Method for proving tool data records for machining tools

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for providing tool data records with respect to machining tools, comprising the following steps: - providing a global database for receiving the tool data records, - adding tool information to the tool data records by users and / or manufacturers of the machining tools, - validating at least one tool data record with respect to a certain machining tool using a comparison of a number of tool information items with respect to at least one comparable parameter of the tool.

Description

[0001] Procedure for providing tool data sets for machining tools

[0002] The invention relates to a method for providing tool data sets for machining tools.

[0003] Today's production processes in the metal-cutting industry predominantly utilize CNC-controlled machines, which are achieving an ever-increasing degree of automation. The automated process relies on tool data records stored on a storage medium for individual machining tools used in the machine tool, such as turning tools, cutting heads with inserts, or milling heads. The tool data records are at least partially provided by the tool suppliers or can be retrieved directly from the manufacturer in the form of data sheets.

[0004] German patent application DE 10 2018 111 547 A1 describes a corresponding method for using tool data records in an automated process of a CNC machine tool. After delivery and unique identification of the tool by the CNC machine tool, a tool data record uniquely assigned to the tool and stored on a storage medium is transmitted from the tool to the machine tool. The form and number of parameters provided for the individual tools vary considerably, depending on the manufacturer and / or supplier of the tool used, and often include different, i.e., ambiguous, designations for a tool parameter and / or are not up to date. This has the disadvantage that maintaining the tool data records is very time-consuming.

[0005] German patent application DE 10 2016 219 371 A1 discloses a system for sharing device-related data with a database used for global storage of tool data sets. This allows tool data sets, in particular machine parameters, from different processing machines, such as CNC machine tools, to be transmitted to the database and from the database to the processing machines, thus allowing a single tool data set to be used by multiple machines.

[0006] Before saving the transmitted tool data records to the global database, a check is performed to determine whether a tool data record already exists for the uniquely identifiable tool transmitted with the tool data. This prevents duplicate entries in the database. This has the disadvantage that potentially missing parameters in the already saved tool data record for the tool are not added, and the tool data records stored in the database are not checked for accuracy, which could result in incorrect parameters being transferred to other processing machines via the database.

[0007] The object of the present invention is to provide a method which eliminates the disadvantages of the prior art described above.

[0008] This object is achieved by a method having the features of independent claim 1. The subclaims relate to advantageous developments and variants of the invention.

[0009] A method according to the invention for providing tool data sets for machining tools comprises the following steps

[0010] - Provision of a global database to store tool records.

[0011] - Addition of tool information to the tool records by a user and / or a tool manufacturer.

[0012] - Validation of at least one tool data set for a specific machining tool based on a comparison of a plurality of tool information items for at least one comparable parameter of this machining tool.

[0013] Tool data sets are standardized in ISO 13399 and DIN 4000 / 4001 and include tool information in the form of individual physical parameters, such as the nominal diameter of a milling head, as well as two-dimensional and three-dimensional digital data models of the machining tool, which are also referred to as digital twins.

[0014] The tool information can be added by the user and / or manufacturer both manually and via an automated process.

[0015] The validation of a tool data set is based on the comparison of multiple inputs of identical tool information (parameters) belonging to a uniquely identified tool data set. For example, user A can enter the nominal diameter of a tool, such as a milling head, with a unique identifier WK. Another user B can also enter the nominal diameter of the milling head for the same tool with the identifier WK. Based on these two independent inputs of the nominal diameter of the milling head (identical tool information) for the same tool, which is uniquely identifiable by the identifier WK, the nominal diameter of the milling head is validated.The greater the number of independently entered values ​​for a piece of tool information (nominal diameter of the milling head), the greater the basis for validation and thus the integrity of the value stored in the global database for this tool information. Validation is explained in more detail below. Data integrity testing can be described as ensuring the correctness (incorrectness) of data and the correct functioning of systems.

[0016] The definition of a tool data set within the meaning of the invention also includes tool information that is useful for using the machining tool in machine tools, such as cutting speeds or tool life. This tool information can be based, for example, on the user's experience when using the machining tools and can expediently be specified in relation to the machine tool used and / or the material being machined. A user within the meaning of the invention can be a company with several employees referred to as individual users, a manufacturer and / or a supplier of tools, or alternatively, an individual.Further tool information for a machining tool with a uniquely identifiable tool data set can include the detailed machine parameters used for the machining tool, such as speed, feed, infeed, or any other machine parameter used. The machine parameters are recorded in relation to a uniquely identifiable machining center, which is also part of the tool data set.

[0017] In addition, information corresponding to the machine parameters regarding the material (material data) of the machined component, such as the material name, additives contained therein, or physical properties such as the modulus of elasticity, can be added to the tool data set as tool information. The unique identification of the machining tool and thus a corresponding tool data set is essential for the assignment of the tool information and the resulting data validation.

[0018] Regardless of the origin of the tool information for the tool data sets, especially the machine parameters and material data, the tool data sets can be stored in the global database independently of the machine. Only when the tool data set is optionally assigned to a specific processing machine can the tool information be adapted with specific values ​​for the machine and / or the tool itself. When the tool data sets are assigned to a specific processing machine, the tool information usually stored in a separate measuring device to determine the current condition of the tool, such as the reduced diameter of a milling head due to wear, can also be transmitted to the processing machine.Optionally, the tool information from the measuring device and the tool information from the database can also be merged before transmission to the processing machine. For example, instead of the nominal diameter of the milling head, only the value for the diameter of the milling head determined in the measuring device and relevant to the processing machine is transmitted to the processing machine. Furthermore, at least parts of the tool data sets can be transmitted to users for use in the design and / or production of components.

[0019] In particular, at least part of a tool data set can be transmitted directly to a user-defined processing machine and / or a CNC program for a processing machine for use in the production of components. "Directly" in the context of the invention means that a connection and / or interface for transferring the data between the database and the processing machine is available.

[0020] Validating the data within the scope of the method according to the invention before use in a processing machine prevents the use of incorrect data, regardless of whether the data is transferred directly to the processing machine and / or a CNC program or loaded from the database by a user. The use of validated data therefore leads to a reduction in scrap, particularly when setting up or equipping a processing machine for a new component and / or adapting the processing machine from one component to another, which has a positive effect on setup times during component production. Reducing scrap and setup times can advantageously reduce production costs.

[0021] When at least part of the tool data set is transmitted to a user, information on the status of the validation of the tool data set can be transmitted. The individual parameters of the tool data sets can be validated using the tool information entered by the user. This status or the quality of the validation can be transmitted so that the user can carry out a risk assessment for the use of the data based on the status. It is also conceivable that, in addition to the quality of the validation, the collaboration of certain users who are characterized by particularly high quality in the tool information entered is also transmitted. The status of the validation therefore includes the integrity of the data, whereby, in addition to the purely mathematical comparisons of the data, the origin of the data can also be included in the integrity.Data integrity advantageously supports the use and exchange of experience between the various users of the provided tool data sets. The origin of the tool information in the tool data sets, which is taken into account in the integrity, can also be used, for example, as a trigger for the automatic transfer of a tool data set, or at least parts of it, directly into a processing machine and / or a CNC program controlling the processing machine.

[0022] In the sense of the invention, automatic means that data is at least suggested to a user for transmission by the program, either during transmission from a processing machine and / or a CNC program to the database or during transmission from the database to the processing machine and / or the CNC program, or is transmitted directly, i.e. without active consent from the user.

[0023] The trigger can also be personalized, for example, so that each user can determine the trigger threshold themselves. For example, different plants within a company can classify parts of a tool data set that have already been successfully used by one of the plants as trustworthy. A second company, on the other hand, would not classify these tool data sets as trustworthy per se.

[0024] In particular, the user can use a local database with an interface to the global database for adding and / or transmitting data. The operator of the global database can, for example, provide a company (user) with a local database in which the company can primarily maintain the tool data records used by the company. Manufacturers and / or suppliers, on the other hand, will preferably provide tool information for the tool data records of the tools they manufacture or distribute. This can be added directly to the global database. Alternatively, the manufacturer / supplier can also use a local database. This is particularly advantageous if the validated tool data records are also made available to the manufacturer and / or supplier, depending on the contract, for example, for forwarding to their customers.An individual who only occasionally requires the addition of tool information and the transmission of at least parts of the tool data sets can, as an alternative to a company, directly access only a predetermined area of ​​the global database. Furthermore, a direct connection between the global database and a machine tool can be established, so that the machine tool, after identifying the machining tool, can directly access the parameters relevant for production from the tool data set.

[0025] According to the invention, tool information entered into the local database by the user can be automatically transmitted to the global database, making new tool information immediately available to the global database for validating the tool data sets. This approach, also known as swarm intelligence, in which the information is used by a large number of users, can advantageously increase the quality of the tool data sets through the large number of tool information entered by different users. Alternatively, the transmission of the tool information can also be initiated actively, for example, by pressing a button on a user interface.

[0026] In a further embodiment of the invention, tool information, in particular the machine parameters used when using the tool, can be automatically transmitted from a processing machine and / or from a CNC program for a processing machine to the global database. This has the advantage that the usual manual entry of data into the local tool database is no longer necessary, which can prevent, for example, input errors. To improve data quality, the automatic transfer can be linked, for example, to the release of the processing machine's CNC program, which only occurs after successful application.

[0027] In addition, the tool data records available in a local database can be at least partially updated with updated tool data records from the global database following an active request and / or approval. The transmission of at least parts of the tool data records from the global database to the local database can therefore be initiated by the user by actively requesting new or updated tool data records for a specific tool. In particular, predetermined tool information from the tool data record can be requested or transmitted simply by a selection by the user. This means that, in particular, certain tool information, such as cutting speeds, cannot be overwritten by the user when using the tools with the values ​​stored in the global database.Alternatively, each tool record retrieved from a local database can be automatically compared with the tool record in the global database, and if new tool information is available in the global database, the user can be notified that new tool information is available. The user can then actively approve or reject an update of the tool information. In principle, an automatic update of the tool records from the global database to the local database at predetermined intervals is also conceivable, although this does not seem practical for the reasons mentioned above.

[0028] Furthermore, a discrepancy between entered tool information and previously validated data in the global database, identified during validation, can trigger a follow-up action. If a discrepancy in the entered data is detected, a notification, particularly an automatic notification, can be sent to the user entering the data. This can prevent potential damage to the user caused by using the incorrect tool information. A subsequent comparison of the data and / or an exchange with the user leads to a further improvement in the quality of the existing data and thus its integrity.

[0029] In particular, tool manufacturers can be offered the verification of their tool data by comparing the manufacturer's existing database with the global database or by validating the data when it is entered into the global database as a service.

[0030] The method therefore has the advantage that a user can access tool data sets that have already been validated by entering tool information or tool data sets from other users and, in turn, enter their own tool data sets, thereby contributing to the validation of existing and / or the expansion and supplementation of tool data sets for other users. By providing validated data, in particular the automatic provision, the method prevents input errors caused by manual input, which is still common today. On the other hand, the synergy effect of the swarm intelligence explained above is used both to improve data quality and integrity and to reduce the effort required to generate tool data sets, which can have a positive impact on production costs.

[0031] The procedure therefore increases the security when using tool data sets and can contribute to reducing production costs.

[0032] The global database can, for example, be located on a platform hosted on a server. Users can access the platform directly, for example, via a web service or another user interface. This local database solution, which is usually chosen for companies, has the advantage that all employees of the company have user access to the local database. User identities can, if necessary, be assigned to the entered tool information within the local database, making this information visible to other users of the local database. In both cases, tool information can be entered via a desktop or mobile application or another user interface.

[0033] Alternatively, access to the global or a local database can also be dependent on a user-selectable usage agreement. This agreement can include a recurring or one-time payment, or can be established and / or limited through user registration or other parameters, which are explained in more detail below. Registration can, for example, have the advantage of preventing or at least minimizing misuse of the local or global database through deliberate false entries. In the event that the global database is operated, for example, by a supplier of processing tools, also referred to simply as a tool, access to the global database or at least to certain functions of the global database or the provision of a local database can also be made available only to the supplier's customers.In the case of the local databases described above, user access can be determined by the user. Users enter the tool information they have about a tool they are using into an input mask. The input mask can, for example, specify the entry of certain standard tool dimensions and also include freely selectable parameters. It can also be defined for each tool which mandatory parameters and / or which minimum number of parameters must be entered in order to make it possible to enter a data record into the database. A mandatory parameter can, in particular, be a unique identification number for the tool, such as the tool number assigned by the manufacturer or supplier.To simplify input, selection lists for each mandatory parameter can be included in the input mask, or after entering one of the mandatory parameters, the user can select further mandatory parameters from a series of suggested values. A mandatory parameter can, for example, be the nominal diameter of a milling head. The database expediently specifies a standardized form for entering and storing data records and also assigns a unique identification number for a tool, which uniquely identifies the tool. Alternatively, a tool can be uniquely defined by a specific mandatory parameter, such as the diameter, length, or material of a drill, to name just a few of the mandatory parameters possible for a unique definition.When entering tool data sets, different values ​​may occur for a parameter, such as the nominal diameter of a milling head. During validation, a validated value can be determined for each parameter based on multiple tool data sets entered for a tool, which is sensibly standardized as explained above. In a further embodiment of the invention, validation can be performed based on matching parameters for a piece of tool information in a tool data set. In this case, all data added to a piece of tool information by different users directly to the global database or indirectly via the local database can be used.

[0034] Furthermore, the validation can be carried out based on a plausibility criterion, whereby outliers in the data are detected and not further taken into account when validating tool information.

[0035] In particular, the plausibility criterion can be implemented as a threshold value. The threshold can, for example, be the maximum deviation of an entered value from the mean of all entered values.

[0036] The threshold value can also be a percentage. This way, a statement about quality can be made based on a probability with a confidence interval, both of which can be specified as a percentage. Furthermore, an accidental incorrect entry can also be detected as such and corrected. For example, if the nominal diameter is 50 for 99 out of 100 tool data records entered, and 49 for one tool data record, the probability that this value is correct and needs to be taken into account during validation is extremely low. A percentage threshold could, for example, be defined such that if a parameter matches in 80% of the entered tool data records, the value is considered 100% validated. Gradations of the degree of validation are also conceivable.

[0037] In a further embodiment of the invention, the validation can be carried out based on an algorithm. The algorithm can, for example, determine information about the status or quality of the tool information to be validated based on the number of entered tool information items and other parameters determined from the entered tool information. In particular, the algorithm can be executed computer-based. The validation of the tool data records by the algorithm can thus be carried out automatically or almost automatically. In particular, in conjunction with the automatic transmission of the tool information entered in the local databases to the global database explained above, the quality of the tool data records improves automatically and continuously with a growing number of users.

[0038] As mentioned above, validation is based on comparing multiple pieces of tool information (nominal diameter of the milling head). Depending on the type of tool information, different mathematical methods can be used to validate the tool information. Both individual values ​​and ranges can be specified as tool information. Ranges are particularly useful for the machine parameters corresponding to the tool, as described above, where, for example, a speed range can be specified. In addition, tolerances can also be specified for some material information, so that, for example, a nominal value is stored in the database which has a tolerance. Examples of this are feed and spindle speed for a specific tool / material combination, or the relationship between feed and spindle speed.

[0039] Furthermore, the tool information can include empirical values ​​gained by users from using the machining tools and / or machine tools. This empirical value can include, for example, the tool life of the machining tool or preferred machine tool settings for a machining tool when machining specific materials. This has the advantage that the users of the database can benefit from the experiences of other users of the database. Conveniently, the empirical values ​​for the respective machining tools can only be entered together in connection with the machine tool used and / or the material being machined. This enables a concrete assignment of the empirical values ​​to specific machine tools and machined materials, which other users or, in the case of a company, users can access.In particular, users of specific tools can be identified by other users. This means, for example, that users of standard tools can be identified by other users of the database. This allows for exchanges between users and enables bilateral exchanges between two users. Users of special tools, on the other hand, cannot be identified for reasons of confidentiality.

[0040] In addition, tool users can be identifiable for specific users. Depending on the status assigned to the specific user, which will be explained in more detail below, this user can identify other users who, for example, have a different status.

[0041] In a further embodiment of the invention, an overall configuration of a corresponding machine tool can be suggested based on a tool selected by a user. This has the advantage that a user of the local database for a machine tool can use data entered by other users and validated by the algorithm. This can advantageously reduce production costs by reducing the number of test parts and shortening the programming time for the CNC program.

[0042] In particular, the user can select the corresponding machine tool from a selection of available machine tools. The machine tools offered, for example, in the input mask can be based on the tool information entered by the user and on the empirical values ​​gained from using the machining tools and / or machine tools.

[0043] In a further embodiment of the method, an overall configuration of a machine tool for producing the component can be proposed based on a digital data set of a component entered by a user.

[0044] The overall configuration can include a selection of suitable machine tools, required tools, setting parameters of the tools on the machine tool and a CNC program created for the machine tool.

[0045] In addition to the data relevant to production, metadata such as estimated production times, cost calculations, raw material dimensions, and other data can also be transmitted. The information required for this can be derived from tool information entered by other users or empirical values ​​from the tool data sets. The database can also be linked to other processes, such as a process for creating a machining sequence from a digital data set of a component or similar.

[0046] The global database can also be connected to other systems, such as online tool shops or CAD / CAM systems for accessing the tool data records. Various payment methods are conceivable for access by other systems, such as monthly fees or billing for individual accesses to the global database.

[0047] Depending on the user's status, which is also stored in the database, the functions described in the embodiments of the method explained above, such as identifying a user of certain tools and / or allowing specific users to identify other users of tools, can be made accessible, as already explained above. The user's status can depend on various parameters and enable access to various database usage models.

[0048] For example, the following procedural steps may be required by the user in order to be able to carry out the procedural steps explained in the procedural steps explained above:

[0049] For example, it is conceivable that a user goes through a registration process before using the database to enter and / or receive information.

[0050] This can include at least the entry of a unique user identification feature and at least one communication channel in the form of an address, an email address, or a telephone number. In a further variant of the invention, a user can receive information from the database only after entering a predetermined quantity and / or quality of information into the database.

[0051] The quantity and / or quality of the information can be determined, for example, from the number of tool data sets entered and / or from the extent and quality of the information contained in the individual tool data sets.

[0052] It is also conceivable that a user has to pay a monetary contribution for the information available from the database.

[0053] This can be in the form of different payment models, such as one-time payments, subscriptions or even in the form of monetary credits received for entering information.

[0054] These procedural steps, which are additionally explained in the last section, enable the user's status to be clearly determined and thus provide a way of technically implementing, in particular, the provision of information from the database within the framework of the procedure described above.

[0055] A database according to the invention for providing tool data sets for machining tools is designed so that the database can validate the tool data sets according to the methods explained above. The database can advantageously improve data quality by validating the tool data sets based on multiple entries for the same tool information of a uniquely identifiable tool. As already explained above, the use of tool data sets validated by the database reduces the risk of damage to the component to be manufactured, the machining center, or other devices or persons involved in production due to incorrect tool data sets.The validated tool data sets thus advantageously reduce production costs due to the lower scrap rate in component manufacturing, especially when setting up the processing machine for a new component, and the associated additional effort. Furthermore, the processing machines and their operators can be protected from damage. The database can be implemented as a global, web-based database and connected via an interface to local databases and / or processing machines and / or CNC programs. Data can be transferred to or from the global database manually, automatically, or through a combination of both.

[0056] A system for manufacturing components according to the invention comprises an engineering data management system and a processing machine, wherein the engineering data management system and the processing machine are connected to one another in such a way that data can be exchanged between the engineering data management system and the processing machine. According to the invention, the engineering data management system comprises at least one database according to the embodiment described above.

[0057] An Engineering Data Management (EDM) system comprises the holistic, structured, and consistent management of all processes and data that arise during the development of new products or the modification of existing products, the so-called product engineering, throughout the entire product life cycle. The Engineering Data Management system is closely related to Product Data Management and overlaps in many ways. In addition to product data management, the Engineering Data Management system usually includes a document management system and a production data management system. Possible data and documents that can be managed by an Engineering Data Management system are: product configurations (e.g., parts lists), CAD models and CAD drawings, any type of document in electronic and non-electronic form, image files, (C)NC programs, project and work plans.

[0058] The database can, for example, be designed as part of the production data management system, but can also be designed as an independent module in the sense of a modular system.

[0059] The system's ability to exchange data between the processing machine and the database allows for the validation of tool data records, particularly the machine parameters and the material data of the component to be manufactured corresponding to the machine parameters, and continuously improves the tool data records in the database. This continuously improves both the data quality and the integrity of the tool data records, generating added value for the user.

[0060] Due to the automation of data transfer between the database and the processing machine and / or CNC program in the process explained above, the system can be designed as a self-learning or artificial intelligence-based system using an algorithm used to validate the tool data sets.

[0061] Furthermore, in addition to accessing the processing machine, the database can also be connected to other systems connected to the engineering data management system, such as CAx applications, i.e. computer-aided systems and PPS systems, i.e. so-called product planning systems, and if necessary, other sources can be used for further, in particular automated, use of tool information to validate the tool data records.

[0062] The invention is explained in more detail below with reference to the drawing.

[0063] Figure 1 shows a flow chart of a method according to the invention.

[0064] Figure 1 describes a possible method with which the provision of tool data sets for machining tools can be simplified.

[0065] In a first process step 1, a global database is provided to store the tool data records.

[0066] In a second process step 2, tool information is added to the tool data sets by users of the machining tools.

[0067] In a third method step 3, at least one tool data set for a specific machining tool is validated based on a comparison of a plurality of tool information items with at least one comparable parameter of this machining tool.

[0068] List of reference symbols

[0069] 1 Process step 1

[0070] 2 Process step 2

[0071] 3 Process step 3

Claims

Patent claims: Method for providing tool data sets for machining tools, comprising the following steps - Provision of a global database to record tool data records - Adding tool information to the tool records by a user and / or a manufacturer of the machining tools - Validation of at least one tool data set for a specific machining tool by comparing a plurality of tool information to at least one comparable parameter of that machining tool. A method according to claim 1, characterized in that at least parts of the tool data sets are transmitted to users for use in the design and / or production of components. A method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that at least one part of a tool data set is transmitted directly to a user-defined machining center and / or a CNC program for a machining center for use in the manufacture of components. A method according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that when at least one part of the tool data set is transmitted to a user, information on the status of the validation of the tool data set is also transmitted.Method according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that the user uses a local database with an interface to the global database for adding and / or transmitting. The method of claim 5, characterized in that tool information entered into the local database by the user is automatically transmitted to the global database. The method of any of the preceding claims, characterized in that Tool information, in particular the machine parameters used when using the tool, is automatically transmitted from a machine tool and / or from a CNC program for a machine tool to the global database. A method according to any one of claims 5 to 7, characterized in that the tool data records present in a local database are at least partially updated with updated tool data records from the global database upon active request and / or consent. A method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the validation is performed based on matching parameters for tool information in a tool data record. A method according to claim 9, characterized in that the validation is performed based on a plausibility criterion. A method according to claim 10, characterized in that the plausibility criterion is configured as a threshold value.The method of claim 11, characterized in that the threshold is a percentage. The method of any of the preceding claims, characterized in that. The validation is performed based on an algorithm.

4. Method according to claim 13, characterized in that the algorithm is executed computer-based.

5. Method according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the tool information comprises experience values ​​obtained by users from the use of the machining tools and / or machine tools.

6. Method according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that Users of certain tools are identifiable to other users. / Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that Users of tools are identifiable for specific users.

8. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a complete configuration of a corresponding machine tool is proposed based on a tool selected by a user.

9. Method according to claim 18, characterized in that the user can select the corresponding machine tool from a selection of offered machine tools.

0. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a complete configuration of a machine tool for the production of a component is proposed based on a digital data set of a component entered by a user. A method according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that a user must complete a registration process before using the database to input and / or receive information. A method according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that a user receives information from the database only after inputting a predetermined number and / or quality of information into the database. A method according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that a user must pay a monetary fee for the information obtainable from the database. A database for providing tool data sets for machining tools, characterized in that the database is configured to validate the tool data sets according to the method of claims 1 to 23. A system for manufacturing components comprising - an engineering data management system and - a machining center wherein the engineering data management system and the machining center are connected in such a way that data can be exchanged between the engineering data management system and the machining center, characterized in that the engineering data management system comprises at least one database according to claim 24.

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