Execution device, determination system, and computer-readable storage medium

By designing simulation and execution devices in the judgment system, the cumbersome problem of preparing, confirming, and executing machining programs in machine tools has been solved, realizing remote operation and automated machining program execution, thus improving machining efficiency and safety.

CN121794635APending Publication Date: 2026-04-03FANUC LTD
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Patent Information

Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Applications(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2023-09-14
Publication Date
2026-04-03

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

In the existing technology, the preparation, confirmation and safety verification process before the machining program is executed in the machine tool is cumbersome and it is difficult to achieve remote or automated program execution.

Method used

A judgment system is designed, comprising a simulation device and an execution device. The system confirms the executability of a machining program through simulation and automatically judges and executes the machining program after preparation is completed. The system includes a preparation confirmation unit, a receiving unit, a judgment unit, and an execution unit, enabling remote operation and automated execution of the machining program.

Benefits of technology

It simplifies the preparation process for machining procedures, enables remote operation and automated execution of machining procedures, reduces human intervention, and improves machining efficiency and safety.

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Abstract

The execution device includes: a preparation confirmation unit that confirms whether preparation for executing a machining program in a machine tool is completed; a receiving unit that receives a request for execution of the machining program; a determination unit that determines that the machining program can be executed when the completion of preparation for executing the machining program in the machine tool is confirmed and the reception unit receives an execution request for the machining program; and an execution unit that executes machining on the basis of the determination by the determination unit.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to execution devices, decision systems, and computer-readable storage media. Background Technology

[0002] In recent years, the following technology has emerged: based on a model designed using CAD (Computer Aided Design), a machining program is generated using CAM (Computer Aided Manufacturing), and the generated machining program is verified using CAE (Computer Aided Engineering). For example, Patent Document 1.

[0003] In addition, during machine tool processing, preparatory work such as workpiece setup and workpiece origin setting is performed. Previously, auxiliary preparatory devices existed. For example, Patent Document 2.

[0004] Existing technical documents

[0005] Patent documents

[0006] Patent Document 1: International Publication No. 2010 / 073296

[0007] Patent Document 2: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2023-86843 Summary of the Invention

[0008] The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0009] Most machining programs are generated by information processing devices such as PCs (Personal Computers). The numerical control device reads the machining program generated by the PC and executes the machining.

[0010] In order to execute machining programs generated by CAD / CAM through numerical control devices, it is necessary to confirm the machining program and prepare the machine tool for safety reasons.

[0011] In addition, sometimes it is desirable to send the generated program to the machine tool and execute the machining program on the machine tool immediately.

[0012] In the field of factory systems, there is a desire to assist in the execution of processing procedures.

[0013] Methods for solving problems

[0014] The execution device proposed in this solution includes: a preparation confirmation unit that confirms whether preparation for executing a machining program in a machine tool is complete; a receiving unit that receives an execution request for the machining program; a judgment unit that, upon confirming that preparation for executing the machining program in the machine tool is complete and that the receiving unit has received the execution request for the machining program, determines that the machining program can be executed; and an execution unit that executes the machining based on the judgment of the judgment unit. Attached Figure Description

[0015] Figure 1 This is the structure diagram of the judgment system.

[0016] Figure 2 This is a block diagram of the simulation device.

[0017] Figure 3 This is a block diagram of the execution device according to the first embodiment.

[0018] Figure 4 This is a flowchart illustrating the actions of the judgment system.

[0019] Figure 5 This is a block diagram of the execution device according to the second embodiment.

[0020] Figure 6 This is a hardware structure diagram of the actuator. Detailed Implementation

[0021] (First Implementation)

[0022] Reference Figure 1 The determination system 100 of this embodiment will now be described. The determination system 100 includes a simulation device 1 and an execution device 2.

[0023] Simulation device 1 uses simulation to determine the feasibility of the machining program. Actuation device 2 is, for example, a numerical control device. Actuation device 2 controls the machine tool, causing it to perform machining. Actuation device 2 and the machine tool can also be integrated, such as in a machining center.

[0024] Simulation device 1 and execution device 2 receive a start request from start unit 4. Start unit 4 is provided in at least one of simulation device 1, execution device 2, or other information processing device 3. Start unit 4 receives instructions from a user. The user specifies a processing procedure and execution device 2 to execute the processing procedure. Simulation device 1 and execution device 2 receive the start request for the processing procedure.

[0025] Figure 2 This is a block diagram of the simulation device.

[0026] The simulation device 1 includes a start unit 4, an execution confirmation unit 11, a confirmation result output unit 12, and a setting information output unit 13.

[0027] The executionability verification unit 11 uses simulation to verify the executability of the machining program. The executionability verification unit 11 verifies whether the machining program specified from the start unit 4 can be executed by the execution device 2 specified from the start unit 4. This verification is simulation-based. The shape information of the machine tool mechanism, workpiece, tool, etc., is registered in the machining program. The executionability verification unit 11 moves the tool using simulation to check for interference with the registered shape. The executionability verification unit 11 can also verify machining time and tool movement.

[0028] The execution verification unit 11 estimates the machining accuracy, including either the dimensions or surface quality of the workpiece processed through simulation. For example, the execution verification unit 11 calculates estimated values ​​for dimensions and surface quality. The execution verification unit 11 compares the estimated values ​​with preset parameters to confirm the machining accuracy of the machining program.

[0029] The execution verification unit 11 verifies whether the machining program is written in a programming language that the execution device 2 can recognize. Machining programs have different syntax and commands depending on the language. Based on the commands of the machining program, the execution verification unit 11 verifies whether the machining program can be executed by the execution device 2 specified by the start unit 4.

[0030] The execution verification unit 11 verifies whether the execution process is consistent with the process specified by the starting unit 4 through simulation.

[0031] The confirmation result output unit 12 outputs the confirmation results of interference inspection, machining accuracy, commands, etc. to the execution device 2.

[0032] The setting information output unit 13 outputs setting information used in the simulation to the execution device 2. The setting information includes the workpiece mounting position, tool information, workpiece coordinate values, tool offset values, macro variables, etc.

[0033] Figure 3 This is a block diagram of the actuator 2.

[0034] The actuator 2 includes a starting unit 4, a receiving unit 21, a preparation confirmation unit 22, a judgment unit 23, and an execution unit 24.

[0035] The receiving unit 21 receives a processing program execution start request from the starting unit 4. The receiving unit 21 also receives the execution confirmation result from the simulation device 1. The receiving unit 21 also receives setting information of the processing program during simulation execution, etc.

[0036] The preparation confirmation unit 22 confirms the completion of the machining preparation of the actuator 2 and the machine tool. The confirmation items for machining preparation include workpiece setup, tool installation, and machine tool status.

[0037] Furthermore, the preparation confirmation unit 22 confirms that the settings used in the simulation are consistent with the settings of the execution device 2. The setting information used in the simulation is obtained from the simulation device 1.

[0038] The preparation confirmation unit 22 confirms the completion of both manual and automatic operations. If the manual operation is completed, the operator inputs the completion information to the actuator 2. The preparation confirmation unit 22 obtains the parameters or signals indicating completion and identifies the completion of the manual operation.

[0039] For example, in the workpiece setup, the preparation verification unit 22 verifies whether the raw material of the workpiece is consistent with the raw material used in the simulation, and whether the workpiece is installed in the same location as in the simulation. Verification is performed by visual inspection or analysis of images from a camera, or by bringing a probe or tool into contact with the workpiece. Visual inspection is a manual operation, so the operator manually inputs the operation information to complete the task.

[0040] During tool installation, verify that the information of the tool used in the simulation exists in the tool management information of actuator 2, and whether the tool is installed on the machine tool spindle or in the magazine. Tool verification can be performed manually or automatically.

[0041] Regarding workpiece coordinate values, confirm that the origin of the workpiece coordinate system used in the simulation is the same as the origin of the workpiece coordinate system stored in the machining program of actuator 2. Regarding tool offset values, confirm that the tool offset values ​​used in the simulation are consistent with the tool offset values ​​of actuator 2. Regarding macro variables, confirm that they are consistent with the values ​​defined in the machining instructions used in the simulation.

[0042] Other settings include tool type, diameter, front end radius (R), blade length, number of blades, rotation speed, feed rate, depth of cut, allowance, and machining sequence.

[0043] The machine tool's status includes its air condition and oil level. Checking the machine tool's status can be done manually or automatically.

[0044] When the execution device 2 is in a ready-to-be-completed state and the receiving unit 21 receives the execution request of the processing program from the simulation device 1, the determination unit determines that processing can be performed by the execution device 2.

[0045] The execution unit 24 obtains the judgment result from the judgment unit 23. If machining is possible, the interference check of the machining program is completed, the workpiece and tool are accurately installed, and the air condition and oil quantity are appropriate. The execution unit 24 begins to execute the machining program.

[0046] Figure 4 This is a flowchart illustrating the actions of the judgment system 100.

[0047] As a premise, assume that any starting unit 4 receives a start request for the processing program.

[0048] When a start request is received, the executability verification unit 11 of the simulation device 1 performs a simulation of the machining program. When the simulation result confirms the executability of the machining program (step S1: Yes), the verification result output unit 12 outputs the verification result to the execution device 2. The setting information output unit 13 outputs the setting information used during the simulation to the execution device 2 (step S2).

[0049] If the simulation result cannot confirm the executability of the machining program (step S1: No), the simulation device 1 does not start executing the machining program (step S3).

[0050] The receiving unit 21 of the execution device 2 obtains the execution confirmation result and the setting information used during simulation from the simulation device 1. When the judgment unit 23 obtains the confirmation result from the simulation device 1, the judgment unit 23 determines whether the preparation for machining in the execution device 2 and the machine tool is complete. If the preparation for machining is complete (step S4: Yes), the judgment unit 23 determines that machining can begin and executes the machining program (step S5). If the preparation for machining is not complete (step S4: No), the judgment unit 23 determines that machining cannot be performed by the execution device 2 and does not execute the machining program (step S6).

[0051] As explained above, in the judgment system 100, the simulation device 1 and the execution device 2 can be remotely operated to start processing simply by operating the start unit 4. Furthermore, even if the simulation device 1 and the execution device 2 are in close proximity, the preparation for the execution of the processing program can be automated by providing the start unit 4.

[0052] (Second Implementation)

[0053] Reference Figure 5 The second embodiment will now be described. In the second embodiment, the programming device 5 incorporates the functions of the simulation device 1. The programming device 5 includes a start unit 4, an execution verification unit 11, a verification result output unit 12, a setting information output unit 13, a program generation unit 14, and a program storage unit 15.

[0054] The programming device 5 of the second embodiment adds a program generation unit 14 and a program storage unit 15 to the simulation device 1 of the first embodiment.

[0055] The program generation unit 14 consists of CAD (Computer-Aided Design) and CAM (Computer-Aided Machining). CAD assists in the generation of 3D models. CAM performs post-processing on the 3D models generated by CAD to generate machining programs. Specifically, the 3D model is imported into the CAM, the machining origin is set, the raw material is set, and the toolpath is set. In setting the toolpath, the tools and machining conditions are set. In setting the tools, the type, diameter, tip radius (R), cutting length, and number of cutting edges are set. In setting the machining conditions, the spindle speed, feed rate, depth of cut, and remaining feed are set.

[0056] Before setting the machining program, programmers sometimes also perform process design and job design. In process design, the machining accuracy, machine tool preparation, machining sequence, and other procedures are determined.

[0057] The program storage unit 15 stores the machining program setting information in association with the machining program. As described above, the machining program setting information is generated in parallel with the generation of the machining program. The machining program setting information is sent to the execution device 2. The preparation confirmation unit 22 of the execution device 2 determines whether the machining program setting information stored in the execution device 2 is consistent with the machining program setting information used in the simulation. The setting information includes program number, workpiece material, workpiece size, tool information, raw material information, maximum depth of cut, rotational speed, machining location, machining origin, feed rate, process information, etc.

[0058] In the judgment system 100 of the second embodiment, the programming device 5 can execute the generation of the machining program and the instruction to start the execution of the machining program. When work occurs in both the office and the factory, tasks such as the movement of workers and communication with supervisors are required. The judgment system 100 reduces such workload. In addition, the programmer of the machining program is not limited to personnel familiar with machine tools, and the operator of the machine tool is not limited to personnel familiar with CAD and CAM operations. In the judgment system 100, the start of the machining program can be automatically indicated by the operation start unit 4 alone, so even those unfamiliar with the execution method can easily execute the machining program.

[0059] The hardware structure of the execution device 2 will be described below. Additionally, the simulation device 1, other information processing devices 3, and programming device 5 also have the same hardware structure as the execution device 2, but their descriptions are omitted. Figure 6This is a hardware structure diagram of the execution device 2. As shown in the figure, the execution device 2 includes a CPU 111 for overall control of the execution device 2, a ROM 112 for recording programs and data, and a RAM 113 for temporarily expanding data. The CPU 111 reads the system program recorded in the ROM 112 via the bus and executes the system program.

[0060] The non-volatile memory 114 is backed up, for example by a battery (not shown), and maintains its storage state even when the power supply to the execution device 2 is disconnected. Various data, such as programs read from the external device 120 via interfaces 115, 118, and 119, and operation inputs input via the input unit 30, are stored in the non-volatile memory 114.

[0061] Interface 115 is used to connect the execution device 2 to an external device 120 such as an adapter. Programs, various parameters, etc. are read from the external device 120.

[0062] Interface 118 is an interface for connecting the execution device 2 to a display unit 70 such as a liquid crystal display. The display unit 70 displays various data read from the non-volatile memory 114, data obtained as a result of executing a program, etc.

[0063] Interface 119 is used to connect the actuator 2 to the input unit 30, such as a keyboard or indicator device. The input unit 30 transmits instructions and data based on the operator's operation to the CPU 111 via interface 119.

[0064] This disclosure has been described in detail, but it is not limited to the various embodiments described above. Various additions, substitutions, modifications, and partial deletions can be made to these embodiments without departing from the spirit of this disclosure or from the spirit of this disclosure derived from the content described in the claimed scope and its equivalents. Furthermore, these embodiments can also be implemented in combination. For example, in the embodiments described above, the order of each action and the order of each process are shown as an example and are not limited thereto.

[0065] The following notes are also disclosed regarding the above-described embodiments and variations.

[0066] (Note 1)

[0067] The execution device (2) includes: a preparation confirmation unit (22) that confirms whether preparation for executing a machining program in a machine tool is complete; a receiving unit (21) that receives an execution request for the machining program; a judgment unit (23) that, if it is confirmed that preparation for executing the machining program in the machine tool is complete and the receiving unit has received an execution request for the machining program, determines that the machining program can be executed; and an execution unit (24) that executes the machining based on the judgment of the judgment unit.

[0068] (Note 2)

[0069] The receiving unit (21) obtains a confirmation result of the executability of the machining program from at least one of the machining program generation device and the simulation device, and the judging unit (23) judges that the machining program can be executed when the machining program is executable and preparations for executing the machining program in the machine tool are completed.

[0070] (Note 3)

[0071] The receiving unit (21) obtains the processing program from at least one of the processing program generation device and the simulation device.

[0072] (Note 4)

[0073] The preparation confirmation unit (22) confirms whether the workpiece corresponding to the processing procedure is installed in a predetermined location, and the confirmation method is at least one of visual inspection, image, and probe.

[0074] (Note 5)

[0075] The preparation confirmation unit (22) confirms that the information of the tool required for processing is included in the tool management information and that the tool is installed on the spindle or in the tool library.

[0076] (Note 6)

[0077] The receiving unit (21) obtains the setting information used in the simulation of the processing procedure, and the preparation confirmation unit (22) confirms whether the setting information used in the simulation is consistent with the setting information of the execution device.

[0078] (Note 7)

[0079] The setting information is at least one of the following: workpiece coordinate values, tool offset values, and macro variables.

[0080] (Postscript 8)

[0081] The performance verification results include simulation-based interference checks.

[0082] (Note 9)

[0083] The validation results of the enforceability include an estimate of the machining accuracy based on at least one of the simulated dimensions and surface quality.

[0084] (Postscript 10)

[0085] The execution confirmation result includes the confirmation result of the commands of the processing procedure.

[0086] (Postscript 11)

[0087] The executionability verification result includes the verification through simulation that the executionability process is consistent with the process specified by the starting part.

[0088] (Postscript 12)

[0089] The judgment system (100) includes: a start unit (4) that receives a request to start the execution of a machining program; and an executeability confirmation unit (11) that confirms the executeability of the machining program, that the machining program is executeable, and, when preparations for executing the machining program in a machine tool are completed, determines that the machining program can be executed.

[0090] (Postscript 13)

[0091] The computer-readable storage medium (112, 113, 114) stores commands that cause one or more processors (111) installed in the execution device (2) to perform the following processes: confirming whether preparation for executing a machining program in the machine tool is complete, receiving an execution request for the machining program, and determining that the machining program can be executed if it is confirmed that preparation for executing the machining program in the machine tool is complete and the execution request for the machining program has been received.

[0092] Symbol Explanation

[0093] 100 Judgment System

[0094] 1 Simulation device

[0095] 2 Actuating device

[0096] 3 Other information processing devices

[0097] 4. Beginning

[0098] 11. Performance Verification Department

[0099] 12 Confirmation Result Output Department

[0100] 13. Setting up the information output unit

[0101] 21 Receiving Department

[0102] 22 Preparation and Confirmation Department

[0103] 23 Judgment Department

[0104] 24th Executive Department

[0105] 111 CPU

[0106] 112 ROM

[0107] 113 RAM

[0108] 114 non-volatile memory.

Claims

1. An actuator, characterized in that, have: The preparation confirmation department confirms whether the preparations for executing the machining program in the machine tool are complete; The receiving unit receives the execution request of the processing program; The determination unit determines that the machining program can be executed if it confirms that preparation for executing the machining program in the machine tool is complete and the receiving unit has received the execution request for the machining program. as well as The execution unit performs processing based on the judgment of the judgment unit.

2. The actuator according to claim 1, characterized in that, The receiving unit obtains a confirmation result of the executability of the machining program from at least one of the machining program generation device and the simulation device. The determination unit determines that the machining program is executable and, when preparation for executing the machining program in the machine tool is completed, that the machining program can be executed.

3. The actuator according to claim 2, characterized in that, The receiving unit obtains the processing program from at least one of the processing program generation device and the simulation device.

4. The actuator according to claim 1, characterized in that, The preparation and confirmation unit confirms whether the workpiece corresponding to the processing program is installed in the predetermined location, and the confirmation method is at least one of visual inspection, image, and probe.

5. The actuator according to claim 1, characterized in that, The preparation and confirmation department confirms that the information on the tools required for processing is included in the tool management information and that the corresponding tools are installed on the spindle or in the tool library.

6. The actuator according to claim 2, characterized in that, The receiving unit acquires the setting information used in the simulation of the machining process. The preparation confirmation unit confirms whether the setting information used in the simulation is consistent with the setting information of the execution device.

7. The actuator according to claim 6, characterized in that, The setting information is at least one of the following: workpiece coordinate values, tool offset values, and macro variables.

8. The actuator according to claim 2, characterized in that, The performance verification results include simulation-based interference checks.

9. The actuator according to claim 2, characterized in that, The validation results of the enforceability include an estimate of the machining accuracy based on at least one of the simulated dimensions and surface quality.

10. The actuator according to claim 2, characterized in that, The execution confirmation result includes the confirmation result of the commands of the processing procedure.

11. The actuator according to claim 2, characterized in that, The executionability verification result includes the verification through simulation that the executionability process is consistent with the process specified by the starting part.

12. A judgment system, characterized in that, have: The starting section receives the request to begin executing the processing program; and The execution verification department verifies the executability of the processing procedure. If the machining program is executable and preparations for executing the machining program in the machine tool are completed, it is determined that the machining program can be executed.

13. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, Its storage enables one or more processors installed on the execution device to execute commands that perform the following processes: Confirm that the preparations for executing the machining program in the machine tool are complete. Receive the execution request of the processing program. If it is confirmed that preparations for executing the machining program in the machine tool are complete, and an execution request for the machining program has been received, it is determined that the machining program can be executed.

Citation Information

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