Tool management device, tool management system, management method for managing information of tool unit, and management program for managing information of tool unit

Abstract

To provide a technique capable of supporting a user in preparing tool units more efficiently than in prior art.SOLUTION: A management device for managing information of a plurality of tool units includes: a use tool identification part for identifying, on the basis of a machining schedule of a workpiece in a machining system, tool units to be used in the machining system within a prescribed time from the present; a shortage tool identification part for identifying, from among the tool units to be used, tool units in short supply in the machining system; and a tool database related to the plurality of tool units. The tool database defines, for each of the plurality of tool units, classification of the tool unit and location information indicating the location of the tool unit. The management device comprises: a same classification tool identification part for identifying, on the basis of the tool database, a tool unit of the same classification as a tool unit in short supply; and an output part for outputting the location information of the tool unit of the same classification.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a tool management device, a tool management system, a management method for managing information of a tool unit, and a management program for managing information of a tool unit. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 (International Publication No. 2015 / 029232) discloses a tool management system for assisting an operator in preparing tools in a tool magazine of a machine tool.

[0003] The tool management system acquires a tool database including a list of tools prepared in a factory and a list of tools required to execute an NC program. After that, the tool management system extracts candidate tools that can be used from the list of tools and the tool database, and displays the list of candidate tools on a display unit. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] International Publication No. 2015 / 029232 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] The tool candidate list showing the tool units to be used is not enough for the worker to know where the tools are located. Therefore, a technology that can support the user to prepare the tool units more efficiently than before is desired. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] In one example of the present disclosure, a management device for managing information on a plurality of tool units is provided. The management device includes a tool-usage identifying unit for identifying a tool unit to be used in a machining system within a predetermined time from the present based on a machining schedule of a workpiece in the machining system, a missing tool identifying unit for identifying a tool unit that is missing in the machining system among the tool units to be used, and a tool database for the plurality of tool units. The tool database defines, for each of the plurality of tool units, a classification of the tool unit and location information indicating the location of the tool unit. The management device includes a similar tool identifying unit for identifying a tool unit of the same classification as the missing tool unit based on the tool database, and an output unit for outputting location information of the tool unit of the same classification.

[0007] In one example of the present disclosure, the machining system includes a machine tool, a tool storage unit configured to be able to store a plurality of tool units, a work station where an operator performs work on the tool units, and a transport device for transporting a specified tool unit among a tool unit in the machine tool, a tool unit in the tool storage unit, or a tool unit in the work station to a specified destination among the machine tool, the tool storage unit, or the work station.

[0008] In one example of the present disclosure, the location information indicates a location within the processing system or a location outside the processing system.

[0009] In one example of the present disclosure, the location within the processing system includes at least one of the machine tool, the tool store, and the work station.

[0010] In one example of the present disclosure, the tool database further defines a state of each of the plurality of tool units, the state including a usable state and an unusable state, and the output unit outputs location information related to the unusable tool units among the tool units of the same classification in a manner different from location information related to the usable tool units among the tool units of the same classification.

[0011] In another example of the present disclosure, a management system is provided. The management system includes a management device for managing information on a plurality of tool units, and a machining system. The management device includes a tool use identification unit for identifying a tool unit to be used in the machining system within a predetermined time from the present based on a machining schedule of a workpiece in the machining system, a missing tool identification unit for identifying a tool unit that is missing in the machining system among the tool units to be used, and a tool database related to the plurality of tool units. The tool database specifies, for each of the plurality of tool units, a classification of the tool unit and location information indicating the location of the tool unit. The management device further includes a similar tool identification unit for identifying a tool unit of the same classification as the missing tool unit based on the tool database, and an output unit for outputting location information of the tool unit of the same classification.

[0012] In another example of the present disclosure, a management method for managing information on a plurality of tool units is provided. The management method includes a step of identifying a tool unit to be used in a machining system within a predetermined time from the present based on a machining schedule of a workpiece in the machining system, a step of identifying a tool unit that is missing in the machining system among the tool units to be used, and a step of acquiring a tool database related to the plurality of tool units. The tool database defines, for each of the plurality of tool units, a classification of the tool unit and location information indicating the location of the tool unit. The management method includes a step of identifying a tool unit of the same classification as the missing tool unit based on the tool database, and a step of outputting the location information of the tool unit of the same classification.

[0013] In another example of the present disclosure, a management program for managing information on a plurality of tool units is provided. The management program causes a computer to execute the steps of: identifying tool units to be used in a machining system within a predetermined time from the present time based on a machining schedule of a workpiece in the machining system; identifying tool units that are missing in the machining system among the tool units to be used; and acquiring a tool database related to the plurality of tool units. The tool database defines, for each of the plurality of tool units, a classification of the tool unit and location information indicating the location of the tool unit. The management program further causes the computer to execute the steps of identifying tool units of the same classification as the missing tool unit based on the tool database, and outputting location information of the tool units of the same classification.

[0014] The above and other objects, features, aspects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description of the invention taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0015] [Figure 1] FIG. 2 illustrates an example of a device configuration of a management system. [Diagram 2] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a machining system as a tool transport system. [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of a drive mechanism of the processing system. [Figure 4] FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining an overview of a function for supporting a preparation work of a tool unit. [Diagram 5] FIG. 2 illustrates an example of a functional configuration of a management device. [Figure 6] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of processing settings. [Figure 7] FIG. 13 illustrates an example of a work database. [Figure 8] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example processing schedule. [Figure 9] FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of a tool database. [Figure 10] 13 is a diagram illustrating a process of identifying a missing tool unit by a missing tool identifying unit; FIG. [Figure 11] 11A to 11C are diagrams illustrating a process of identifying tool units of the same classification; [Figure 12] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of an output screen by an output unit. [Figure 13] 11A to 11C are diagrams illustrating a flow of a process of carrying a tool unit from a work station to a tool storage section. [Figure 14] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing storage information as an example. [Figure 15] 11A to 11C are diagrams illustrating a flow of a process of carrying in a tool unit from a tool storage unit to a machine tool. [Figure 16] 10A to 10C are diagrams illustrating a flow of a process for carrying out a tool unit from a machine tool to a work station. [Figure 17] FIG. 2 illustrates an example of a hardware configuration of a management apparatus. [Figure 18] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of a PLC (Programmable Logic Controller). [Figure 19] It is a diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of an operation terminal. [Figure 20] It is a diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of a machine tool. [Figure 21] It is a diagram showing a flowchart related to the update process of an output screen.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0016] Hereinafter, each embodiment according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following description, the same parts and components are denoted by the same reference numerals. Their names and functions are also the same. Therefore, detailed descriptions thereof will not be repeated. Note that each of the embodiments and each modification described below may be selectively combined as appropriate.

[0017] <A. Management System 1> First, with reference to FIG. 1, the device configuration of the management system 1 will be described. FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the device configuration of the management system 1.

[0018] The management system 1 includes one or more processing systems 10 and one or more management devices 100. The processing system 10 is installed, for example, in the factory FA. In the example of FIG. 1, two processing systems 10A and 10B are installed in the factory FA.

[0019] As used herein, the "processing system" means a system including one or more machine tools having a workpiece processing function. Hereinafter, as the processing system 10, a tool transfer system having an automatic tool unit transfer function will be described as an example, but the processing system 10 is not limited to the tool transfer system.

[0020] In addition, the "tool unit" as referred to in this specification may mean the tool itself or a combination of the tool and the members associated with the tool. Examples of the associated members include, for example, a tool holder for holding the tool, a cutting tool that can be attached to the tool, and other members that can be attached to the tool.

[0021] The management device 100 is a computer for managing information on a plurality of tool units. As an example, the tool units managed by the management device 100 include the tool units within the processing system 10 and the tool units outside the processing system 10.

[0022] The management device 100 is, for example, a notebook or desktop PC (Personal Computer), a desktop PC, a tablet terminal, or other computers with communication functions. The number of management devices 100 constituting the management system 1 may be one or two or more. The management device 100 is configured to be communicable with the processing system 10 via a network NW1 (for example, the Internet).

[0023] <B. Appearance of the Processing System 10> Next, with reference to FIG. 2, an example of the processing system 10 shown in FIG. 1 will be described. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the processing system 10 as a tool conveyance system.

[0024] As shown in FIG. 2, the processing system 10 includes a work station 200, a tool storage unit 250, a conveyance device 300, and a machine tool 400.

[0025] The work station 200 is a place where an operator performs operations on the tool unit. The operator, for example, performs a setting operation or a recovery operation of the tool unit at the work station 200.

[0026] The work station 200 includes an operation terminal 200A. The operation terminal 200A accepts various operations for the processing system 10.

[0027] A plurality of tool units can be stored in the tool storage section 250. The tool storage section 250 functions as a temporary storage location for the tool units.

[0028] The conveying device 300 conveys a specified tool unit among a tool unit in the work station 200, a tool unit in the tool storage section 250, and a tool unit in the machine tool 400 to a specified destination among the work station 200, the tool storage section 250, and the machine tool 400.

[0029] In the following, the transport mode in which the transport device 300 transports a tool unit from the work station 200 to the tool storage section 250 or the machine tool 400, or the transport mode in which the transport device 300 transports a tool unit from the tool storage section 250 to the machine tool 400, is also referred to as “loading”.

[0030] In addition, the transport mode in which the transport device 300 transports a tool unit from the tool storage section 250 or the machine tool 400 to the work station 200, or the transport mode in which the transport device 300 transports a tool unit from the machine tool 400 to the tool storage section 250, is also referred to as "transporting."

[0031] In addition, the term "transport device" in this specification is a concept that includes various devices having a function of transporting a tool unit. In the following, a 4- to 7-axis driven articulated robot will be described as an example of the transport device 300, but the transport device 300 is not limited to an articulated robot. As an example, the transport device 300 may be a 2- to 3-axis driven Cartesian robot (autoloader). Alternatively, the transport device 300 may be a self-propelled robot.

[0032] The transfer device 300 includes an arm robot 330, a rail 331, and a carriage 332. The arm robot 330 is fixed on the carriage 332. The carriage 332 is configured to be movable on the rail 331. The tool storage unit 250 and the machine tool 400 are arranged parallel to each other along the rail 331 so as to sandwich the rail 331.

[0033] The machine tool 400 is one of the destinations for transferring the tool unit by the transfer device 300. In FIG. 2, six machine tools 400A to 400F are shown as the machine tool 400, but the number of machine tools 400 constituting the processing system 10 may be one or more. The machine tool 400 processes a workpiece using a specified tool unit according to a pre-designed processing program.

[0034] As used in this specification, the "machine tool" is a concept encompassing various devices having a function of processing a workpiece. The machine tool 400 may be a horizontal machining center, a vertical machining center, a lathe, an attachment processing machine, or other cutting machines or grinding machines.

[0035] In the above description, an example in which the processing system 10 includes the work station 200 has been described, but the processing system 10 may not include the work station 200.

[0036] <C. Drive Mechanism of Processing System 10> Next, with reference to FIG. 3, various drive mechanisms in the above-described processing system 10 will be described. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a configuration example of the drive mechanism of the processing system 10.

[0037] As shown in FIG. 3, the processing system 10 includes remote I / O (Input / Output) units 71 to 73, a PLC 150, the above-described work station 200, the above-described operation terminal 200A, the above-described transfer device 300, and the above-described machine tool 400.

[0038] The PLC 150 is configured to be able to communicate with various industrial devices for automating the machining process, and controls the industrial devices. The operation terminal 200A is a terminal for receiving various operations related to the loading and unloading of the tool unit.

[0039] The PLC 150 and the operation terminal 200A may be connected to a network NW1. The PLC 150 and the operation terminal 200A may be connected for communication by wire or wirelessly. EtherNET (registered trademark) or the like is adopted for the network NW1. The management device 100 and the operation terminal 200A send control commands to the PLC 150 via the network NW1. The control commands specify the tool unit to be transported, the destination of the tool unit, start / stop of transport of the tool unit, and the like.

[0040] The remote I / O units 71 to 73 and the PLC 150 are connected to a network NW2. It is preferable to use a field network that performs periodic communication and guarantees the arrival time of data for the network NW2. As a field network that performs such periodic communication, EtherCAT (registered trademark), EtherNet / IP (registered trademark), CC-Link (registered trademark), CompoNet (registered trademark), or the like is used.

[0041] The work station 200 includes one or more motor drivers 234 and one or more motors 235. In the example of Figure 3, two motor drivers 234A, 234B and two motors 235A, 235B are shown.

[0042] A remote I / O unit 71 is installed in or near the work station 200. The remote I / O unit 71 mediates data exchange between various drive units (e.g., motor driver 234) in the work station 200 and the PLC 150. As an example, the motor driver 234 receives a control command from the PLC 150 via the remote I / O unit 71 at regular intervals, and controls the drive of the motor 235 in accordance with the control command.

[0043] The motor 235A, for example, controls the driving of a magazine M1 (see FIG. 13) in the work station 200, which will be described later. The motor 235B, for example, controls the driving of an ATC (Automatic Train Control) 238 (see FIG. 13) in the work station 200, which will be described later.

[0044] The motor driver 234 may be, for example, a driver for a servo motor or a driver for a stepping motor, and the motor 235 may be a servo motor or a stepping motor.

[0045] The transport device 300 includes one or more motor drivers 334 and one or more motors 335. In the example of Fig. 3, two motor drivers 334A and 334B and two motors 335A and 335B are shown.

[0046] A remote I / O unit 72 is installed in or near the transport device 300. The remote I / O unit 72 mediates data exchange between various drive units (e.g., motor driver 334) in the transport device 300 and the PLC 150. As an example, the motor driver 334 receives a control command from the PLC 150 via the remote I / O unit 72 at regular intervals, and controls the drive of the motor 335 according to the control command.

[0047] The motor 335A controls, for example, the driving of the above-described carriage 332 (see FIG. 2). The motor 335B controls, for example, the driving of the arm robot 330 (see FIG. 2). The motor 335B is provided according to the number of joints of the arm robot 330.

[0048] The motor driver 334 may be, for example, a driver for a servo motor or a driver for a stepping motor. The motor 335 may be a servo motor or a stepping motor.

[0049] A remote I / O unit 73 is installed inside or around the machine tool 400. The machine tool 400 includes a CNC 401. The remote I / O unit 73 mediates the data exchange between the PLC 150 and the CNC 401. The CNC 401 controls various drive mechanisms inside the machine tool 400 according to a pre-designed machining program, for example, based on receiving a machining start command from the PLC 150.

[0050] <D. Outline of the tool unit preparation support function> Next, with reference to FIG. 4, a function for assisting an operator in preparing the tool unit will be described. FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining the outline of the function for assisting the preparation work of the tool unit.

[0051] When there is no tool unit scheduled to be used in the machining system 10, the operator needs to prepare the tool unit scheduled to be used and set the tool unit in the machining system 10.

[0052] An example of the preparation work is the work of registering information on a tool unit in the machining system 10. The contents input in the registration work include, for example, attribute information on the tool unit. The attribute information is information indicating the characteristics of the tool, such as the tool shape or the tool condition. As an example, the attribute information includes the tool diameter, the tool length, and the tool life. The tool diameter indicates the diameter of the tool in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the spindle. The tool length indicates the length of the tool in the axial direction of the spindle. The tool life is an index indicating the timing to replace the tool. The tool life is indicated, for example, by the usable time or the number of times that the tool can be used. The information registered by the operator is reflected in the tool database 130.

[0053] Another example of the preparation work includes a work in which the operator sets a tool in a tool holder. When the tool is set in the tool holder, the tool becomes available for use in the processing system 10.

[0054] In order to support such preparation work, the management device 100 identifies tool units that are in short supply in the machining system 10 among the tool units that are to be used in the machining system 10, and displays location information of the insufficient tool units. This allows the worker to immediately prepare the tool units that are to be used.

[0055] More specifically, in step S10, the management device 100 acquires the tool database 130 that defines information about a plurality of tool units. As an example, the tool database 130 defines information about tool units in a factory. The tool database 130 defines, for each tool unit, at least a classification of the tool unit and location information indicating the location of the tool unit.

[0056] In step S12, the management device 100 identifies a tool unit that is scheduled to be used in the machining system 10 within a predetermined time from the present time based on the machining schedule 126 in the machining system 10. The length of the predetermined time may be set in advance or may be arbitrarily set by the user.

[0057] In step S14, the management device 100 identifies, among the tool units scheduled for use specified in step S12, the tool units that are lacking in the processing system 10 (hereinafter also referred to as "lacking tool units"). Typically, the management device 100 refers to the location information defined in the tool database 130 to identify the held tool units held within the processing system 10. Thereafter, the management device 100 excludes the held tool units from the above-mentioned tool units scheduled for use, and identifies the remaining tool units as lacking tool units.

[0058] In step S16, the management device 100 identifies, based on the tool database 130, tool units of the same classification as the lacking tool units identified in step S14.

[0059] In step S18, the management device 100 outputs the location information of the identified tool units of the same classification. In the example of FIG. 4, the location information is output to the output screen 80.

[0060] The output screen 80 is displayed, for example, on the display 106 of the management device 100. As another example, the output screen 80 may be displayed on the display of the operation terminal 200A. As yet another example, the output screen 80 may be displayed on the display of the machine tool 400.

[0061] The output screen 80 displays side by side, for each of the lacking tool units, the information of the tool units of the same classification and the location information of the tool units of the same classification. By checking the output screen 80, the operator can grasp the tool units that he / she should prepare and know the location of the tool units. Thereby, the management system 1 supports the operator in preparing the tool units.

[0062] <E. Functional Configuration of Management Device 100> Next, the functional configuration of the above-mentioned management device 100 will be described with reference to Fig. 5 to Fig. 12. Fig. 5 is a diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the management device 100.

[0063] 5, the management device 100 includes a control unit 50. The control unit 50 is configured to control the management device 100.

[0064] The control unit 50 includes, as its functional components, a schedule generating unit 52, a tool-to-use identifying unit 54, a missing tool identifying unit 56, a similar tool identifying unit 58, and an output unit 62. Below, these functional components will be described in order.

[0065] In the example of Figure 5, these functional configurations are shown to be implemented in the management device 100, but some or all of the functional configurations shown in Figure 5 may be implemented in the above-mentioned PLC 150 (see Figure 3), the above-mentioned operation terminal 200A (see Figure 2), an external device such as a server, or dedicated hardware.

[0066] (E1. Schedule Generation Unit 52) First, the function of the schedule generating unit 52 shown in FIG. 5 will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0067] The schedule generating unit 52 generates a machining schedule 126 shown in FIG. 8 based on the machining settings 123 shown in FIG. 6 and the workpiece database 124 shown in FIG.

[0068] 6 is a diagram showing an example of the processing setting 123. The worker registers the workpiece to be processed in advance by registering the processing setting 123. The processing setting 123 is registered by the worker, for example, in the above-mentioned management device 100 or the above-mentioned operation terminal 200A. The contents registered by the worker include, for example, identification information of the workpiece to be processed, the number of workpieces to be processed, and the processing order of the workpieces.

[0069] In the example of Figure 6, a processing task for 10 workpieces "A", a processing task for 8 workpieces "D", a processing task for 5 workpieces "C", and a processing task for 4 workpieces "B" are registered in processing order.

[0070] 7 is a diagram showing an example of the workpiece database 124. As an example, the workpiece database 124 associates, for each piece of workpiece identification information, a machining program for realizing machining of the workpiece, a tool unit to be used when machining the workpiece, a machining time required for machining the workpiece, and other information related to the machining of the workpiece.

[0071] The machining program defined in the work database 124 is registered by an operator, for example, in the above-mentioned management device 100, the above-mentioned operation terminal 200A, or the above-mentioned machine tool 400. The machining program may be generated in any manner. As an example, some machine tools 400 have a function for automatically generating a machining program by having an operator answer questions in an interactive format. The machining program is generated, for example, by this function. Alternatively, the machining program may be designed by an operator writing program code.

[0072] The tool units to be used, which are defined in the workpiece database 124, are set in advance by a user, for example. Alternatively, the tool units to be used may be specified from a machining program. More specifically, a command code for calling the tool units to be used is defined in the machining program. The command code is, for example, a T-code for specifying the tool units to be mounted on the spindle. The schedule generating unit 52 searches for the T-code from each machining program to specify the identification information of the tool units to be used in machining each workpiece.

[0073] The machining time defined in the workpiece database 124 is, for example, input in advance by an operator. Alternatively, the machining time may be calculated from the past machining results of each workpiece.

[0074] The schedule generating unit 52 refers to the workpiece database 124 and specifies a processing time for each workpiece defined in the processing setting 123. Next, the schedule generating unit 52 generates a processing schedule 126 based on the specified processing time, the number of each workpiece defined in the processing setting 123, and the processing sequence of each workpiece defined in the processing setting 123.

[0075] 8 is a diagram showing an example of a machining schedule 126. In the machining schedule 126, a machining task for a workpiece in each of the machine tools 400 is defined. In addition, in the machining schedule 126, a tool unit used in the machining task and a usage time of the tool unit are defined. The usage time is defined by, for example, a usage start time and a usage end time.

[0076] (E2.Used tool identification section 54) Next, the function of the tool-use identification unit 54 shown in FIG. 5 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0077] The tool-to-be-used specifying unit 54 specifies a tool unit to be used in the machining system 10 based on the machining schedule 126 of the machining system 10 .

[0078] More specifically, the tool-use specification unit 54 extracts machining tasks from the present to a predetermined time ΔT later in the machining schedule 126. The length of the time ΔT may be set in advance or may be arbitrarily set by the user. The length of the time ΔT may be set to, for example, several minutes, several hours, or several days.

[0079] Next, the tool-to-be-used identifying unit 54 identifies the identification information of the tool unit used in each machining task as a tool to be used. The identified tool to be used is output to a missing tool identifying unit 56 and a similar tool identifying unit 58, which will be described later.

[0080] (E3. Missing tool identification part 56) Next, the function of the missing tool identifying unit 56 shown in FIG. 5 will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0081] The missing tool identifying unit 56 identifies a missing tool unit in the machining system 10 from among the tool units to be used that are identified by the above-mentioned tool-to-be-used identifying unit 54. The missing tool unit is identified, for example, based on the tool database 130 shown in FIG.

[0082] 9 is a diagram showing an example of the tool database 130. The tool database 130 defines information on each tool unit managed by the management system 1. The tool units managed by the management system 1 include tool units housed in the machining system 10 and tool units housed outside the machining system 10 in a factory.

[0083] 9, the tool database 130 associates, as information for each tool unit, the identification information of the tool holder, the identification information of the tool held in the tool holder, the tool classification assigned to the tool, the location information of the tool unit or the tool holder, the available amount of the tool, the current amount of the tool used, the remaining life of the tool, and the state of the tool. The "amount" here is a concept that includes time, distance, and number of times.

[0084] The identification information of the tool holder defined in the tool database 130 is information for uniquely identifying the tool holder. The identification information is assigned in advance to each tool holder. As an example, the identification information may be indicated by a tool holder number such as an ID (Identification) or may be indicated by a tool holder name.

[0085] The tool identification information defined in the tool database 130 is information for uniquely identifying a tool. The identification information is assigned in advance to each tool. As an example, the identification information may be indicated by a tool number such as an ID or may be indicated by a tool name.

[0086] The tool classification defined in the tool database 130 is information indicating the type of tool, and is assigned in advance to each tool. The tool classification is set in advance by an operator. The setting of the tool classification may be accepted, for example, by the management device 100 or by the work station 200. The type may be indicated by a group number such as an ID, or may be indicated by a group name.

[0087] The location information defined in the tool database 130 indicates a storage location of the tool unit. The location information is updated every time the tool unit is transported. More specifically, the machining system 10 transmits information including the tool unit to be transported and the destination of the tool unit to the management device 100 every time the transport device 300 transports the tool unit. Based on receiving the information, the management device 100 updates the location information of the tool unit to be transported in the tool database 130.

[0088] As an example, the location indicated by the location information is a location within the machining system 10 or a location outside the machining system 10. Examples of locations within the machining system 10 include the work station 200, the tool storage unit 250, and the machine tool 400. Examples of locations outside the machining system 10 include a work room where tool adjustment work is performed, a tool storage location, and other locations within the factory.

[0089] The usable amount defined in the tool database 130 indicates the maximum usable amount of a tool from when it is new until the end of its life. The usable amount of each tool is predetermined by the tool manufacturer or the like, and is registered in the tool database 130 in advance.

[0090] The current usage amount defined in the tool database 130 indicates the usage amount of the tool from the time of new product to the present time. The current usage amount is periodically received from the machining system 10.

[0091] The remaining life defined in the tool database 130 indicates the remaining usage amount of the tool from the present until the end of the tool's life. Typically, the remaining life corresponds to the result of subtracting the current usage amount of the tool from the maximum usable amount of the tool.

[0092] The current usage amount and the remaining life specified in the tool database 130 are updated successively. The current usage amount and the remaining life are monitored by various methods. As an example, the machining program of the machine tool 400 is specified in G-code, and includes a tool exchange command for specifying a tool to be attached to the spindle, and a drive command for rotating / feeding the spindle and the tool. The machining system 10 specifies the type of tool used for machining the workpiece based on the tool exchange command specified in the machining program. Next, the machining system 10 starts counting down the remaining life of the tool based on the execution of the drive command specified in the machining program. Next, the machining system 10 stops counting down the remaining life of the tool based on the execution of the stop command or the command in the last line specified in the machining program. The remaining life is transmitted to the management device 100. As a result, the management device 10 updates the remaining life of each tool unit in the tool database 130.

[0093] The tool states defined in the tool database 130 include, for example, an available state indicating that the tool is available for use in machining, and an unavailable state indicating that the tool is unavailable for use in machining.

[0094] In the example of Figure 9, a usable tool is shown as either "normal" or "life warning." "Life warning" indicates that the tool is nearing the end of its life. As an example, the machining system 10 changes the status of a tool in the tool database 130 from "normal" to "life warning" if the remaining life of the tool falls below a predetermined threshold.

[0095] In the example of Fig. 9, the unusable tool is indicated as "out of service life" or "damaged". An "unusable tool" means a tool that is not recommended for use in machining a workpiece. Typically, an "unusable tool" refers to a tool other than a "usable tool".

[0096] As an example, a tool that is out of service includes a tool that has reached the end of its life due to wear, etc., and a tool that has been damaged. Types of damage to a tool include, for example, deformation of the tool due to application of excessive force, chipping of the tool blade, and breakage of the tool.

[0097] For example, based on the fact that the life of the tool has reached zero, the machining system 10 changes the status of the tool in the tool database 130 from "life warning" to "life expired."

[0098] 10 is a diagram illustrating a process of identifying a missing tool unit by the missing tool identifying unit 56. The missing tool identifying unit 56 refers to the tool database 130 to identify tool units that are missing in the machining system 10 among the tool units to be used that are identified by the above-mentioned tool-to-be-used identifying unit 54.

[0099] More specifically, the missing tool identifying unit 56 first identifies each tool unit held in the machining system 10 by referring to the location information of the tool database 130. Next, the missing tool identifying unit 56 excludes each tool unit held in the machining system 10 from among the tool units to be used identified by the above-mentioned tool-to-be-used identifying unit 54, and identifies the remaining tool units as missing tool units. Information on the identified missing tool units is output as missing tool information to a similar tool identifying unit 58 described later and an output unit 62 described later.

[0100] (E4. Similar tool identification section 58) Next, the function of the similar tool identification unit 58 shown in Fig. 5 will be described with reference to Fig. 11. Fig. 11 is a diagram showing a schematic process of identifying tool units of the same classification.

[0101] The similar tool identifying unit 58 identifies tool units of the same category for each missing tool unit identified by the missing tool identifying unit 56 described above, based on the tool database 130 described above.

[0102] More specifically, first, the similar tool identifying unit 58 identifies the tool classification of the missing tool unit by referring to the tool database 130. Next, the similar tool identifying unit 58 identifies other tool units to which the same tool classification as the identified tool classification is assigned by referring to the tool database 130. After that, the similar tool identifying unit 58 identifies location information associated with the identified tool unit of the same classification and a tool state associated with the tool unit of the same classification.

[0103] 11 shows tool information 131 relating to the identified tool units of the same classification. The identified tool information 131 of the same classification is output to the output unit 62, which will be described later.

[0104] In the example of Fig. 11, for the missing tool unit "A", a tool unit "A1" of the same classification is identified. It is also shown that the tool unit "A1" is in "Location A" and the tool status is "Normal".

[0105] Similarly, for the missing tool unit "B", tool units "B1" and "B2" of the same classification are identified. It is also shown that the tool unit "B1" is in "location B1" and the tool status is "damaged". It is also shown that the tool unit "B2" is in "location B2" and the tool status is "expired".

[0106] Similarly, for the missing tool unit "C", a tool unit "C1" of the same classification is identified. Also, it is shown that the tool unit "C1" is in "location C" and the tool status is "life warning".

[0107] In the above, an example has been described in which a tool unit of the same classification as a missing tool unit is identified, but the similar tool identification unit 58 may also identify tool units of the same classification not only for the missing tool unit but also for all tool units to be used.

[0108] (E5. Output section 62) Next, the function of the output unit 62 shown in Fig. 5 will be described with reference to Fig. 12. Fig. 12 is a diagram showing an example of an output screen 80 by the output unit 62.

[0109] The output unit 62 outputs various information necessary for the worker to prepare the missing tool unit. As the information, the output unit 62 outputs some or all of the processing results of the above-mentioned tool-to-be-used identification unit 54, the processing results of the above-mentioned missing tool identification unit 56, and the processing results of the similar tool identification unit 58. The information is displayed on the output screen 80, for example.

[0110] The display destination of output screen 80 is arbitrary. As one example, output screen 80 is displayed on display 106 of management device 100. As another example, output screen 80 may be displayed on the display of operation terminal 200A. As yet another example, output screen 80 may be displayed on the display of machine tool 400.

[0111] The output screen 80 includes, for example, screen summary information 85, date and time information 90A, classification information 90B, job information 90C, destination information 90D, location information 90E, tool identification information 90F, and location information 90G to 90J, 91A to 91D.

[0112] The summary information 85 includes, for example, the update date and time of the output screen 80 and the number of tool units displayed as the output result.

[0113] The date and time information 90A indicates the time when each missing tool unit is required by the machine tool 400. The time is obtained, for example, from the machining schedule 126 described above.

[0114] The classification information 90B indicates a classification of each missing tool unit. The classification is obtained, for example, from the tool information 131 described above.

[0115] The job information 90C is information for uniquely identifying the processing job. The time is acquired from the processing schedule 126 described above, for example.

[0116] The destination information 90D indicates the destination machine tool 400 of each missing tool unit. The time is acquired from the machining schedule 126 described above, for example.

[0117] The location information 90E indicates whether or not there is a prepared tool unit in the same category as the missing tool unit and in a usable state on the floor. The floor indicates an area outside the machining system 10. As an example, "NoData" indicated in the location information 90E indicates that there is no prepared tool unit on the floor. Also, "Floor" indicated in the location information 90E indicates that there is a prepared tool unit on the floor. By checking the location information 90E, the worker can know whether or not there is a prepared tool unit on the floor.

[0118] The tool identification information 90F indicates identification information of a prepared tool unit. The identification information is acquired from the tool information 131 described above, for example.

[0119] The location information 90G to 90J and 91A to 91D indicates the location of the tool units of the same classification as the missing tool unit. The location information 90G to 90J and 91A to 91D is acquired from the tool information 131 described above, for example.

[0120] The location information 90G to 90J indicates the location of a usable tool unit among tool units in the same category as the missing tool unit.

[0121] More specifically, the "Floor" shown in the location information 90G indicates how many usable tool units of the same category as the missing tool unit are present on the floor. By checking the location information 90G, the worker can know how many prepared tool units are present.

[0122] Furthermore, "TSS" shown in the location information 90H indicates how many usable tool units of the same category as the missing tool unit are present in the above-mentioned work station 200. The tool unit indicates information on a tool that is scheduled to be used separately on another machine tool 400 different from the destination machine tool 400. By checking the location information 90H, the worker can know that a substitute tool unit exists in the work station 200, but that the tool unit is scheduled to be used separately on another machine tool 400.

[0123] Furthermore, the "CTS" shown in the location information 90I indicates how many usable tool units of the same category as the missing tool unit are present in the above-mentioned tool storage unit 250. The tool unit indicates information on a tool that is scheduled to be used on another machine tool 400 different from the destination machine tool 400. By checking the location information 90I, the worker can know that a substitute tool unit exists in the tool storage unit 250, but that the tool unit is scheduled to be used on another machine tool 400.

[0124] Furthermore, "MCs" shown in the location information 90J indicates how many usable tool units of the same category as the missing tool unit are present in another machine tool 400 other than the destination machine tool 400. By checking the location information 90J, the worker can know that an alternative tool unit exists in another machine tool 400, but that the tool unit is scheduled to be used in the other machine tool 400.

[0125] The location information 91A to 91D indicates the location of the unavailable tool units among the tool units of the same classification as the missing tool units. The worker can efficiently prepare the tools to be used by reusing some of the unavailable tool units as new tool units.

[0126] The "Floor" shown in the location information 91A indicates how many unavailable tool units of the same category as the missing tool units are present on the floor. By checking the location information 91A, the worker can know how many usable tool units are present on the "Floor".

[0127] In addition, the "TSS" shown in the location information 91B indicates how many unusable tool units of the same category as the missing tool unit are present in the above-mentioned work station 200. By checking the location information 91B, the worker can know how many usable tool units are present in the work station 200.

[0128] In addition, the "CTS" shown in the location information 91C indicates how many unusable tool units of the same category as the missing tool unit are present in the tool storage unit 250. By checking the location information 91C, the worker can know how many usable tool units are present in the tool storage unit 250.

[0129] Further, "MCs" shown in the location information 91D indicates how many unusable tool units of the same category as the missing tool unit are present in the machine tool 400. By checking the location information 91D, the operator can know how many usable tool units are present in the machine tool 400.

[0130] Preferably, the output unit 62 outputs the location information 91A to 91D related to the tool units in a non-usable state within the same classification of tool units in a display mode different from the location information 90E, 90G to 90J related to the tool units in a usable state within the same classification of tool units. Thereby, the operator can easily determine the location of the reusable tool units in the non-usable state. As a result, the operator can prepare the tool units to be used by diverting a part of the tool units in the non-usable state (for example, tool holders, tools, cutting tools). As a result, the operator can shorten the time required to prepare the tool units. In addition, the cost is reduced by diverting the tool units in the non-usable state.

[0131] Typically, the location information 91A to 91D is displayed more prominently than the location information 90E, 90G to 90J. The method of the prominent display is arbitrary. As an example, the prominent display is realized by displaying the location information 91A to 91D in a specific color (for example, red). Alternatively, the prominent display is realized by hatching the location information 91A to 91D. Alternatively, the prominent display is realized by displaying the display size of the location information 91A to 91D larger than that of other location information.

[0132] In addition, the output unit 62 selects any of the location information 90G to 90J, 91A to 91D, and displays the information of each tool unit related to the selected location information in more detail. Examples of the detailed information to be displayed include the location information of the tool unit and the tool state of the tool unit.

[0133] <F. Process of Loading Tools into the Tool Storage Unit 250> Next, with reference to FIGS. 13 and 14, the process of loading the tool units from the work station 200 into the tool storage unit 250 will be described. FIG. 13 is a diagram schematically showing the flow of the process of loading the tool units from the work station 200 into the tool storage unit 250.

[0134] In step S1, the worker sets the tool holder H1 to be loaded in the magazine M1 in the work station 200. The tool to be loaded is attached to the tool holder H1. The number of tool holders that can be stored in the work station 200 is smaller than the number of tool holders that can be stored in the tool storage unit 250.

[0135] A barcode or QR code (registered trademark) reader (not shown) is provided near the position where the worker sets the tool holder H1 in the magazine M1. The reader reads the barcode or QR code attached to the tool holder H1. This allows the identifier of the tool holder H1 to be loaded to be read. When the worker has completed setting the tool holder H1, he or she performs a completion operation on the operation terminal 200A.

[0136] Next, in step S2, the machining system 10 controls the motor 235A (see FIG. 3) to drive the magazine M1 in the work station 200. As a result, the machining system 10 moves the tool holder H1 to be loaded to a predetermined tool exchange position. The ATC 238 is provided near the tool exchange position. The ATC 238 removes the tool holder H1 at the tool exchange position from the magazine M1 and rotates it half a turn.

[0137] Next, in step S3, the arm robot 330 removes the tool holder H1 from the ATC 238, and places the tool holder H1 in the temporary storage area 336 on the cart 332. If there are other tool holders to be carried in, the processes of steps S1 to S3 are repeated within the range not exceeding the maximum number of tool holders that can be stored in the temporary storage area 336.

[0138] Next, in step S4, the machining system 10 controls the motor 335A to drive the carriage 332. As a result, the machining system 10 moves the carriage 332 to the instructed tool loading position. The tool loading position is determined based on, for example, the storage information 175 shown in FIG.

[0139] 14 is a diagram showing an example of storage information 175. The storage information 175 is information that specifies the tool storage state in each tool storage location in the processing system 10.

[0140] More specifically, the storage location defined in the storage information 175 may be indicated by a number such as an ID, or may be indicated by a storage location name. The coordinate value of the storage location defined in the storage information 175 may be specified in two dimensions or may be specified in three dimensions. In the example of FIG. 14, the coordinate value is indicated by a coordinate value "x" in a direction parallel to the rail 331 and a coordinate value "z" in a vertical direction. The identification information of the tool defined in the storage information 175 may be indicated by a tool number such as an ID, or may be indicated by a tool name. The storage state defined in the storage information 175 indicates, for example, whether the storage location is empty or not, or whether the tool stored in the storage location is normal or not. The remaining life of the tool defined in the storage information 175 may be indicated by a current total usage time relative to a maximum usable time of the tool, or may be indicated by a current total usage number relative to a maximum usable number of times of the tool.

[0141] The processing system 10 determines the storage destination of the tool T1 by referring to the empty storage locations defined in the storage information 175. When there are multiple empty storage locations, the processing system 10 may determine one storage location randomly selected from the multiple empty storage locations as the storage destination, or may determine one storage location closer to the transport device 300 selected from the multiple empty storage locations as the storage destination.

[0142] 13 again, the processing system 10 determines the storage destination of the tool holder H1 by referring to the empty storage locations defined in the storage information 175. When there are multiple empty storage locations, the processing system 10 may determine one storage location randomly selected from the multiple empty storage locations as the storage destination, or may determine one of the multiple empty storage locations that is closer to the transport device 300 as the storage destination.

[0143] Next, in step S5, the arm robot 330 removes the tool holder H1 to be carried in from the temporary storage place 336 and stores the tool holder H1 in the determined storage destination. After that, the processing system 10 updates the storage information 175 by associating the identifier of the tool holder H1 with the corresponding storage location.

[0144] If there are other tool holders to be carried in remaining in the temporary storage place 336, the processing system 10 repeats the steps S4 and S5 until there are no more tool holders on the temporary storage place 336.

[0145] The storage information 175 is periodically transmitted to the management device 100. The management device 100 updates the tool database 130 based on the received storage information 175.

[0146] <G. Tool Loading Process into the Machine Tool 400> Next, with reference to FIG. 15, the tool unit loading process following FIG. 13 will be described. FIG. 15 is a diagram schematically showing the flow of the tool unit loading process from the tool storage unit 250 to the machine tool 400.

[0147] The processing system 10 identifies the tool unit to be carried in and the destination machine tool 400 according to the above-described processing schedule 126. Thus, assuming that the tool holder H2 is identified as the tool unit to be carried in. In this case, the processing system 10 identifies the storage location of the tool holder H2 from the above-described storage information 175 (see FIG. 14). After that, the processing system 10 drives the carriage 332 by controlling the motor 335A (see FIG. 3) and moves the carriage 332 in front of the storage location of the tool holder H2.

[0148] Next, in step S11, the arm robot 330 takes out the tool holder H2 to be transported from the tool storage unit 250 and places the tool holder H2 in the temporary storage place 336 on the carriage 332.

[0149] Next, in step S12, the processing system 10 drives the carriage 332 to the position of the machine tool 400 at the destination by controlling the motor 335A.

[0150] Next, in step S13, the arm robot 330 passes the tool holder H2 to the ATC 438 provided in the machine tool 400 at the destination. Then, the ATC 438 sets the tool holder H2 in the magazine inside the machine tool 400.

[0151] <Tool unloading process to the work station 200> Next, referring to FIG. 16, the tool unit unloading process will be described. FIG. 16 is a diagram schematically showing the flow of the tool unit unloading process from the machine tool 400 to the work station 200.

[0152] Assume that at a certain timing, the processing system 10 receives an instruction to collect the tool holder. Based on this, the processing system 10 identifies the tool holder to be collected from among the tool holders stored in the machine tool 400. As a result, assume that the tool holder H3 is identified as the collection target. The processing system 10 refers to the above storage information 175 (see FIG. 14) to identify the storage destination of the tool holder H3. Then, the processing system 10 drives the carriage 332 by controlling the above motor 335A (see FIG. 3) and moves the carriage 332 in front of the machine tool 400 that stores the tool holder H3. Next, the arm robot 330 takes out the tool holder H3 from the machine tool 400 and places the tool holder H3 in the temporary placement area 336 on the carriage 332. Also, the processing system 10 deletes the identifier of the tool holder H3 from the storage information 175 and rewrites the storage source of the tool holder H3 to an empty state.

[0153] Next, in step S21, the processing system 10 drives the carriage 332 by controlling the above motor 335A and moves the carriage 332 from in front of the machine tool 400 to in front of the work station 200.

[0154] Next, in step S22, the arm robot 330 removes the tool holder H3 to be carried out from the temporary placement area 336 and mounts the tool holder H3 on the above-described ATC 238 (see FIG. 13) provided in the work station 200. Thereafter, the ATC 238 mounts the tool holder H3 on the magazine M1 of the work station 200.

[0155] Next, in step S23, the processing system 10 drives the magazine M1 by controlling the above-described motor 235A to move the tool holder H3 to be carried out to before the exit. Thereafter, the operator takes out the tool holder H3 to be carried out from the exit.

[0156] <I. Hardware Configuration of Management Device 100> Next, with reference to FIG. 17, the hardware configuration of the management device 100 shown in FIG. 1 above will be described. FIG. 17 is a diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the management device 100.

[0157] The management device 100 includes a control circuit 101, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 102, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 103, a communication interface 104, a display interface 105, an input interface 107, and an auxiliary storage device 120. These components are connected to a bus 110.

[0158] The control circuit 101 is an example of the above-described control unit 50. The control circuit 101 is composed of at least one integrated circuit. The integrated circuit can be composed of, for example, at least one CPU (Central Processing Unit), at least one GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), at least one ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), at least one FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array), or a combination thereof.

[0159] The control circuit 101 controls the operation of the management device 100 by executing various programs such as a control program 122 and an operating system. Based on receiving an execution command for the control program 122, the control circuit 101 reads the control program 122 from the auxiliary storage device 120 or the ROM 102 to the RAM 103. The RAM 103 functions as a working memory and temporarily stores various data required for the execution of the control program 122.

[0160] A LAN (Local Area Network), an antenna, and the like are connected to the communication interface 104. The management device 100 is connected to a network NW1 via the communication interface 104. As a result, the management device 100 exchanges data with external devices connected to the network NW1. The external devices include, for example, a PLC 150 and a server (not shown).

[0161] A display 106 is connected to the display interface 105. The display interface 105 sends an image signal for displaying an image to the display 106 according to a command from the control circuit 101 or the like. The display 106 displays, for example, an operation screen for receiving an interrupt instruction for processing. The display 106 is, for example, a liquid crystal display, an organic EL (Electro Luminescence) display, or other display device. The display 106 may be configured integrally with the management device 100, or may be configured separately from the management device 100.

[0162] An input device 108 is connected to the input interface 107. The input device 108 is, for example, a mouse, a keyboard, a touch panel, or other device capable of accepting user operations. The input device 108 may be configured integrally with the management device 100, or may be configured separately from the management device 100.

[0163] The auxiliary storage device 120 is a storage medium such as a hard disk or a flash memory, for example. The auxiliary storage device 120 stores the control program 122, the above-described work database 124, the above-described processing schedule 126, and the above-described tool database 130, etc. These storage locations are not limited to the auxiliary storage device 120 and may be stored in the storage area of the control circuit 101 (for example, cache memory, etc.), ROM 102, RAM 103, other devices (for example, a server, PLC 150, or operation terminal 200A), etc.

[0164] The control program 122 is a program for realizing part or all of the functional configuration shown in FIG. 5 above. The control program 122 may be provided not as a single program but incorporated into a part of any program. Even a program that does not include such a part of the module does not deviate from the gist of the control program 122 according to the present embodiment. Further, part or all of the functions provided by the control program 122 may be realized by dedicated hardware. Further, the management device 100 may be configured in a form such as a so-called cloud service in which at least one server executes part of the processing of the control program 122.

[0165] <Hardware Configuration of J.PLC150> Next, with reference to FIG. 18, an example of the hardware configuration of the PLC 150 shown in FIG. 3 above will be described. FIG. 18 is a diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the PLC 150.

[0166] The PLC 150 includes a control circuit 151, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 152, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 153, communication interfaces 154 and 155, and an auxiliary storage device 170. These components are connected to a bus 160.

[0167] The control circuit 151 is configured by at least one integrated circuit. The integrated circuit is configured by, for example, at least one CPU, at least one MPU (Micro Processing Unit), at least one ASIC, at least one FPGA, or a combination thereof.

[0168] The control circuit 151 controls the operations of the conveying device 300, the machine tool 400, etc., by executing various programs such as a control program 172. Based on receiving an execution command for the control program 172, the control circuit 151 reads the control program 172 from the auxiliary storage device 170 to the ROM 152. The RAM 153 functions as a working memory, and temporarily stores various data required for the execution of the control program 172.

[0169] A LAN, an antenna, and the like are connected to the communication interface 154. The PLC 150 is connected to the network NW1 via the communication interface 154. As a result, the PLC 150 exchanges data with external devices connected to the network NW1. The external devices include, for example, the management device 100 and a server (not shown).

[0170] The communication interface 155 is an interface for connecting to the network NW2, which is a field network. The PLC 150 exchanges data with external devices connected to the network NW2 via the communication interface 155. The external devices include, for example, the above-mentioned remote I / O units 71 to 73.

[0171] The auxiliary storage device 170 is a storage medium such as a hard disk or a flash memory. The auxiliary storage device 170 stores the control program 172, the above-mentioned tool information 174, the above-mentioned storage information 175, etc. The storage location of these is not limited to the auxiliary storage device 170, and may be stored in a storage area (e.g., a cache area, etc.) of the control circuit 151, the ROM 152, the RAM 153, an external device (e.g., a server), etc.

[0172] The control program 172 is a program for realizing part or all of the functional configuration shown in FIG. 5 above. The control program 172 may be provided not as a single program but incorporated into a part of any program. In this case, the control process according to the present embodiment is realized in cooperation with any program. Even a program that does not include such some modules does not deviate from the gist of the control program 172 according to the present embodiment. Further, part or all of the functions provided by the control program 172 may be realized by dedicated hardware. Further, the PLC 150 may be configured in a form such as a so-called cloud service in which at least one server executes part of the processing of the control program 172.

[0173] <K. Hardware Configuration of the Operation Terminal 200A> Next, with reference to FIG. 19, the hardware configuration of the operation terminal 200A shown in FIG. 2 above will be described. FIG. 19 is a diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the operation terminal 200A.

[0174] The operation terminal 200A includes a control circuit 201, a ROM 202, a RAM 203, a communication interface 204, a display interface 205, an input interface 207, and an auxiliary storage device 220. These components are connected to a bus 210.

[0175] The control circuit 201 is composed of at least one integrated circuit. The integrated circuit can be composed of, for example, at least one CPU, at least one GPU, at least one ASIC, at least one FPGA, or a combination thereof.

[0176] The control circuit 201 controls the operation of the operation terminal 200A by executing various programs such as a control program 222 and an operating system. Based on receiving an execution command for the control program 222, the control circuit 201 reads the control program 222 from the auxiliary storage device 220 or the ROM 202 to the RAM 203. The RAM 203 functions as a working memory and temporarily stores various data required for the execution of the control program 222.

[0177] A LAN, an antenna, and the like are connected to the communication interface 204. The operation terminal 200A is connected to the network NW1 via the communication interface 204. As a result, the operation terminal 200A exchanges data with external devices connected to the network NW1. The external devices include, for example, the PLC 150 and a server (not shown).

[0178] A display 206 is connected to the display interface 205. The display interface 205 sends an image signal for displaying an image to the display 206 in accordance with an instruction from the control circuit 201 or the like. The display 206 displays, for example, an operation screen for receiving an instruction to carry in a tool, a tool selection screen for specifying a tool to be transported, or a machine tool selection screen for specifying a machine tool 400 to be transported. The display 206 is, for example, a liquid crystal display, an organic EL display, or other display device. The display 206 may be configured integrally with the operation terminal 200A, or may be configured separately from the operation terminal 200A.

[0179] An input device 208 is connected to the input interface 207. The input device 208 is, for example, a mouse, a keyboard, a touch panel, or other device capable of receiving a user's operation. The input device 208 may be configured integrally with the operation terminal 200A, or may be configured separately from the operation terminal 200A.

[0180] The auxiliary storage device 220 is a storage medium such as a hard disk or a flash memory, for example. The auxiliary storage device 220 stores the control program 222 of the operation terminal 200A and the like. The storage location of the control program 222 is not limited to the auxiliary storage device 220, and may be stored in the storage area of the control circuit 201 (for example, cache memory or the like), ROM 202, RAM 203, an external device (for example, a server), or the like.

[0181] <Hardware Configuration of Machine Tool 400> Next, with reference to FIG. 20, an example of the hardware configuration of the machine tool 400 shown in FIG. 2 described above will be described. FIG. 20 is a diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the machine tool 400.

[0182] The machine tool 400 includes a CNC 401, a ROM 402, a RAM 403, a communication interface 404, motor drivers 411A to 411D, motors 412A to 412D, encoders 413A to 413D, ball screws 414A and 414B, and a spindle 415 for attaching a tool. These devices are connected via a bus (not shown).

[0183] The CNC 401 is composed of at least one integrated circuit. The integrated circuit is composed of, for example, at least one CPU, at least one MPU, at least one ASIC, at least one FPGA, or a combination thereof.

[0184] The CNC 401 controls the operation of the machine tool 400 by executing various programs such as the machining program 422. The CNC 401 reads the machining program 422 from the auxiliary storage device 420 into the ROM 402 based on receiving an execution command of the machining program 422. The RAM 403 functions as a working memory and temporarily stores various data necessary for the execution of the machining program 422.

[0185] The communication interface 404 is an interface for realizing communication with the PLC 151 via the remote I / O unit 73. The CNC 401 exchanges data with the PLC 151 via the communication interface 404.

[0186] The CNC 401 controls the motor drivers 411A to 411D in accordance with the machining program 422. Each of the motor drivers 411A to 411D may be, for example, a driver for a servo motor or a driver for a stepping motor.

[0187] More specifically, the CNC 401 sequentially outputs a control signal including a target rotation speed (or a target position) to the motor driver 411A. The motor driver 411A calculates the actual rotation speed (or actual position) of the motor 412A from the feedback signal of the encoder 413A, and outputs a current to the motor 412A so that the difference between the actual rotation speed and the target rotation speed becomes small. In this way, the motor driver 411A brings the rotation speed of the motor 412A closer to the target rotation speed while sequentially receiving feedback of the rotation speed of the motor 412A. In this way, the motor driver 411A moves the workpiece placement table connected to the ball screw 414A to an arbitrary position in the X-axis direction.

[0188] Similarly, the CNC 401 sequentially outputs a control signal including a target rotation speed (or target position) to the motor driver 411B. The motor driver 411B calculates the actual rotation speed (or actual position) of the motor 412B from the feedback signal of the encoder 413B, and outputs a current to the motor 412B so that the difference between the actual rotation speed and the target rotation speed becomes small. In this way, the motor driver 411B brings the rotation speed of the motor 412B closer to the target rotation speed while sequentially receiving feedback of the rotation speed of the motor 412B. In this way, the motor driver 411B moves the workpiece placement table connected to the ball screw 414B to an arbitrary position in the Y-axis direction.

[0189] Similarly, the CNC 401 sequentially outputs a control signal including a target rotation speed (or target position) to the motor driver 411C. The motor driver 411C calculates the actual rotation speed (or actual position) of the motor 412C from the feedback signal of the encoder 413C, and outputs a current to the motor 412C so that the difference between the actual rotation speed and the target rotation speed becomes small. In this way, the motor driver 411C brings the rotation speed of the motor 412C closer to the target rotation speed while sequentially receiving feedback of the rotation speed of the motor 412C. In this way, the motor driver 411C moves the spindle 415 to an arbitrary position in the Z-axis direction.

[0190] Similarly, the CNC 401 sequentially outputs a control signal including a target rotation speed (or target position) to the motor driver 411D. The motor driver 411D calculates the actual rotation speed (or actual position) of the motor 412D from the feedback signal of the encoder 413D, and outputs a current to the motor 412D so that the difference between the actual rotation speed and the target rotation speed becomes small. In this way, the motor driver 411D brings the rotation speed of the motor 412D closer to the target rotation speed while sequentially receiving feedback of the rotation speed of the motor 412D. In this way, the motor driver 411D controls the rotation speed of the spindle 415.

[0191] The auxiliary storage device 420 is a storage medium such as a hard disk or a flash memory. The auxiliary storage device 420 stores a machining program 422 and the like. The storage location of the machining program 422 is not limited to the auxiliary storage device 420, and may be stored in a storage area (e.g., a cache area) of the CNC 401, the ROM 402, the RAM 403, an external device (e.g., a server), or the like.

[0192] <M.フローチャート> Next, a control flow relating to the update process of the above-mentioned output screen 80 (see FIG. 12) will be described with reference to Fig. 21. Fig. 21 is a diagram showing a flowchart relating to the update process of the output screen 80.

[0193] 21 is realized by the control circuit 101 of the management device 100 executing the above-described control program 122. In another aspect, a part or all of the process may be executed by circuit elements or other hardware.

[0194] In step S110, the control circuit 101 determines whether or not the timing to update the output screen 80 has arrived. The update timing is arbitrary. As one example, the update timing arrives at a preset cycle. As another example, the update timing arrives based on an operation to update the output screen 80 performed by an operator. The update operation may be accepted by the management device 100 or may be accepted by the work station 200. When the control circuit 101 determines that the timing to update the output screen 80 has arrived (YES in step S110), it switches control to step S112. When not (NO in step S110), the control circuit 101 returns control to step S110.

[0195] In step S112, the control circuit 101 functions as the above-mentioned tool use identification unit 54 (see FIG. 5) and identifies a tool unit to be used in the machining system 10 based on the machining schedule 126 of the machining system 10. The method of identifying the tool unit to be used is as described above, and therefore the description thereof will not be repeated.

[0196] In step S114, the control circuit 101 functions as the above-mentioned missing tool identifying unit 56 (see FIG. 5) and refers to the above-mentioned tool database 130 to identify missing tool units not present in the machining system 10 from among the tool units to be used identified in step S112. The method of identifying the missing tool units is as described above, and therefore the description thereof will not be repeated.

[0197] In step S116, the control circuit 101 functions as the above-mentioned similar tool identification unit 58 (see FIG. 5) and identifies tool units of the same classification as the missing tool unit identified in step S114 by referring to the above-mentioned tool database 130. The method of identifying tool units of the same classification is as described above, and therefore the description thereof will not be repeated.

[0198] In step S118, the control circuit 101 functions as the above-mentioned output unit 62 (see FIG. 5), and refers to the above-mentioned tool database 130 to identify location information of the tool units of the same classification identified in step S116, and outputs the location information of the tool units of the same classification. The location information is output, for example, as the above-mentioned output screen 80. The output destination of the output screen 80 is arbitrary. As one example, the output screen 80 is displayed on the display 106 of the management device 100. As another example, the output screen 80 is transmitted to the operation terminal 200A and displayed on the display 206 of the operation terminal 200A.

[0199] When the process of step S118 ends, the control circuit 101 returns the process to step S110.

[0200] The embodiments disclosed herein should be considered to be illustrative and not restrictive in all respects. The scope of the present invention is defined by the claims, not the above description, and is intended to include all modifications within the meaning and scope of the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0201] 1 Management system, 10 Machining system, 10A Machining system, 10B Machining system, 50 Control unit, 52 Schedule generation unit, 54 Tool use identification unit, 56 Missing tool identification unit, 58 Similar tool identification unit, 62 Output unit, 71 Remote I / O unit, 72 Remote I / O unit, 73 Remote I / O unit, 80 Output screen, 85 Summary information, 90A Date and time information, 90B Classification information, 90C Job information, 90D Destination information, 90E Location information, 90F Identification information, 90G Location information, 90H Location information, 90I Location information, 90J Location information, 91A Location information, 91B Location information, 91C Location information, 91D Location information, 100 Management device, 101 Control circuit, 102 ROM, 103 RAM, 104 Communication interface, 105 Display interface, 106 Display, 107 Input interface, 108 Input device, 110 Bus, 120 Auxiliary storage device, 122 Control program, 123 Machining setting, 124 Work database, 126 Machining schedule, 130 Tool database, 131 Tool information, 151 Control circuit, 152 ROM, 153 RAM, 154 Communication interface, 155 Communication interface, 160 Bus, 170 Auxiliary storage device, 172 Control program, 174 Tool information, 175 Storage information, 200 Work station, 200A Operation terminal, 201 Control circuit, 202 ROM, 203 RAM, 204 Communication interface, 205 Display interface, 206 Display, 207 Input interface, 208 Input device, 210 Bus, 220 Auxiliary storage device, 222 Control program, 234 Motor driver, 234A Motor driver, 234B motor driver, 235 motor, 235A motor, 235B motor, 250 tool storage section, 300 conveying device, 330 arm robot, 331 rail, 332 cart, 334 motor driver, 334A motor driver, 334B motor driver, 335 motor, 335A motor, 335B motor, 336 temporary storage area, 400 machine tool, 400A machine tool, 400B machine tool, 400C machine tool, 400D machine tool, 400E machine tool, 400F machine tool, 402 ROM, 403 RAM, 404Communication interface, 411A motor driver, 411B motor driver, 411C motor driver, 411D motor driver, 412A motor, 412B motor, 412C motor, 412D motor, 413A encoder, 413B encoder, 413C encoder, 413D encoder, 414A ball screw, 414B ball screw, 415 spindle, 420 auxiliary storage device, 422 machining program, FA factory, H1 tool holder, H2 tool holder, H3 tool holder, M1 magazine, NW1 network, NW2 network, T1 tool, ΔT predetermined time.

Claims

1. A tool identification unit for identifying tool units to be used within a machining system within a predetermined time based on the machining schedule of a workpiece in the machining system, A tool shortage identification unit for identifying tool units that are lacking in the machining system from among the tool units to be used, The system includes a tool database relating to multiple tool units, and for each of the multiple tool units, the tool database defines the classification of the tool unit and location information indicating the location of the tool unit. Based on the tool database, a tool identification unit for identifying tool units of the same classification as the missing tool unit, A tool management device comprising: an output unit for outputting location information of the tool unit of the same classification and the number of tool units of the same classification present at the location indicated by the location information.

2. The aforementioned processing system is Machine tools and, A tool storage section configured to accommodate multiple tool units, A work station for workers to perform tasks on a tool unit, The tool management device according to claim 1, comprising a conveying device for conveying a designated tool unit from among the tool units in the machine tool, the tool units in the tool storage unit, and the tool units in the work station to a designated destination among the machine tool, the tool storage unit, and the work station.

3. The tool management device according to claim 2, wherein the location indicated by the location information is a location within the processing system or a location outside the processing system.

4. The tool management device according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the location within the processing system includes at least one of the machine tool, the tool storage unit, and the work station.

5. The tool database further defines the state of each of the plurality of tool units, and the state includes a usable state and a non-usable state. The tool management device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the output unit outputs location information relating to a tool unit that is unusable among the tool units of the same classification in a different manner from the location information relating to a tool unit that is usable among the tool units of the same classification.

6. A management device for managing information of multiple tool units, Equipped with a processing system, The aforementioned control device is A tool identification unit for identifying tool units to be used within the machining system within a predetermined time, based on the machining schedule of the workpiece in the aforementioned machining system, A tool shortage identification unit for identifying tool units that are lacking in the machining system from among the tool units to be used, The system includes a tool database relating to the plurality of tool units, and the tool database defines, for each of the plurality of tool units, the classification of the tool unit and location information indicating the location of the tool unit. The aforementioned control device further, Based on the tool database, a tool identification unit for identifying tool units of the same classification as the missing tool unit, A tool management system comprising an output unit for outputting location information of tool units of the same classification and the number of tool units of the same classification located at the location indicated by the location information.

7. A step of identifying a tool unit to be used in the machining system within a predetermined time based on the machining schedule of the workpiece in the machining system, The steps include identifying the tool units that are lacking in the machining system from among the tool units to be used, The process includes the step of obtaining a tool database relating to multiple tool units, wherein the tool database defines, for each of the multiple tool units, the classification of the tool unit and location information indicating the location of the tool unit. The steps include identifying a tool unit of the same classification as the missing tool unit based on the tool database, A management method comprising the steps of outputting location information of a tool unit of the same classification and the number of tool units of the same classification located at the location indicated by the location information.

8. A management program, The aforementioned management program is installed on the computer. A step of identifying the tool unit to be used within the machining system within a predetermined time, based on the machining schedule of the workpiece in the machining system, The steps include identifying the tool units that are lacking in the machining system from among the tool units to be used, The process involves executing the step of obtaining a tool database relating to multiple tool units, wherein the tool database defines, for each of the multiple tool units, the classification of the tool unit and location information indicating the location of the tool unit. The management program further provides the computer with: The steps include identifying a tool unit of the same classification as the missing tool unit based on the tool database, A management program that performs the steps of outputting location information of the tool unit of the same classification and the number of tool units of the same classification located at the location indicated by the location information.

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