Processing control device and processing control program

Abstract

The purpose of this disclosure is to reduce the effort required by a user who selectively executes a switching program appropriate to the type of processing machine whenever a processing machine is used. A laser processing control device according to this disclosure controls a processing system for using a processing machine to process a workpiece, wherein the laser processing control device comprises a registration unit, a storage unit, and a switching unit. The registration unit is configured to be able, by operation of a user, to execute a switching program for changing the state of the processing machine between an initial state in which a prescribed operation orThe system registers a state where the workpiece processing operation cannot be carried out and a state of completed preparation in which the prescribed operation or process can be executed. The memory unit stores the registered switching program. The switching unit reads the switching program from the memory unit according to the use of the processing machine and executes it.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to a processing control apparatus that controls a processing system that performs processing. TECHNICAL BACKGROUND

[0002] For example, in processing systems, there is currently one that performs laser processing on a workpiece such as a steel plate by emitting a laser output from a laser oscillator toward the workpiece via a processing nozzle. List of citationsPatent document

[0003] Patent Document 1: Unexamined Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2007-30031 DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION Problems to be solved by the invention

[0004] In an initial state where only a power source is turned on, the laser oscillator is unable to output a laser. Therefore, it has been necessary to perform predetermined start processing to switch the laser oscillator from the initial state to a preparation-completion state in which the laser can be output. However, the start processing may vary depending on the type of laser oscillator. Furthermore, the termination processing for returning the laser oscillator from the preparation-completion state to the initial state may also vary depending on the type of laser oscillator.

[0005] Therefore, it has been necessary to incorporate a programmable logic controller (PLC) into a laser processing control device, and for a user to selectively execute switching programs, such as a start-up program and a stop-up program corresponding to a type of laser oscillator, each time the user starts or stops using the PLC. Furthermore, similar problems may arise with various types of processing machines other than the laser oscillator.

[0006] In view of the situations described above, an object of the present disclosure is to reduce a burden for a user to selectively execute a switching program corresponding to a type of processing machine each time the processing machine is used. Means to solve the problems

[0007] A processing control device according to the present disclosure is a processing control device that controls a processing system that uses a processing machine to process a workpiece, and includes: a registration unit configured to enable registration, by operation of a user, of a switching program for switching a state of the processing machine between an initial state in which a predetermined operation for processing the workpiece cannot be performed and a preparation completion state in which the predetermined operation can be performed; a storage unit that stores the switching program that has been registered; and a switching unit that reads and executes the switching program from the storage unit according to a usage of the processing machine.

[0008] A processing control program according to the present disclosure is a processing control program for causing a computer to function as a processing control device that controls a processing system that uses a processing machine to process a workpiece, and to cause the computer to also act as: a registration unit configured to enable registration, by a user, of a switching program for switching a state of the processing machine between an initial state in which a predetermined operation for processing the workpiece cannot be performed and a preparation completion state in which the predetermined operation can be performed; a storage unit that stores the switching program that has been registered; and a switching unit that reads and executes the switching program from the storage unit according to a usage of the processing machine. Effects of the invention

[0009] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to reduce a burden for a user to selectively execute a switching program corresponding to a type of processing machine every time the processing machine is used. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Fig. 1 is a configuration diagram illustrating a laser processing control apparatus according to a first embodiment; Fig. 2 is a diagram illustrating startup processing according to a comparative example; Fig. 3 is a diagram illustrating startup processing according to the present embodiment; Fig. 4 is a diagram illustrating termination processing according to a comparative example; Fig. 5 is a diagram illustrating termination processing according to the present embodiment; Fig. 6 is a configuration diagram illustrating a laser processing control apparatus according to a second embodiment; Fig. 7 is a diagram illustrating startup processing according to a comparative example; Fig. 8 is a diagram illustrating startup processing according to the present embodiment; Fig. 9 is a diagram illustrating termination processing according to a comparative example; Fig. 10 is a diagram illustrating termination processing according to the present embodiment; Fig. 11 is a configuration diagram illustrating a laser processing control apparatus according to a third embodiment; Fig. 12 is a diagram illustrating startup processing according to a fourth embodiment; and Fig. 13 is a diagram illustrating termination processing. PREFERRED MODE OF OPERATION FOR IMPLEMENTING THE INVENTION

[0010] Here, embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described below. It is possible to make appropriate modifications and implementations without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. [First embodiment]

[0011] Here, a first embodiment will now be described with reference to Fig. 1 to 5. As described in Fig. 1 illustrates that a laser processing control device 70 controls a laser processing system 90. The laser processing system 90 includes an arm 91 of a robot, a processing nozzle 92, and a laser oscillator 95. The arm 91 movably supports the processing nozzle 92. The laser oscillator 95 is coupled to the processing nozzle 92 to input a laser into the processing nozzle 92. The laser input from the laser oscillator 95 is emitted from the processing nozzle 92 toward a workpiece (not shown) to perform laser processing. Specifically, the laser oscillator 95 according to the present embodiment is the Type A laser oscillator 95. Note that Type A can be regarded as a "first type."

[0012] In an initial state where only a power source is turned on, the laser oscillator 95 is unable to output the laser. A state of the laser oscillator 95 in which the laser cannot be output is hereinafter referred to as the "initial state," and a state of the laser oscillator 95 in which the laser can be output is hereinafter referred to as the "preparation completion state." Specifically, the initial state is, for example, a state in which the laser oscillator 95 is unable to output the laser because of a coolant-free state (a state in which no cooler is started) or a power-saving state (a state in which no LD power source is supplied). The preparation completion state is a state in which the laser oscillator 95 is able to output the laser because a coolant is flowing, an internal temperature stabilizes, the power-saving state is released, and laser oscillation occurs.

[0013] A state before the start of laser output from the laser oscillator 95 to the processing nozzle 92 will hereinafter be referred to as "before use of the laser oscillator 95," and a state after the completion of laser output from the laser oscillator 95 to the processing nozzle 92 will hereinafter be referred to as "after use of the laser oscillator 95." Before using the laser oscillator 95, it is necessary to execute predetermined "start processing" to switch the laser oscillator from the initial state to the preparation completion state. After using the laser oscillator 95, it is then necessary to execute predetermined "termination processing" to return the laser oscillator 95 from the preparation completion state to the initial state.

[0014] The laser processing control device 70 in the present embodiment is a robot control device and is configured to mainly include a single computer and a laser processing control program read in the computer. However, instead of this configuration, it may be configured to mainly include a plurality of computers and a laser processing control program including programs read in the plurality of computers, respectively. The computer includes, for example, a CPU, a ROM, a RAM, and a non-volatile memory. The laser processing control program cooperates with the computer to cause the computer to function as the laser processing control device 70.

[0015] The laser processing control device 70 includes a program command unit 23 and a control unit 30. The program command unit 23 is configured to mainly include, for example, the computer, its display, a keyboard, and a mouse. The program command unit 23 is configured, for example, to enable input of a processing program P through a user's operation. Specifically, the program command unit 23 is configured, for example, to enable input of the processing program P using a predetermined programming language such as an NC language, a C language, C++, or Python.

[0016] The control unit 30 is configured to primarily include, for example, the CPU and RAM in the computer. The control unit 30 executes the processing program P input to the program command unit 23 to control the laser processing system 90. The control unit 30 thereby causes the laser processing system 90 to implement laser processing.

[0017] As described above, in the initial state where only the power source is turned on, the laser oscillator 95 is unable to output the laser. Therefore, the laser processing control device 70 further includes an automatic switching unit 75 for switching the state of the laser oscillator 95 between the initial state and the preparation completion state. The automatic switching unit 75 includes a registration unit 24, a type selection unit 25, a storage unit 40, and a switching unit 50.

[0018] The registration unit 24 is configured to mainly include, for example, the computer, its display, the keyboard, and the mouse. The registration unit 24 is configured to enable registration of switching programs P1 and P2 for switching the state of the laser oscillator 95 by user operation for each of types A, B, and C... of the laser oscillators 95. The switching programs P1 and P2 include the "start program P1" for switching the state of the laser oscillator 95 from the initial state to the preparation completion state, and the "termination program P2" for returning the state of the laser oscillator 95 from the preparation state to the initial state.The user is able to input the type of the laser oscillator 95 and the switching programs P1 and P2 corresponding to the type by operating the registration unit 24, and is thereby able to register the switching programs P1 and P2 corresponding to the type of the laser oscillator 95.

[0019] Specifically, in the present embodiment, as described above, the laser processing system 90 includes the A-type laser oscillator 95. Therefore, in the present embodiment, the user inputs at least A-type and a start program P1a and a termination program P2a corresponding to the type through an operation on the registration unit 24. The registration unit 24 is configured to enable input of the switching programs P1 and P2 via the predetermined programming language described above, that is, using a programming language usable when inputting the processing program P to the program command unit 23.

[0020] The storage unit 40 is configured to mainly include parts such as the non-volatile memory in the computer. The storage unit 40 stores the type of the laser oscillator 95 input by the user through the operation of the registration unit 24, and the switching programs P1 and P2 corresponding to the type. Furthermore, in a state in which the laser processing control device 70 is new, that is, for example, in a state of delivery from a factory, the storage unit 40 can store a predetermined type and all or part of the switching programs P1 and P2 corresponding to the type in advance.That is, the storage unit 40 can not only store a desired type and the switching programs P1 and P2 corresponding to the type in advance by a user's operation on the registration unit 24, but also further store a predetermined type and at least part of the switching programs P1 and P2 corresponding to the type by, for example, an operation by a worker in a factory. In this case, in a state before registering the switching programs P1 and P2 by a user's operation on the registration unit 24, the storage unit 40 has already stored at least part of the switching programs P1 and P2 corresponding to the predetermined type of the laser oscillator 95. Therefore, it is possible to reduce a burden for the user to register at least part of the switching programs P1 and P2 corresponding to the predetermined type.

[0021] The type selection unit 25 is configured to mainly include, for example, the computer, its display, the keyboard, and the mouse. The type selection unit 25 is configured to enable selection of a type of the laser oscillator 95 through a user operation. Specifically, in the present embodiment, the user selects type A through an operation on the type selection unit 25.

[0022] The switching unit 50 is configured to mainly include parts including, for example, the CPU and RAM in the computer. The switching unit 50 reads and executes the switching programs P1 and P2 for the selected type according to usage of the laser oscillator 95 based on execution of the processing program P from the storage unit 40. That is, in the present embodiment, the switching programs P1 and P2 for type A are read and executed. Specifically, the switching unit 50 executes the start program P1a for type A before starting laser processing, that is, before using the type A laser oscillator 95. Then, the switching unit 50 executes the termination program P2a for type A after the end of laser processing, that is, after using the type A laser oscillator 95.

[0023] Here, next, a start processing performed in the present embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 2 and Fig. 3. When the laser processing control device 70 is configured as shown in Fig. Since the comparative example illustrated in Figure 2 does not include the automatic switching unit 75, it is necessary to introduce a programmable logic controller (PLC) into the laser processing control device 70 in advance. Then, each time before starting laser processing using the PLC, the user must selectively execute a startup program corresponding to Type A through a programming language such as a ladder.

[0024] In contrast, in the present embodiment, as described above, the automatic switching unit 75 was incorporated, and by means of an operation on the registration unit 24 by the user, the start program P1a for type A was registered and stored in the storage unit 40. Then, by means of an operation on the type selection unit 25 by the user, type A was selected. Therefore, as shown in Fig. 3 illustrates that before starting laser processing based on the processing program P, the switching unit 50 automatically retrieves and executes the start program P1a for type A from the storage unit 40 according to a start request D1 provided by the control unit 30. This automatically executes the start processing for type A.

[0025] Specifically, in the start processing for Type A, the laser processing controller 70 first transmits to the laser oscillator 95 a laser request Da1 for requesting permission to perform control by the laser processing controller 70. Upon receiving the laser request Da1, the laser oscillator 95 grants permission to perform control under a condition that a predetermined prerequisite is satisfied and transmits a laser assignment completion signal Ca2 to the laser processing controller 70. Upon receiving the laser assignment completion signal Ca2, the laser processing controller 70 transmits a laser-ON request Da3 to the laser oscillator 95.Upon receipt of the laser ON request Da3, the laser oscillator 95 switches itself from the initial state to the preparation completion state and transmits a laser ON signal Ca4 to the laser oscillator 95. Upon receipt of the laser ON signal Ca4, the laser processing controller 70 transmits an analog control ON request Da5 for requesting permission to perform analog control by the laser processing controller 70 to the laser oscillator 95. Upon receipt of the analog control ON request Da5, the laser oscillator 95 grants permission to perform analog control under a condition that a predetermined prerequisite is satisfied and transmits an analog control ON signal Ca6 to the laser processing controller 70.-control device 70 and transmits a laser preparation completion signal Ca7 to the laser processing control device 70.

[0026] As described above, the start processing for the type A laser oscillator 95 is completed. Therefore, the user does not need to selectively execute a start program corresponding to type A each time before starting laser processing using a PLC through a programming language such as a ladder.

[0027] After completion of the start processing, the switching unit 50 transmits a start completion notification C1 to the control unit 30. Thereby, the control unit 30 starts using the type A laser oscillator 95 to start laser processing.

[0028] Here, next, termination processing performed in the present embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 4 and Fig. 5. When the laser processing control device 70 is configured as shown in Fig. Since the comparative example illustrated in Fig. 4 does not include the automatic switching unit 75, it is necessary to introduce a PLC into the laser processing control device 70 in advance. Then, each time after the laser processing is completed, the user needs to selectively execute a termination program corresponding to Type A using the PLC through a programming language such as a ladder.

[0029] In contrast, in the present embodiment, as in Fig. 5 illustrates that after the laser processing based on the processing program P is completed, the switching unit 50 automatically retrieves and executes the termination program P2a for type A from the storage unit 40 according to a termination request D2 provided by the control unit 30. Thus, the termination processing for type A is automatically executed.

[0030] Specifically, in the termination processing for Type A, the laser processing controller 70 first turns OFF the analog control ON request Da5. Based on this setting, the laser oscillator 95 turns OFF the laser preparation completion signal Ca7, cancels the granted permission to perform analog control, and turns OFF the analog control ON signal Ca6. After that, the laser processing controller 70 turns OFF the laser ON request Da3. Based on this setting, the laser processing controller 70 turns OFF the laser ON signal Ca4. After that, the laser processing controller 70 turns OFF the laser request Da1. Based on this setting, the laser processing controller 70 turns OFF the laser assignment completion signal Ca2.

[0031] As described above, the termination processing for the type A laser oscillator 95 is completed. Therefore, the user does not need to selectively execute a termination program corresponding to type A each time after the end of the laser processing using a PLC through a programming language such as a ladder.

[0032] After completion of the termination processing, the switching unit 50 transmits a termination completion notification C2 to the control unit 30. Thereby, the control unit 30 starts the next processing based on the processing program P.

[0033] As described above, in the present embodiment, the start program P1a for type A is automatically implemented before the implementation of laser processing based on the processing program P, and the termination program P2a for type A is automatically implemented after the implementation of laser processing based on the processing program P.

[0034] Furthermore, in addition to before and after the implementation of laser processing based on the processing program P, for example, in the cases described below, the switching unit 50 reads and executes the switching programs P1 and P2 from the storage unit 40. That is, when laser processing is interrupted due to an emergency stop or when laser processing is interrupted due to a command other than a command based on a processing program, the switching unit 50 reads and executes the termination program P2a corresponding to the selected type A from the storage unit 40. Then, when laser processing is to be restarted after the laser processing is interrupted, the switching unit 50 reads and executes the start program P1a corresponding to the selected type A from the storage unit 40.

[0035] However, even in one of the situations where the startup program P1a should be implemented, as described above, the switching unit 50 skips execution of the startup program P1 during a laser processing inhibition period in which an operation was performed based on which laser processing should be inhibited. The laser processing inhibition period includes, for example, a teaching mode period during which the user teaches the laser processing system 90 an operation.

[0036] The configuration and effects of the present embodiment will now be summarized below.

[0037] The registration unit 24 is configured to enable registration of the switching programs P1 and P2 for switching the state of the laser oscillator 95 through a user operation. According to the usage of the laser oscillator 95, the switching unit 50 reads the registered switching programs P1 and P2 from the storage unit 40 and executes them. Therefore, it is not necessary to prepare a PLC for switching the state of the laser oscillator 95.

[0038] Specifically, before using the type-A laser oscillator 95, the switching unit 50 reads and executes the startup program P1a corresponding to the type-A from the storage unit 40. Therefore, the user does not need to selectively execute a startup program corresponding to the type-A each time before using the laser oscillator 95 using a PLC through a programming language such as a ladder.

[0039] Furthermore, after using the laser oscillator 95, the switching unit 50 reads and executes the termination program P2a corresponding to type A from the storage unit 40. Therefore, after using the laser oscillator 95, the user does not need to selectively execute a termination program corresponding to type A using a PLC and a programming language such as a ladder.

[0040] The registration unit 24 is configured to enable registration of the switching programs P1 and P2 for each of types A, B, and C... of the laser oscillators 95. The switching unit 50 reads the switching programs P1 and P2 corresponding to a type selected by the user through an operation on the type selection unit 25 from the storage unit 40 and executes them. Therefore, even if it is assumed that multiple types (A, B, and C...) of the laser oscillators 95 are used, this can be handled.

[0041] The switching unit 50 reads and executes the switching programs P1 and P2 from the storage unit 40 according to the use of the laser oscillator 95 based on the execution of the processing program P. Therefore, it is possible to execute the start program P1 and the termination program P2 synchronously with the processing program P and at efficient and convenient timings.

[0042] The registration unit 24 is configured to enable input of the switching programs P1 and P2 via a programming language that enables input of the processing program P into the program command unit 23. Therefore, even if it is impossible for the user to use a programming language for a PLC such as a ladder, the user is able to respond to such a case.

[0043] When laser processing is interrupted, the switching unit 50 reads the termination program P2 from the storage unit 40 and executes it. Therefore, when laser processing is interrupted, it is possible to immediately stop the laser oscillator 95.

[0044] When laser processing is to be restarted after laser processing has been interrupted, the switching unit 50 reads and executes the startup program P1 from the storage unit 40. Therefore, when laser processing is to be restarted, it is possible to start the laser oscillator 95 immediately.

[0045] During a laser processing prohibition period in which an operation is performed based on which laser processing should be prohibited, the switching unit 50 skips execution of the startup program P1. Therefore, the laser processing system 90 itself is inadvertently unable to emit lasers, making it possible to further ensure safety.

[0046] Specifically, the laser processing lock period includes a period during which a teaching mode is selected, under which the user teaches an operation to the laser processing system 90. Therefore, it is possible to further ensure safety under the teaching mode.

[0047] Through the cooperation between the computer and the laser processing control program in the present embodiment, the computer is enabled to function as the program command unit 23 and the control unit 30, and also as the automatic switching unit 75. That is, the computer is enabled to function as the laser processing control device 70 according to the present embodiment. Therefore, it is possible to use the computer to implement the present embodiment. [Second embodiment]

[0048] Here, next, a second embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 6 to 10. For the embodiment described below, the description is based on the first embodiment, but the main focus is on those aspects that differ from the first embodiment. Descriptions of those that are identical or analogous to the first embodiment are therefore conveniently omitted.

[0049] In the present embodiment, as shown in Fig. 6, the laser processing system 90 illustrates the type B laser oscillator 95 instead of the type A laser oscillator 95 illustrated in the first embodiment. Therefore, in the present embodiment, the user selects type B by operating the type selection unit 25. Note that type B may be regarded as a "second type."

[0050] Here, next, a start processing performed in the present embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 7 and Fig. 8. When the laser processing control device 70 is configured as shown in Fig. Since the comparative example illustrated in Figure 7 does not include the automatic switching unit 75, it is necessary to introduce a PLC in advance. Then, each time before starting laser processing using the PLC, the user must selectively execute a startup program corresponding to Type B through a programming language such as Ladder.

[0051] In contrast, in the present embodiment, as in Fig. 8 illustrates that, before starting laser processing based on the processing program P, the switching unit 50 automatically retrieves and executes a start program P1b for type B from the storage unit 40 according to a start request D1 provided by the control unit 30. This automatically executes the start processing for type B.

[0052] Specifically, in the start processing for type B, the laser oscillator 95 first transmits a power supply on signal Cb1 indicating that the power supply is on to the laser processing controller 70. Upon receiving the power supply on signal Cb1, the laser processing controller 70 transmits a standby request Db2 to the laser oscillator 95. Upon receiving the standby request Db2, the laser oscillator 95 switches itself from the initial state to the preparation completion state and transmits a laser ready OK signal Cb3 and a standby OK signal Cb4 to the laser processing controller 70. Upon receiving the laser ready OK signal Cb3 and the standby OK signal Cb4, the laser processing controller 70 transmits an analog control request Db5 for requesting permission to Carrying out a control orControl by the laser processing controller 70 to the laser oscillator 95. Upon receiving the analog control request Db5, the laser oscillator 95 grants permission to perform control under a condition that a predetermined prerequisite is satisfied and transmits a laser-ON signal Cb6 to the laser processing controller 70.

[0053] As described above, the start processing for the B-type laser oscillator 95 is completed. Therefore, the user does not need to selectively execute a start program corresponding to B-type each time before starting laser processing using a PLC through a programming language such as a ladder.

[0054] Here, next, termination processing performed in the present embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 9 and Fig. 10. When the laser processing control device 70 is configured as shown in Fig. Since the comparative example illustrated in Figure 9 does not include the automatic switching unit 75, it is necessary to introduce a PLC in advance. Then, each time after the laser processing is completed, the user must selectively execute a termination program corresponding to Type B using the PLC through a programming language such as Ladder.

[0055] In contrast, in the present embodiment, as in Fig. 10 illustrates that after the laser processing is completed based on the processing program P, the switching unit 50 automatically retrieves and executes a termination program P2b for type B from the storage unit 40 according to a termination request D2 provided by the control unit 30. Thus, the termination processing for type B is automatically executed.

[0056] Specifically, in the termination processing for Type B, the laser processing controller 70 first turns OFF the analog control request Db5. Based on this setting, the laser oscillator 95 turns OFF the laser ON signal Cb6. Thereafter, the laser processing controller 70 turns OFF the standby request Db2. Based on this setting, the laser oscillator 95 sequentially turns OFF the standby OK signal Cb4, the laser ready OK signal Cb3, and the power supply ON signal Cb1. In the present embodiment, as described above, the termination processing different from that in the first embodiment is implemented.

[0057] As described above, the termination processing for the B-type laser oscillator 95 is completed. Therefore, the user does not need to selectively execute a termination program corresponding to B-type every time after the end of the laser processing using a PLC through a programming language such as a ladder.

[0058] According to the present embodiment, as described above, it is possible to obtain effects analogous to those according to the first embodiment when the laser oscillator 95 is of type B. [Third Embodiment]

[0059] Here, next, a third embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 11. In the present embodiment, the laser processing system 90 further includes the B-type laser oscillator 95 illustrated in the second embodiment in addition to the A-type laser oscillator 95 illustrated in the first embodiment. Then, the processing nozzle 92 is configured to allow emission of either a laser provided by the A-type laser oscillator 95 or a laser provided by the B-type laser oscillator 95 to be selectively input. Note that while two laser oscillators 95 and 95 are coupled to one processing nozzle 92 in the diagram, separate processing nozzles 92 may be provided for the laser oscillators 95 and 95, respectively.

[0060] That is, the laser processing control device 70 according to the present embodiment uses the type A laser oscillator 95 and the type B laser oscillator 95 separately, for example, depending on the purpose. Therefore, the type selection unit 25 is configured to enable selection of a plurality of types as the types of the laser oscillators 95 to be used. Specifically, in the present embodiment, by operating the type selection unit 25, the user selects type A as one type of the laser oscillator 95 to be used and selects type B as another type of the laser oscillator 95 to be used.

[0061] In this case, the switching unit 50 reads and implements the start program P1a for type A before using the type A laser oscillator 95 based on the implementation of the processing program P from the storage unit 40, and reads and implements the termination program P2a for type A after using the type A laser oscillator 95 from the storage unit 40. Then, the switching unit 50 reads and implements the start program P1b for type B before using the type B laser oscillator 95 based on the implementation of the processing program P from the storage unit 40, and reads and implements the termination program P2b for type B after using the type B laser oscillator 95 from the storage unit 40.

[0062] According to the present embodiment, as described above, the switching unit 50 reads and executes the switching programs P1a and P2a corresponding to type A according to the use of the type A laser oscillator 95 based on the execution of the processing program P from the storage unit 40. Then, the switching unit 50 reads and executes the switching programs P1b and P2b corresponding to type B according to the use of the type B laser oscillator 95 based on the execution of the processing program P from the storage unit 40. Therefore, even if it is desired that a plurality of the laser oscillators 95 be used in a switched manner, the present embodiment makes it possible to respond to such a case. [Fourth Embodiment]

[0063] Here, a fourth embodiment will now be described with reference to Fig. 12 and Fig. 13. In the present embodiment, instead of the laser processing system, a coating system that performs coating on a workpiece is provided, and instead of the laser processing control device 70, a coating control device 70d that controls the coating system is provided.

[0064] The coating system includes a type α coating device 95d. Therefore, in the present embodiment, the user selects type α by operating the type selection unit.

[0065] Here, next, a start processing performed in the present embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 12. Before starting a coating job based on the processing program P, the switching unit 50 automatically reads a start program P1d for type α from the storage unit according to a start request D1 provided by the control unit 30 and executes it. This automatically executes the start processing for type α.

[0066] Specifically, in the start processing for type α, the coating control device 70d first transmits to the coating device 95d a valve control ON request Dd1 for requesting permission to perform control of a valve of the coating device 95d by the coating control device 70d. Upon receiving the valve control ON request Dd1, the coating device 95d grants permission to perform valve control under a condition that a predetermined prerequisite is satisfied and transmits a valve control ON signal Cd2 to the coating control device 70d. Upon receiving the valve control ON signal Cd2, the coating control device 70d transmits a sealing material filling request Dd3 to the coating device 95d.Upon receiving the sealing material filling request Dd3, the coating device 95d fills a sealing material and transmits a sealing material filling completion signal Cd4 to the coating control device 70d. Upon receiving the sealing material filling completion signal Cd4, the coating control device 70d transmits a preparation pressure request Dd5 to the coating device 95d. Upon receiving the preparation pressure request Dd5, the coating device 95d causes an internal pressure to increase and transmits a preparation pressure completion signal Cd6 to the coating control device 70d.

[0067] As described above, the startup processing for the coating device 95d is completed for type α. Therefore, the user does not need to selectively execute a startup program corresponding to type α each time before starting coating using a PLC through a programming language such as Ladder. After the startup processing is completed, the switching unit 50 transmits a startup completion notification C1 to the control unit 30.

[0068] Here, next, termination processing performed in the present embodiment will be described with reference to Fig.13. After the coating is completed based on the processing program P, the switching unit 50 automatically reads and executes a termination program P2d for type α from the storage unit according to a termination request D2 provided by the control unit 30. Thus, the termination processing for type α is automatically executed.

[0069] Specifically, in the termination processing for type α, the coating controller 70d first turns off the preparation pressure request Dd5. Based on this setting, the coating controller 95d lowers the internal pressure and turns off the preparation pressure completion signal Cd6. After that, the coating controller 70d turns off the valve control ON request Dd1. Based on this setting, the coating controller 95d cancels the granted permission to perform valve control and turns off the valve control ON signal Cd2.

[0070] As described above, the termination processing for the coating device 95d for type α is completed. Therefore, the user does not need to selectively execute a termination program corresponding to type α each time after the coating is completed using a PLC through a programming language such as Ladder. After the termination processing is completed, the switching unit 50 transmits a termination completion notification C2 to the control unit 30.

[0071] According to the present embodiment, as described above, it is possible to obtain effects analogous to those according to the first embodiment when the processing system is a coating system and the processing machine is the coating device 95d. [Other embodiments]

[0072] It is possible to modify the above-described embodiments, for example, as described below. Only one of the start program P1 and the end program P2 can be registered by an operation on the registration unit 24. Processing corresponding to the other can be performed using a PLC, as in the cases of the comparative examples.

[0073] Instead of selecting a type of laser oscillator 95 by a user operation on the type selection unit 25, the switching unit 50 can automatically detect a type of laser oscillator 95 coupled to the processing nozzle 92 based on, for example, a coupling situation, and execute the switching programs P1 and P2 corresponding to the detected type. With this configuration, it is possible to reduce the user's effort for selecting a type of laser oscillator 95 by an operation on the type selection unit 25.

[0074] The processing system, which was the laser processing system in the first to third embodiments and the coating system in the fourth embodiment, may be a system that performs or includes other types of processing. Examples of the other types of processing include processing other than laser processing, such as cutting, pressing, drawing, heating, and pressurizing to partially ablate, cut, break, deform, or modify a workpiece, and processing other than coating to add an attachment to a workpiece. List of reference symbols 24 Registration unit 25 Type selection unit 30 Control or regulation unit 40 storage units 50 switching unit 70 Laser processing control or regulation device 70d Coating control or regulation device 90 Laser processing system 95 laser oscillator 95d coating device P processing program P1 startup program P2 Termination Program S1 initial state S2 preparation completion state 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 2007-30031

[0003]

Claims

[1] A processing control device that controls a processing system using a processing machine to process a workpiece, the processing control device comprising: a registration unit configured to enable registration, by operation of a user, of a switching program for switching a state of the processing machine between an initial state in which a predetermined operation for processing the workpiece cannot be performed and a preparation completion state in which the predetermined operation can be performed; a storage unit that stores the switching program that has been registered; and a switching unit that reads and executes the switching program from the storage unit according to a usage of the processing machine. [2] A processing control device according to claim 1, wherein the processing machine is a laser oscillator, the processing system is a laser processing system that uses a laser output from the laser oscillator to perform laser processing on the workpiece, the initial state is a state in which the laser cannot be output, and the preparation completion state is a state in which the laser can be output. [3] A processing control device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the switching program includes a start program for switching the state of the processing machine from the initial state to the preparation completion state, and the switching unit reads and executes the start program from the storage unit before using the processing machine. [4] A processing control device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the switching program includes a termination program for switching the state of the processing machine from the preparation completion state to the initial state, and the switching unit reads and executes the termination program from the storage unit after use of the processing engine. [5] A processing control device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the switching program includes a start program for switching the state of the processing machine from the initial state to the preparation completion state and a termination program for switching the state of the processing machine from the preparation completion state to the initial state, and the switching unit reads and executes the start program from the storage unit before using the processing engine and reads and executes the termination program from the storage unit after using the processing engine. [6] A processing control device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the registration unit is configured to enable registration of the switching program for each type of processing machine, a type selection unit configured to enable a selection, by the user, of a type of processing machine is further included, and the switching unit reads and executes the switching program corresponding to the type selected by the type selection unit from the storage unit. [7] A processing control device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, further comprising: a program command unit configured to enable input of a processing program by means of a user operation; and a control unit that controls the processing system based on the processing program that has been input, wherein the switching unit reads and executes the switching program from the storage unit according to the usage of the processing machine based on an execution of the processing program. [8] The processing control apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the registration unit is configured to enable input of the switching program via a programming language that can be used when inputting the processing program to the program command unit. [9] A processing control device according to claim 7 or 8, wherein the storage unit stores the switching program corresponding to a first type and the switching program corresponding to a second type different from the first type, the processing machine which is the first type and the processing machine which is the second type are used by executing the processing program, and the switching unit reads and executes the switching program corresponding to the first type according to a use of the processing machine which is the first type based on an execution of the processing program from the storage unit, and reads and executes the switching program corresponding to the second type according to a use of the processing machine which is the second type based on an execution of the processing program from the storage unit. [10] A processing control device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the switching program includes a termination program for switching the state of the processing machine from the preparation completion state to the initial state, and the switching unit reads and executes the termination program from the storage unit when processing has been interrupted or terminated. [11] Processing control device according to one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the switching program includes a start program for switching the state of the processing machine from the initial state to the preparation completion state, and the switching unit reads and executes the start program from the storage unit when processing is to be restarted after processing has been interrupted. [12] Processing control device according to one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the switching program includes a start program for switching the state of the processing machine from the initial state to the preparation completion state, and the switching unit skips execution of the start program during a processing lock period in which an operation was performed based on which processing should be locked. [13] A processing control apparatus according to claim 12, wherein the processing inhibition period includes a teaching mode period under which the user teaches an operation to the processing system. [14] A processing control apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein, in a state before the switching program is registered by means of an operation on the registration unit by the user, the storage unit stores at least a part of the switching program corresponding to a predetermined type of the processing machine. [15] A processing control program for causing a computer to function as a processing control device that controls a processing system that uses a processing machine to process a workpiece, and for causing the computer to further function as units comprising 5: a registration unit configured to enable registration, by a user, of a switching program for switching a state of the processing machine between an initial state in which a predetermined operation for processing the workpiece cannot be performed and a preparation completion state in which the predetermined operation can be performed; a storage unit that stores the switching program that has been registered; and a switching unit that reads and executes the switching program from the storage unit according to a usage of the processing machine.

Images