, where the residual corner clearing toolpath generation process is simplified from a traditional 5-step manual operation to a 1-step macro program triggering process.

6. The CAM software control method for template-based programming of CNC programming software for automotive molds according to claim 1, characterized in that: The personalized module supports the integration of commands from multiple CAM software, allowing programmers to remove redundant macro programs, customize command combinations and operation processes, and adapt to different programming habits according to job requirements.

7. The CAM software control method for template-based programming of CNC programming software for automotive molds according to claim 1, characterized in that: All three modules have built-in standardized programming specifications, including programming style, naming rules and structural requirements, to ensure that the programs output by all programmers have consistent readability and modifiability.

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