CONTROL DEVICE, MACHINE TOOL AND CONTROL METHOD

Abstract

A control device (14) for a machine tool (10) comprises: a detection unit (76) that detects the type of tool (16) used for machining a workpiece; a determination unit (78) that determines, based on the type of tool (16), whether the operation of a fog collector (34) is permitted or prohibited; and a collector control unit (80) that switches on the fog collector (34) when it is determined that the operation of the fog collector (34) is permitted and switches off the fog collector (34) when it is determined that the operation of the fog collector (34) is prohibited.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to a control device for controlling a machine tool, comprising a mist collector (mist separator), a machine tool connected to the control device, and a control method. STATE OF THE ART

[0002] A mist collector collects mist generated in a machining area of ​​a machine tool (see also JP 2012-076006 A). The mist collector collects the mist within the machining area and prevents it from escaping. The mist contains evaporated coolant. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0003] Vibrations may occur in the mist collector during operation. In this case, there is a risk that the vibrations generated by the mist collector could interfere with the machining of a workpiece and reduce machine accuracy.

[0004] An object of the present invention is to solve the above-mentioned problem.

[0005] A first aspect of the present invention is a control device for a machine tool having a mist collector configured to collect mist in a machining area, the machine tool being configured to machine a workpiece within the machining area, the control device comprising a detection unit configured to detect a tool type used for machining the workpiece, a determination unit configured to determine whether operation of the mist collector is permitted or prohibited based on the type of tool, and a collector control unit configured to turn ON the operation of the mist collector in a case where a determination has been made to permit the operation of the mist collector, and to turn ON the operation of the mist collector in a case where a determination has been made to prohibit the operation of the mist collector.to switch OFF.,

[0006] A second aspect of the present invention is a machine tool comprising the control device according to the first aspect.

[0007] A third aspect of the present invention is a control method for controlling a machine tool by a computer, which includes a mist collector configured to collect mist in a machining area, the machine tool being configured to machine a workpiece within the machining area, the control method comprising a detecting step for detecting a type of tool used to perform machining on the workpiece, a determining step for determining whether to permit or prohibit operation of the mist collector based on the tool type, and a collector control step for turning on the operation of the mist collector in a case where a decision has been made to permit operation of the mist collector and turning off the operation of the mist collector in a case where a decision has been madeto prohibit the operation of the fog collector.

[0008] According to the present invention, for example, in the case where a workpiece is machined with a tool used for precision machining, the mist collection by the mist collector can be stopped. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the vibration generated by the mist collector from affecting the machining of the workpiece. This makes it possible to avoid deterioration of machining accuracy. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS [ Fig. 1] Fig. 1 is a schematic diagram of a machine tool according to an embodiment; [ Fig. 2] Fig. 2 is a block diagram of a control device; [ Fig. 3] Fig. 3 is a flowchart illustrating a control method according to the embodiment; [ Fig. 4] Fig. 4 is a schematic diagram of a machine tool according to an exemplary modification 1; and [ Fig. 5] Fig. 5 is a block diagram of a control device according to an exemplary modification 2. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION [Embodiment]

[0009] Fig. 1 is a schematic representation of a machine tool 10 according to an embodiment.

[0010] The Fig. The X-direction and Y-direction shown in Figure 1 are directions parallel to a horizontal plane. The X-direction and Y-direction are orthogonal to each other. Fig. The Z-direction shown in Figure 1 is a direction parallel to the direction of gravity. Accordingly, the Z-direction is perpendicular to the X-direction and the Y-direction. Fig. However, the Z direction shown in Figure 1 indicates a direction opposite to the direction of gravity.

[0011] The machine tool 10 comprises a machining device 12 and a control device 14.

[0012] The machining device 12 is a machine device that performs machining on a workpiece using a tool 16. The machining device 12 is equipped with a spindle 18, a spindle head 20, a column 22, a base 24, a table 26, a table drive unit 28, a cover 30, a coolant supply device 32, and a mist collector (separator) 34.

[0013] A tool holder 36 is attached to the spindle 18. The tool holder 36 can be attached to and detached from the spindle 18. The tool holder 36 holds the tool 16. The tool 16 is, for example, a spring-neck turning tool, a drill, an end mill, a milling cutter, or the like.

[0014] The machining device 12 is further equipped with a tool magazine 38. The tool magazine 38 releasably holds a plurality of tools 16. One of the plurality of tools 16 held in the tool magazine 38 is replaceably mounted on the tool holder 36.

[0015] The spindle head 20 supports the spindle 18. Furthermore, the spindle head 20 contains a motor that rotates the spindle 18. The tool 16, which is attached to the spindle 18 via the tool holder 36, rotates together with the spindle 18.

[0016] Column 22 supports spindle head 20. Column 22 also contains a motor that moves spindle head 20 in the Z direction. Column 22 is mounted on base 24.

[0017] The base 24 is installed on an installation surface. The installation surface is, for example, a factory floor. The installation surface can be a support surface of a platform provided on the floor. The installation surface extends, for example, parallel to the horizontal plane. The base 24 can be equipped with a plurality of leg elements 24a. Each of the leg elements 24a can be, for example, a caster, a lifting device, or the like.

[0018] The table drive unit 28 is mounted on the base 24. The table drive unit 28 is equipped with a first sliding unit 42, a carriage 44, and a second sliding unit 46.

[0019] The first sliding unit 42 is installed on the base 24. The first sliding unit 42 includes, for example, guide rails that extend in the Y direction. The first sliding unit 42 supports the carriage 44.

[0020] The carriage 44 moves in the Y direction according to the drive of a motor (not shown). The motor is controlled by the control device 14. The carriage 44 moves while being guided by the first sliding unit 42.

[0021] The second sliding unit 46 is mounted on the carriage 44. The second sliding unit 46 includes, for example, guide rails that extend in the X direction.

[0022] The table 26 supports a workpiece (not shown) below the spindle 18. The table 26 is mounted on the second carriage unit 46. The table 26 moves in the X direction according to the drive of a motor (not shown). The motor is controlled by the control device 14. The table 26 moves while being guided by the second carriage unit 46.

[0023] The cover 30 covers the spindle 18, the spindle head 20, the column 22, the base 24, the table 26, and the table drive unit 28. Consequently, the cover 30 forms a machining area 48. A workpiece is machined within the machining area 48.

[0024] The cover 30 is further equipped with a door and a window (not shown). The operator can insert the workpiece into the processing area 48 through the open door. Furthermore, the operator can easily check the status of the processing area 48 through the window.

[0025] The coolant supply device 32 is a device that supplies the coolant to the machining area 48. The coolant supply device 32 is equipped with a coolant tank 50, a nozzle 52, a supply line 54, and a pump 56.

[0026] The coolant tank 50 is a tank for storing coolant. The coolant tank 50 is installed outside the machining area 48.

[0027] The nozzle 52 is an ejection unit that ejects the coolant. The nozzle 52 is arranged within the machining area 48. Furthermore, the coolant supply device 32 can be equipped with a plurality of nozzles 52.

[0028] The supply line 54 is a line connecting the coolant tank 50 and the nozzle 52. Furthermore, the coolant supply device 32 may be equipped with a plurality of supply pipes 54. The number of supply pipes 54 is determined, for example, according to the number of nozzles 52. The supply pipe 54 passes through the cover 30 and connects the coolant tank 50 and the nozzle 52.

[0029] The pump 56 is connected to the supply line 54. The pump 56 draws the coolant from the coolant tank 50 and delivers the coolant to the nozzle 52. Consequently, the coolant is discharged from the nozzle 52 into the machining area 48. The pump 56 is controlled by the control device 14.

[0030] The coolant discharged into the machining area 48 cools the tool 16 and the workpiece. The coolant discharged into the machining area 48 is evaporated, and the evaporated mist is generated in the machining area 48.

[0031] The mist collector 34 is a device used to collect the mist within the processing area 48. The mist collector 34 is installed outside the processing area 48. Furthermore, the mist collector 34 is connected to the cover 30 via a duct 58. The mist collector 34 collects the mist by sucking in air within the processing area 48. This function prevents the mist from escaping from the processing area 48 through small gaps that occur in the processing device 12.

[0032] When a workpiece is cut by the cutting tool 16, fine or tiny cutting chips in the form of powdered dust are generated within the machining area 48. When the mist collector 34 draws air within the machining area 48, not only the mist but also the powdered dust is collected by the mist collector 34. Due to this property, the powdered dust is also prevented from escaping from the machining area 48 through small gaps that occur in the machining device 12.

[0033] The mist collector 34 can be connected to the coolant tank 50. Consequently, the mist collected by the mist collector 34 can be returned to the coolant tank 50 as coolant.

[0034] If the mist collector 34 and the coolant tank 50 are connected, it is preferable that the mist collector 34 and the coolant tank 50 be connected via a filter device (not shown). The filter device removes impurities from the coolant that is supplied from the mist collector 34 to the coolant tank 50. By connecting the mist collector 34 and the coolant tank 50 via the filter device, clean coolant can be returned from the mist collector 34 to the coolant tank 50. Impurities in the coolant include, for example, the cutting chips that were collected along with the mist.

[0035] Fig. 2 is a block diagram of the control device 14.

[0036] The control device 14 is a computer that controls the processing device 12. The control device 14 is, for example, a numerical control device. The control device 14 is equipped with a display unit 60, an operating unit 62, a storage unit 64, a computing unit 66, and an electrical standby power supply unit (emergency power supply) 68.

[0037] The display unit 60 is a display device equipped with a display screen 60d. The display unit 60 is, for example, a liquid crystal display device or an OEL (Organic Electroluminescence) display device.

[0038] The operation unit 62 is an input device that receives instructions from the operator to the control device 14. The operation unit 62 includes, for example, an operation panel 62a and a touch panel 62b or the like. The touch panel 62b is provided on the display screen 60d. The operation unit 62 (the operation panel 62a) can be equipped with a keyboard, a mouse, or the like.

[0039] The storage unit 64 consists of a volatile memory (not shown) and a non-volatile memory (not shown). Examples of the volatile memory include RAM (Random Access Memory) or the like. Examples of the non-volatile memory include ROM (Read Only Memory) and flash memory or the like. Data and the like can be stored in the volatile memory, for example. Programs, tables, maps, etc., can be stored in the non-volatile memory, for example. At least a part of the storage unit 64 can be included in a processor, an integrated circuit, or the like. In the present embodiment, the storage unit 64 stores a control program 70 and a machining program 72.

[0040] The control program 70 is a program for causing the control device 14 to execute the control method according to the present embodiment. The control method will be described later.

[0041] The machining program 72 is a program containing control commands for the machining device 12. The machining program 72 contains, for example, a plurality of control commands for controlling each of the aforementioned motors. Furthermore, the machining program 72 also contains, for example, a plurality of control commands for controlling the coolant supply device 32. The machining program 72 is created or edited in advance by the operator.

[0042] The computing unit 66 consists of a processor, which includes, for example, a CPU (central processing unit) and a GPU (graphics processor) or the like. The computing unit 66 includes a processing circuit.

[0043] The computing unit 66 includes a processing control unit 74, a detection unit 76, a determination unit 78, and a collector control unit 80. The processing control unit 74, the detection unit 76, the determination unit 78, and the collector control unit 80 are implemented by the processor of the computing unit 66, which executes the control program 70. At least a portion of the processing control unit 74, the detection unit 76, the determination unit 78, and the collector control unit 80 can be implemented by an integrated circuit such as an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) or an FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array). At least a portion of the processing control unit 74, the detection unit 76, the determination unit 78, and the collector control unit 80 can be configured by an electronic circuit with a discrete component.

[0044] The machining control unit 74 performs machining of the workpiece by controlling the machining device 12 based on the machining program 72. The machining control unit 74 controls the mounting of the tool 16, the rotation of the spindle 18, the movement of the spindle head 20, the movement of the table 26, and the like. However, the mist collector 34 of the machining device 12 is controlled by the collector control unit 80.

[0045] The detection unit 76 detects a type of tool 16 used for machining a workpiece. The detection unit 76 starts detecting the type of tool 16 when the mounting of the tool 16 is detected. The mounting of the tool 16 occurs before machining of the workpiece begins. The mounting of the tool 16 includes the case where the tool 16 is replaced with a new tool 16. Detection of the mounting of the tool 16 is performed by a switch, a sensor, or the like provided in the spindle head 20. In this case, the detection unit 76 detects the case where the attachment of the tool 16 is detected based on the detection signal output from the switch, the sensor, or the like, and starts detecting the type of tool 16.

[0046] The detection unit 76 can detect the type of the tool 16 based on the tool identification information. In this case, a tool table stored in the storage unit 64 is used. In the tool table, the tool identification information and the type information indicating the type of the tool 16 are associated with each other. The tool identification information is information for identifying the tool 16 and includes at least one of a tool number, a tool weight, a tool diameter, a tool length, and a tool runout degree. The tool runout degree is a runout degree (deviation from the rotation axis) of the tool 16 rotating at a predetermined speed.

[0047] For example, the detection unit 76 can detect the type of the tool 16 according to the tool number included in the machining program 72 using the tool table. For example, the detection unit 76 can detect the type of the tool 16 corresponding to at least one of the following: the tool weight, the tool diameter, the tool length, and the tool runout, which are detected by a detection mechanism, using the tool table. The detection mechanism includes a camera, a measuring instrument, a sensor, and the like, which are mounted on the machining device 12. Examples of the sensor include a weight sensor and a vibration sensor.

[0048] The detection unit 76 can detect the type of the tool 16 input from the operation unit 62 according to a user's operation. In this case, the detection unit 76 can control the display unit 60 or the like to notify the operator that the type of the tool 16 should be input.

[0049] The determination unit 78 determines whether the operation of the mist collector 34 is permitted or prohibited based on the type of the tool 16 detected by the detection unit 76. In this case, a determination table TB stored in the storage unit 64 is used. In the determination table TB, type information indicating the type of the tool 16 and status information indicating whether the operation of the mist collector 34 is permitted or prohibited are linked. For example, if the type information indicates a milling cutter or a drill, the determination unit 78 determines that the operation of the mist collector 34 is permitted. If the type information indicates a spring-loaded rotary tool or an end mill, the determination unit 78 determines that the operation of the mist collector 34 is prohibited.

[0050] If the type information indicates the type of tool 16 used for precision machining, the determination unit 78 may determine to prohibit the operation of the mist collector 34. If the type information indicates the type of tool 16 with a natural frequency that corresponds to or approximates the vibration of the mist collector 34, the determination unit 78 may determine to prohibit the operation of the mist collector 34.

[0051] The collector control unit 80 controls the mist collector 34 based on the determination result of the determination unit 78. If the determination unit 78 has determined to permit the operation of the mist collector 34, the filter control unit 80 turns ON the operation of the mist collector 34. In this case, the mist collector 34 is automatically started from the time the operation of the mist collector 34 is turned on and begins collecting the mist.

[0052] On the other hand, if the determination unit 78 determines that the operation of the mist collector 34 is prohibited, the collector control unit 80 turns OFF the operation of the mist collector 34. In this case, the mist collector 34 is not started.

[0053] The standby electrical power supply unit (emergency power supply) 68 is an electrical power supply that is separate from the main power supply of the control device 14. The standby electrical power supply unit 68 includes, for example, a battery. The emergency electrical power supply unit 68 is integrated into the control device 14. However, the standby electrical power supply unit 68 may be provided in the machine tool 10 as an external power supply for the control device 14. Furthermore, it should be noted that the main power supply for the control device 14 is not illustrated in the drawings.

[0054] If the main power supply of the control device 14 is turned off while the fog collector 34 is operating, the standby electrical power supply unit 68 supplies electrical power to each of the components of the control device 14. According to this function, the collector control unit 80 can continue to control the fog collector 34 even after the main power supply is turned off.

[0055] When the mist collector 34 is powered by a power source other than the main power supply of the control device 14, the mist collector 34 can continue to operate even if the main power supply of the control device 14 is turned off. In such a case, the main power supply of the control device 14 can be turned off before the collector control unit 80 stops the mist collector 34. In such a case, by supplying electrical power from the standby electrical power supply unit 68, the collector control unit 80 can cause the mist collector 34 to automatically stop even after the main power supply of the control device 14 is turned off. According to this function, wasteful power consumption of the mist collector 34 is avoided.

[0056] Fig. 3 is a flowchart illustrating the control method according to the embodiment.

[0057] The control device 14 can execute a control method, for example as shown in Fig. 3. The control procedure of Fig. 3 includes a detection step S1, a determination step S2, a collector control step S3, and a processing step S4. The collector control step S3 includes a step S31 for turning on the operation and a step S32 for turning off the operation. The detection step S1, the determination step S2, and the collector control step S3 are executed before machining of the workpiece begins.

[0058] The detection step S1 is a step for detecting the type of the tool 16. In the detection step S1 according to the present embodiment, the type of the tool 16 is detected by the detection unit 76. When the mounting of the tool 16 to the spindle 18 is detected, the detection unit 76 analyzes the machining program 72 by which the mounting of the tool 16 was performed and detects the type of the tool 16.

[0059] Determination step S2 is a step for determining whether the operation of the mist collector 34 is permitted or prohibited based on the type of tool 16 detected in detection step S1. In determination step S2 according to the present embodiment, the determination unit 78 determines whether the operation of the mist collector 34 is permitted or prohibited based on the determination table TB.

[0060] If the status information of the determination table TB corresponding to the type of tool 16 detected in detection step S1 indicates permission for the operation of the mist filter 34 (S2: NO), the determination unit 78 determines that the operation of the mist filter 34 is permitted. Conversely, if the status information of the determination table TB corresponding to the type of tool 16 detected in detection step S1 indicates prohibition of the operation of the mist collector 34 (S2: YES), the determination unit 78 determines that the operation of the mist collector 34 is prohibited. Depending on the determination content in determination step S2, the operation-ON step S31 or the operation-OFF step S32 is started.

[0061] The operation start step S31 is a step in which the mist collector 34 is started for operation. In the operation start step S31 according to the present embodiment, the collector control unit 80 starts the operation of the mist collector 34. In this case, machining of the workpiece is started after the mist collection by the mist collector 34 has started.

[0062] The operation stop step S32 is a step in which the mist collector 34 is turned off so as not to operate. In the operation stop step S32 according to the present embodiment, the collector control unit 80 turns off the operation of the mist collector 34. In this case, machining of the workpiece is started without collecting the mist by the mist collector 34.

[0063] Machining step S4 is a step for machining a workpiece. In machining step S4 according to the present embodiment, the workpiece is machined under the control of the machining control unit 74 of the machining device 12. In this case, the machining control unit 74 machines the workpiece based on the machining program 72, which executes the mounting of the tool 16 to the spindle 18.

[0064] When the operation of the mist collector 34 is turned off in the collector control step S3, the control process of Fig. 3 is terminated when the machining of the workpiece is completed. When the operation of the mist collector 34 is turned on in the collector control step S3, the collector control unit 80 stops the mist collector 34 at the time when the machining of the workpiece is completed. In this case, the control method according to Fig. 3 is completed when the stopping of the fog collector 34 is completed.

[0065] As described above, in the present embodiment, the type of tool 16 used for machining the workpiece is detected, and whether the operation of the mist collector 34 is permitted or prohibited (prohibited) is determined based on the type of tool 16. When it is determined to permit the operation of the mist collector 34, the operation of the mist collector 34 is turned on, and when it is determined to prohibit the operation of the mist collector 34, the operation of the mist collector 34 is turned off.

[0066] According to such features, for example, in the case where a workpiece is machined by a tool 16 used for precision machining, the mist collection by the mist collector 34 can be stopped. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the vibration generated by the mist collector 34 from affecting the machining of the workpiece. This can prevent a reduction in machine accuracy. Furthermore, since the mist collector 34 is stopped, the power consumption of the mist collector 34 is reduced. Furthermore, the operation of the mist collector 34 can be turned on and off independently of the coolant discharge. [Example variations]

[0067] The following describes exemplary modifications of the above-described embodiment. However, any descriptions that are duplicated or overlap with those of the above-described embodiment will be omitted from the following description. Unless otherwise noted, the same reference numerals as in the above-described embodiment are used to refer to the elements already described in the embodiment. (Example Modification 1)

[0068] Fig. 4 is a schematic diagram of a machine tool 101 (10) according to an exemplary modification 1. The machine tool 101 is further equipped with a sub-control device 82. In the machine tool 101, the standby electric power supply unit 68 of the control device 14 may be omitted.

[0069] Subcontroller 82 is a computer separate from controller 14. Subcontroller 82 is equipped with, for example, a processor and memory. Subcontroller 82 may also be equipped with an integrated circuit, a discrete device, or the like.

[0070] If the control device 14 is stopped, the sub-control device 82 controls the mist collector 34 instead of the collector control unit 80. Therefore, even if the control device 14 is stopped, the mist collector 34 is controlled by the sub-control device 82 in the same manner as in the embodiment.

[0071] For example, when machining is completed, the operator instructs the control device 14 to stop machining immediately. Consequently, the control device 14 stops machining immediately after machining is completed. However, as previously mentioned, it is preferable for the mist collector 34 to collect the mist until the predetermined time period has elapsed after machining is completed. In such a case, the sub-control device 82 may control the mist collector 34 instead of the control device 14.

[0072] For example, if the main power supply of the control device 14 is turned off before the mist collector control unit 80 stops the mist collector 34, the sub-control device 82 can control the mist collector 34 instead of the control device 14.

[0073] Furthermore, it is preferable that the sub-controller 82 and the controller 14 communicate with each other as needed and share the data required for controlling the mist collector 34. For example, the sub-controller 82 and the controller 14 share the type of tool 16 detected by the detection unit 76, the determination content from the determination unit 78, or the progress of machining. According to these features, the sub-controller 82 is able to smoothly take over the control performed by the collector control unit 80. According to the present exemplary modification, control of the mist collector 34 by the sub-controller 82 can be continued even after the controller 14 is stopped. (Example Modification 2)

[0074] Fig.5 is a block diagram of a control device 142 (14) according to an exemplary modification 2. The control device 142 is further equipped with an alarm output unit 84.

[0075] The alarm output unit 84 outputs an alarm when an abnormality has occurred in the machine tool 10. For example, the machine tool 10 is suitably equipped with sensors (not shown) to detect malfunctions or failures in each of the respective components, such as the spindle 18, the spindle head 20, the table drive unit 28, etc. The alarm output unit 84 determines whether or not a malfunction has occurred in the machine tool 10 based on the signals output from the sensors. If a malfunction is detected in any of the respective components of the machine tool 10, the alarm output unit 84 outputs a notification to the operator, for example, via the display unit 60, that a malfunction has occurred.

[0076] If the alarm output unit 84 has issued an alarm before the start of machining, the machining control unit 74 will not start machining until the cause of the alarm has been eliminated. If the alarm output unit 84 has issued an alarm after the start of machining, the machining control unit 74 will interrupt machining based on the machining program 72 until the cause of the alarm has been eliminated.

[0077] On the other hand, if an alarm is issued and the operation of the mist collector 34 is enabled, the collector control unit 80 stops the operation of the mist collector 34 until the cause of the alarm is eliminated. According to such features, it is possible to prevent the mist collector 34 from continuing to operate in the event of an emergency of the machine tool 10. However, if an operator instructs to start the operation at the time of the abnormal stop of the machining device 12, the collector control unit 80 can restart the operation of the mist collector 34. (Combination of several exemplary modifications)

[0078] The variety of exemplary modifications described above can be combined as needed, as long as there are no contradictions between them. [Modified embodiments]

[0079] It should be noted that the present invention is not limited to the embodiment described above, and that various alternative or additional configurations may be adopted therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

[0080] According to the above embodiment, for example, the mist collector 34 stops when the machining control unit 74 completes the machining. However, the collector control unit 80 may control the mist collector 34 so that the mist collector 34 collects the mist in the machining area 48 until a predetermined period of time has elapsed after the machining is completed. By intentionally operating the mist collector 34 after the machining is completed, loss during mist collection can be prevented. The predetermined period of time is specified in advance to the collector control unit 80 by an operator via the operation unit 62, for example. However, the predetermined period of time may also be specified by the manufacturer of the machine tool 10.

[0081] In addition, for example, according to the above-described embodiment, the collector control unit 80 causes the mist collector 34 to start collecting the mist before machining of the workpiece is started. However, the collector control unit 80 may cause the mist collector 34 to start collecting the mist after a predetermined standby time has elapsed since the start of machining of the workpiece. By intentionally operating the mist collector 34 after machining has started, it is possible to reduce the power consumption of the mist collector 34. The standby time is set in advance on the collector control unit 80 by an operator via the operation unit 62, for example. However, the standby time may also be set by the manufacturer of the machine tool 10.

[0082] For example, the collector control unit 80 may receive instructions from the operator to permit operation of the mist collector 34 during a period from the time the decision is made to prohibit operation of the mist collector 34 until the time the workpiece is machined. If the instructions are issued to permit operation of the mist collector 34, the collector control unit 80 will enable operation of the mist collector 34 even if the decision has been made to prohibit operation. Likewise, the collector control unit 80 may receive instructions from the operator to prohibit operation of the mist collector 34 during a period from the time the decision is made to permit operation of the mist collector 34 until the time the workpiece is machined.When instructions prohibiting the operation of the mist collector 34 are issued, the collector control unit 80 turns off the operation of the mist collector 34 even if the decision to permit operation has been made. Thus, when the collector control unit 80 receives instructions from the operator to permit or prohibit the operation of the mist collector 34, it gives priority to the instructions and turns the operation of the mist collector 34 ON or OFF regardless of the decision of the determination unit 78. According to this function, it is possible to turn the operation of the mist collector 34 on or off, with the operator's intention taking priority.

[0083] For example, the determination unit 78 can determine whether the operation of the mist collector 34 is permitted or prohibited based on the type of the tool 16 and the material of the workpiece. The material of the workpiece can be added to the determination table TB or input by an operator. By adding the material of the workpiece to the determination conditions of the determination unit 78, it is possible to define in detail the case where the operation of the mist collector 34 is permitted and the case where the operation of the mist collector 34 is prohibited. The vibration generated during machining of the workpiece (machining vibration) may resonate with the vibration generated by the mist collector 34 (collector vibration). The machining vibration depends not only on the tool 16 but also on the material of the workpiece.Therefore, by adding the material of the workpiece to the determination conditions of the determination unit 78, it is possible to appropriately determine to prohibit the operation of the mist filter 34 when there is a possibility that the collector vibration and the machining vibration resonate.

[0084] For example, the machining control unit 74 may control the coolant pump 56 according to the operating state of the mist collector 34. That is, if the determination unit 78 determines to permit the operation of the mist collector 34, the machining control unit 74 drives the coolant pump 56. On the other hand, if the determination unit 78 determines to prohibit the operation of the mist collector 34, the machining control unit 74 does not drive the coolant pump 56. In this way, it is possible to prevent the vibration generated by the coolant supply device 32 from affecting the machining of the workpiece.

[0085] For example, the status information can also be optionally defined in the processing program 72. In this case, the determination unit 78 can determine whether the operation of the mist collector 34 is permitted or prohibited based on the processing program 72. Therefore, the determination table TB does not need to be stored in the storage unit 64. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the storage capacity of the storage unit 64.

[0086] Furthermore, the coolant discharge method is not limited to that of the embodiment. For example, the coolant may be discharged using a center-pass method. In this case, the coolant supply device 32 supplies the coolant to the spindle 18. Furthermore, the coolant may flow along the inner wall of the cover 30 (the machining area 48).

[0087] For example, the machining apparatus 12 may be further equipped with a recovery member (not shown) for recovering the coolant that drops from the table 26. Such a recovery member is, for example, an oil pan provided on the base 24. Part of the coolant supplied to the machining area 48 drops from the table 26 without turning into a mist. According to the present exemplary modification, it is possible to collect the coolant that has dropped from the table 26. The collected coolant can be returned to the coolant tank 50. According to this feature, the coolant supply device 32 is capable of reusing the collected coolant. In this case, it is preferable that a filter device (a filter) is disposed between the recovery member and the coolant tank 50.According to this function, a clean coolant can be returned to the coolant tank 50. [Invention derivable from the embodiment]

[0088] The invention, which can be derived from the above-described embodiment and its exemplary modifications, will be described below.

[0089] (1) The first aspect of the invention is the control device (14) for the machine tool (10) including the mist collector (34) configured to collect mist in the machining area (48), the machine tool being configured to machine the workpiece within the machining area, the control device comprising the detection unit (76) configured to detect the type of tool (16) used for machining the workpiece, the determination unit (78) configured to determine whether the operation of the mist collector is permitted or prohibited based on the tool type, and the collector control unit (80) configured to turn on the operation of the mist collector when it is determined that the operation of the mist collector is permitted and turn off the operation of the mist collector when it is determined that the operation of the mist collector is prohibited.

[0090] According to such features, for example, when the workpiece is being machined by a tool used for precision machining, the mist collection by the mist collector can be stopped. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the vibration generated by the mist collector from affecting the machining of the workpiece, thereby suppressing deterioration in machining accuracy.

[0091] (2) The first aspect of the present invention is the control device, wherein the collector control unit can use the determination table (TB) in which type information indicating the type of the tool and state information indicating whether the operation of the mist collector should be permitted or prohibited are linked. According to this feature, it is possible to control the tool to enable or disable the operation of the mist collector.

[0092] (3) The first aspect of the present invention is the control device, wherein the collector control unit can shut down the operation of the mist collector when the type of tool used for precision machining is detected. According to this feature, it is possible to prevent deterioration of machining accuracy during precision machining.

[0093] (4) The first aspect of the present invention is the control device, wherein the detection unit can start detecting the type of tool mounted when the mounting of the tool is detected. According to this feature, it is possible to turn the operation of the mist collector ON or OFF based on the type of tool after the change, even when the tool is changed.

[0094] (5) The first aspect of the present invention is the control device, wherein the collector control unit can determine whether the operation of the mist collector is permitted or prohibited before starting machining of the workpiece. According to this feature, in the case where machining is to be performed using the type of tool for which the operation of the mist collector is prohibited, it is possible to prevent the operation of the mist collector from being turned on in advance before the machining is performed.

[0095] (6) The first aspect of the present invention is the control device, wherein, in the case where the decision is made to allow the operation of the mist collector, the collector control unit can stop the drive of the mist collector after the predetermined period of time has elapsed after the completion of machining of the workpiece. According to this feature, the amount of mist remaining in the machining area after the completion of machining can be reduced, while the power consumption of the mist collector can be prevented from becoming excessive.

[0096] (7) The first aspect of the present invention is the control device, which may further include the alarm output unit (84) configured to output the alarm if an abnormality has occurred in the machine tool, wherein the collector control unit can stop the operation of the mist collector if the alarm is output while the operation of the mist collector is enabled. According to these features, it is possible to prevent further operation of the mist collector in the event of an emergency of the machine tool.

[0097] (8) A second invention is a machine tool (10) including the control device according to the first aspect of the invention. Since the control device according to the first aspect of the present invention is included, it is possible to prevent deterioration of machine accuracy.

[0098] (9) The second aspect of the present invention is the machine tool, which may further include the sub-control device (82) configured to control the mist collector instead of the collector control unit if the control device is stopped. According to this feature, the mist collector can be controlled even if the control device is stopped.

[0099] (10) A third aspect of the invention is the control method for controlling the machine tool by a computer (14), wherein the machine tool includes the mist collector configured to collect mist in the machining area, the machine tool being configured to machine the workpiece within the machining area, the control method comprising the detection step (S1) of detecting the type of tool used to machine the workpiece, the determination step (S2) of determining whether to permit or prohibit the operation of the mist collector based on the tool type, and the collector control step (S3) of turning on the operation of the mist collector in the case where the determination is made to permit the operation of the mist collector and turning off the operation of the mist collector in the case where the determination is made to prohibit the operation of the mist collector.

[0100] In accordance with such features, for example, when the workpiece is being machined by a tool used for precision machining, the mist collection by the mist collector can be stopped. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the vibration generated by the mist collector from affecting the machining of the workpiece, thus avoiding a deterioration in machining accuracy. LIST OF REFERENCE SYMBOLS 10, 101 machine tool 12 Processing device 14, 142 control device 32 Coolant supply device 34 Fog collector 48 Editing area 72 editing program 74 Processing control unit 76 registration unit 78 Determination unit 80 Collector control unit 82 Understeer device 84 Alarm output unit TB determination table QUOTES CONTAINED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents submitted by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the convenience of the reader. This list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] JP 2012-076006 A

[0002]

Claims

[1] A control device (14) for a machine tool (10) having a mist collector (34) configured to collect mist in a machining area (48), the machine tool being configured to machine a workpiece within the machining area, the control device comprising: a detection unit (76) configured to detect a type of tool (16) used to perform machining on the workpiece; a determination unit (78) configured to determine whether operation of the mist collector is permitted or prohibited based on the type of tool; and a collector control unit (80) configured to turn on the operation of the mist collector when it is determined that the operation of the mist collector is permitted and to turn off the operation of the mist collector when it is determined that the operation of the mist collector is prohibited. [2] The control device according to claim 1, wherein the collector control unit uses a determination table (TB) in which type information indicating the type of the tool and state information indicating whether the operation of the mist collector should be permitted or prohibited are linked. [3] The control device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the collector control unit stops the operation of the mist collector when the type of tool used for precision machining has been detected. [4] The control device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the detecting unit starts detecting the type of the tool mounted in a case where the mounting of the tool is detected. [5] The control device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the collector control unit determines whether the operation of the mist collector is permitted or prohibited before starting to process the workpiece. [6] The control device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, in the case where the decision has been made to permit the operation of the mist collector, the collector control unit stops the drive of the mist collector after a predetermined period of time has elapsed from the completion of the machining of the workpiece. [7] The control device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, further comprising an alarm output unit (84) configured to output an alarm when an abnormality has occurred in the machine tool, wherein the collector control unit stops the operation of the mist collector when the alarm is output while the operation of the mist collector is ON. [8] A machine tool comprising the control device according to any one of claims 1 to 7. [9] A machine tool according to claim 8, further comprising a sub-control device (82) configured to control the mist collector instead of the collector control unit when the control device is stopped. [10] A control method for controlling a machine tool by a computer (14), the machine tool comprising a mist collector configured to collect mist in a machining area, the machine tool being configured to machine a workpiece within the machining area, the control method comprising: a detecting step (S1) for detecting a type of tool used to perform machining on the workpiece; a determining step (S2) for determining, based on the tool type, whether operation of the fog collector should be permitted or prohibited; and a collector control step (S3) for turning on the operation of the mist collector in a case where a determination has been made to permit the operation of the mist collector, and for turning off the operation of the mist collector in a case where a determination has been made to prohibit the operation of the mist collector.

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