Operating method for numerically controlled machine tool

Abstract

To provide a method to operate a numerically controlled machine tool for designing, creating, modifying, and / or executing a sequence program for machining a workpiece.SOLUTION: Provided is a method comprising at least: a step for displaying a project library having multiple project templates on a graphical user interface, each project template including a pre-configured operation sequence for machining a workpiece according to the sequence program; a step for selecting a project template by the user; a step to display parameters for setting multiple process parameters for the sequence program on the user interface; and a step for setting multiple process parameters by the user and storing the process parameters.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 7

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a method for operating a numerically controlled machine tool, an operating device for a numerically controlled machine tool, a control device for a numerically controlled machine tool, and a machine tool. In particular, the present invention enables a program sequence for machining a workpiece to be directly created in the control device of the machine tool, and can omit a software application on a PC. [Background technology]

[0002] In the prior art it is known to control workpiece machining on a numerically controlled machine tool by means of an NC controller which is usually integrated on the machine tool, in particular the NC controller controls controllable actuators, such as spindle drives of the axes of the machine tool, axis drives and further machine functions of the machine tool, based on an NC program which is for example generated by a CAD / CAM system or programmed by a machine operator.

[0003] In EP 2891020 A1 an extended control device for a numerically controlled machine tool is proposed, in which a further control or operating device is provided above the NC controller which extends the operation or control of the operator of the machine tool compared to the functions of the NC controller.

[0004] European Patent Application No. EP3767405A1 discloses an operating device for use on a numerically controlled machine tool, and a system, device and method for operating and controlling one or more numerically controlled machine tools in a production system. Machining jobs for machining one or more workpieces on the machine tool are controlled based on machining sequences selectable by an operator via a user interface, and corresponding machine or control functions are invoked on the controller via a control interface.

[0005] German Patent Application DE102019215497A1 describes a method for controlling a numerically controlled machine tool on the basis of control data provided on a control device of the machine tool and having an NC program which is analysed on the control device to identify a subdivision of the NC program into a plurality of program sections indicated in the control data, and a graphical user interface is generated on the control device on the basis of the program sections according to the subdivision of the NC program.

[0006] Originally, there were parts where programs for machining workpieces on numerically controlled machine tools had to be programmed in G-code. Due to the high complexity of such programs, even a person skilled in the art can quickly lose the overview. Therefore, there is a need to make the programming of entire machining operations or sequences on the control device simpler. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0007] Starting from the prior art, the programming of machine tools should be simplified. In particular, programming should be made more efficient and intuitive. Furthermore, errors in programming should be avoided in that, for example, logic tests or plausibility tests are already performed during the construction of the program sequence. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] According to a first aspect of the invention there is provided a method for operating a numerically controlled machine tool as claimed in claim 1. A second aspect of the invention relates to an operating device for a numerically controlled machine tool as claimed in claim 18. A third aspect of the invention relates to a control device as claimed in claim 20 and a fourth aspect relates to a machine tool as claimed in claim 21. Further aspects of the invention are set out in the dependent claims, the drawings and the following description of exemplary embodiments.

[0009] The method according to the invention allows a user to generate, in a particularly intuitive manner, a sequence program for a numerically controlled machine tool for machining a workpiece directly by means of a corresponding input device on the machine control device, for which purpose the user is provided with a graphical user interface as human-machine interface for inputting user input information and outputting output information to the user.

[0010] The graphical user interface can be displayed in particular on a touch screen of the machine control, which preferably allows gesture control. Program sequences can be visually displayed to the user via the graphical user interface, so that the sequences are simple and intuitive to create, understandable and easy to process. Furthermore, the parameters can be visually shown by means of images or animations, in order to make this aspect of processing particularly intuitive. Further preferably, the operation of the graphical user interface should be particularly simple and intuitive to perform. Further preferably, certain sequences of a project template can be displayed in a detailed view.

[0011] A project template is, for example, an NC program with preconfigured sequences for the manufacture of a part or the machining of a workpiece without part-specific or workpiece-specific program content, which can then be supplemented by the user himself.

[0012] More preferably, the graphical user interface can be implemented as part of an app, in particular as a CELOS app or as PC software, and can be used via a desktop computer or as a cloud-based application to create programs for one or more machine tools. Particularly preferably, the app can also be implemented on a smartphone or tablet computer.

[0013] In a method step, a project library having a plurality of project templates is displayed on a user interface, each project template including a preconfigured sequence of operations for processing a workpiece according to a sequence program, the project templates preferably being capable of being created, modified and saved by a user.

[0014] When a user selects a project template, for example, a parameter view for setting a number of process parameters for a sequence program can be displayed in the user interface. The number of process parameters can be edited by the user on the graphical user interface. The process parameters can then be saved. The parameter view can be visually displayed, particularly together with an explanatory diagram.

[0015] In an editor window of the user interface, a schedule including operations and sequences of operations is displayed, for example, as a table with rows and columns. Each individual cell of the table can represent an individual operation (work step or processing step). The rows are executed consecutively, for example, from top to bottom, in the order in which they are displayed. Cells in the same row but in different columns can represent steps that are executed simultaneously, for example.

[0016] The individual operations or operations may in particular be individual work steps describing, for example, how a bezel should be moved. In other words, the individual operations may in particular define individual movements of actuators of a machine tool. The entire schedule may describe the machining of a workpiece, for example a cutting operation.

[0017] Furthermore, an operation library with a number of operation templates is displayed on the user interface. The operation templates correspond to individual operations or work steps that can be adjusted to the desired processing of the workpiece by adjusting parameters. The parameters of the operations can be, for example, the path of movement, a number of coordinates, the rotational speed of the spindle, the tool to be used, etc.

[0018] A user can generate a sequence program by selecting operation templates and placing them in desired positions (cells) in the schedule. Furthermore, the user can rearrange operation templates already placed in the schedule. This selection and placing or rearrangement can be performed, for example, by a "drag and drop" operation. Afterwards, the parameters of the operation templates can be adjusted. The parameters can also preferably be adjusted automatically if the parameters have already been set in another step.

[0019] The schedule can be perfected by repeated selection and arrangement and / or rearrangement of the operation templates. Afterwards, according to the schedule and the process parameters, a sequence program with corresponding machine and / or control functions is generated and output, for example, via a control interface to the control device of the machine tool. In particular, the program can be compiled into a G-code based on the created schedule. Particularly preferably, the corresponding G-code or NC-code can be displayed and processed in a further window. The processing of the code can also preferably be fed back to the visual schedule. In other words, the content of the sequence program or the operations can preferably be synchronized bidirectionally between the visual display and the NC control device. In this case, all changes made can preferably be highlighted and any conflicts that have occurred can be displayed.

[0020] The operating device comprises a processing device for executing a control and operating application, a control interface for connecting the processing device to a control device of the machine tool, and a user interface for displaying a graphical user interface as a human machine interface for receiving input information by a user and for outputting output information to the user. According to the invention, the processing device is adapted to perform the method according to the invention.

[0021] A control device according to the invention for a numerically controlled machine tool having a control device for controlling the machine functions of the machine tool comprises an operating device according to the invention which is connected or connectable to the control device.

[0022] Preferred embodiments and modifications, which can be used individually or in combination with one another, are set out in the dependent claims.

[0023] The visual schedule can preferably be converted into G-code or NC-code and displayed in an editor. As an editor for editing the schedule, a smart editor can be used, which can in particular detect and highlight syntax and semantic errors. NC commands can preferably be automatically supplemented or completed during input. Particularly preferably, an AI can be integrated that helps the user to generate a sequence program, for example by generating NC-code in the editor, after the user has written a prompt, for example via chat input.

[0024] The editor for the NC code and / or the editor for editing the visual schedule of a multi-channel CNC machine tool can in particular be embodied as a browser-based application that can run on a user's control device, a PC, a server or a mobile terminal. The editor serves for the graphically supported design, creation and modification of NC programs, preferably independently of the machine tool control device. Here, in particular multi-touch gestures can be used.

[0025] Pre-configured and user-friendly visualized project and program templates can enable fast, intuitive and simple construction of schedules. The NC programs generated therefrom can be constructed in a particularly parameterized and structured manner and can include pre-configured operation commands for the machine tool peripherals (e.g. rod loaders and robots), raw and finished part handling (e.g. rod advancement, part transfer, bezel positioning, finished part unloading, etc.).

[0026] Particularly preferably, an optimized sequence program for the NC control is generated as a result with the associated program structure, which can be sent to the NC memory of the machine tool control and kept constantly bidirectionally synchronized with the schedule contents.

[0027] Preferably, the project templates are employed in a parameterized manner, where the parameters can preferably be adjusted or set and saved in separate windows of the graphical user interface, whereby illustrations can preferably be displayed that show the meaning of the individual parameters, for example based on sketches or animations (e.g. GIF files), etc.

[0028] Each operation template may in particular be a subprogram that includes preconfigured machining templates that allow the user to design, for example, part-specific or workpiece-specific machining parts. The operation template includes, for example, a basic definition of machining surfaces (for example, end faces, surface planes, etc.). Each subprogram may include, for example, a portion of preprogrammed NC code. The operation templates can preferably be created or edited by the user and saved. As in the case of the project templates, for each operation template an explanatory diagram, for example an animation or drawing, can be displayed, which graphically explains the operation of the operation template so that the user can grasp the function within a few seconds. Preferably, the specific content of the operation template or the corresponding NC code, etc. can be displayed in a further view.

[0029] The selection and arrangement or rearrangement of the operation templates and operations can particularly preferably be performed by gesture control, which can include, for example, drag and drop ("drag and drop"), so that a particularly simple and intuitive editing by the user can be made possible.

[0030] Preferably, the operation templates and operations can be dynamically adjusted to the desired position in the schedule during selection and placement and / or rearrangement, respectively. This dynamic adjustment can be performed in particular as a function of existing operation templates and operations in the schedule. It can thus be ensured that the individual operation templates and operations are compatible with each other. The check can be performed, for example, by a plausibility check or a logical test. Here, it is checked, for example, whether an operation of a first channel is simultaneously compatible with an operation of a further channel, or in what order the respective operations can be advantageously performed. To enable this, each operation template can have NC code sections or check sequences that can be compared with corresponding NC code sections or check sequences of other operation templates in the schedule.

[0031] Particularly preferably, collisions can be avoided by checking and evaluating the individual operations already during the addition and / or shifting of the operation template, for example in that previously checked movement paths are used. Furthermore, the operation templates can be optimized in advance in order to make the sequences particularly efficient and low-risk or collision-free.

[0032] The available positions in the schedule can be dynamically adjusted during the selection and placement and / or re-placement of an operation template or operation. For example, free cells in a tabular schedule can already be checked for compatibility during the selection of an operation template. Correspondingly, only technically favorable cells can be displayed as available destinations for placement. If a user attempts to place an operation template in an unavailable or incompatible cell, this can be prevented or a corresponding instruction can be output.

[0033] The sequence program can preferably be generated automatically according to the schedule: for this purpose, for example, a suitable compiler can be used which converts the graphical schedule into a corresponding machine code or NC code.

[0034] The control structures may be automatically and dynamically generated and / or adjusted during the selection and placement of operational templates within the schedule. The control structures may include, for example, jump marks.

[0035] The settable process parameters may depend in particular on the machine tool used. Particularly preferably, the settable process parameters are displayed graphically. Particularly simple and intuitive operation can be facilitated by the graphical display.

[0036] Preferably, the process parameters are: The dimensions of the chucking means of the work spindle; The clamping force of the work spindle, The zero point of the workpiece, The dimensions of the workpiece, Includes at least one of the following:

[0037] Dimensions and positions can preferably be given in millimeters or inches. Preferably, a three-dimensional or two-dimensional diagram can be displayed that illustratively represents these dimensions and positions.

[0038] The schedule includes a graphical, interactive display with a row for each operation and a column for each tool carrier (channel) and each work carrier (rotating spindle). In a milling machine, a channel can correspond to a tool carrier (milling spindle).

[0039] Each schedule may have a row for each tool carrier and each workpiece carrier. Each workpiece may be clamped to the main spindle and / or the counter spindle.

[0040] Preferably, the method can be integrated into the control of the machine tool. Particularly preferably, the method is executed by an application on the control of the machine tool. In alternative embodiments, the application or parts of the application can also be executed on a computer, in the cloud or on a geographically remote server.

[0041] The plurality of operations preferably comprises: Accepting sequence programs associated with the schedule; Equipping or preparing the machine tool with one or more chucking means required by the sequence program; Setting one or more tools required for the sequence program on the machine tool; Loading and / or preparing one or more tools required by the sequence program on the machine tool; Loading and / or programming one or more NC codes, NC programs and / or NC program parts required for the sequence program; Executing one or more NC codes, NC programs and / or NC program parts required by a sequence program; running a process monitoring application; recording one or more machining processes associated with a sequence program; Carrying out an automatic quality check of one or more machined workpieces; Outputting a sequence program; Automatically assembling work pallets; Automatic loading of work pallets; Automatically repositioning the workpieces on the work pallet; Setting the clamping position of the workpiece; Changing from one clamping position to another; Automatic measurement of the workpiece, Automatically loading tool magazines of machine tools; Automatically setting tools on the machine tool; Automatically rearrange tools in the tool magazine, and / or performing one or more cleaning, maintenance, service and / or service applications on the machine tool; It may include at least one of the following:

[0042] The input information is model data indicative of CAD models of one or more workpieces, one or more workpiece components, and / or one or more tools; NC data representing one or more NC codes, one or more NC programs and / or one or more NC program segments; Job data indicating job data related to the work processing; Tool data indicating information about one or more associated tools; Tool list data indicating a sequence program or a list of tools related to the workpiece processing, Chucking means data indicating information regarding one or more associated chucking means; and / or Chucking means list data indicating a list of sequence programs or chucking means respectively related to workpiece processing; It may contain one or more elements from

[0043] Each project template can preferably include animations and / or textual descriptions and / or graphical illustrations of the sequences contained in the project template. Furthermore, audio output can explain the operations of the project template. A graphical display of the operations allows the user to understand particularly quickly and easily which operations are performed by the machine. The animations or descriptions can also particularly preferably be dynamically adjusted to changed parameters of the project template.

[0044] The preferred operating device comprises a network interface for connecting the processing device to a server. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0045] Further advantageous embodiments are explained in more detail below with reference to exemplary embodiments shown in the drawings, to which the invention is not limited, the drawings being schematic.

[0046] [Figure 1] 1 illustrates a graphical user interface for selecting a project template. [Diagram 2] 4 shows the settings mask for global project parameters. [Diagram 3] 1 illustrates an example view of a library with operational templates. [Figure 4] 1 illustrates an example view of a graphical user interface for creating a schedule. [Diagram 5] 1 shows a smart editor with intelligent functions. [Figure 6] 1 shows an example view with a schedule and G-code. [Figure 7] 1 shows an exemplary schedule. [Figure 8] The parameter settings for integrated handling are shown below. [Figure 9] The operation template for rotation in plane G18 is shown. [Figure 10] 1 shows an operation template for drilling holes. [Figure 11] 1 shows a scanning template for measuring outer diameter. [Figure 12] 1 shows a flow chart illustrating an exemplary embodiment of a method according to the present invention. [Figure 13] FIG. 1 shows a schematic diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a machine tool with NC control. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0047] In the following description of preferred embodiments of the present invention, the same reference numbers indicate the same or equivalent components.

[0048] FIG. 1 shows a graphical user interface for selecting a project template. This view can be displayed as a home screen, for example, as a quick entry to create a schedule. On the left side, an overview of the project templates is shown, which represents a section of a library with multiple project templates. For each project template, a descriptive image is displayed as a short visual description. When the user touches or places the mouse pointer over such an overview image, for example, a short animation of the corresponding sequence can be displayed.

[0049] The right side of the screen in Figure 1 shows the details of the currently selected project template. For example, the creator, version, creation date, description, etc. can be displayed. The top area of ​​the screen shows the menu selections that allow the user to select the project template selection screen, the operation template selection screen, the configuration selection screen, etc. By clicking on the link "Create project", a new schedule can be created based on the selected project template.

[0050] FIG. 2 shows a setting mask for global project or process parameters. This can be displayed, for example, after selecting a project template. In this example, clamping parameters, for example of the main spindle and / or the counter spindle, such as the clamping force or the clamping force range, can be set. Furthermore, in this case, for example the dimensions of the chucking means, the zero point of the part, the dimensions of the workpiece, etc. can be set and / or changed.

[0051] FIG. 3 shows an exemplary view of a library with operation templates. The displayed operation templates can be divided into functional groups, such as, for example, turning, milling, drilling, measuring, clamping, etc. Each operation template is displayed with an explanatory image that allows the user to particularly quickly recognize and understand the corresponding operation. Operations can be defined by dragging an operation template into the schedule. For example, the user can drag the desired operation template into the main or counter spindle or into the channel 1 or channel 2 position in the schedule. All synchronization marks (wait) or filling operations required for this can now be generated automatically. These synchronization marks (or jump marks) allow a safe break-off and re-entry into the NC program of the production.

[0052] For each operation template, a details view can be invoked that describes the operation template in detail and allows additional information to be displayed.

[0053] 4 shows an exemplary view of a graphical user interface for creating a schedule for a machine tool having a main spindle SP4 and a counter spindle SP3. In the case of a two-channel machine, each spindle is furthermore shown in each case with two channels CH1 and CH2. The schedule ("Operation Schedule" in FIG. 4) here has several rows which are executed consecutively in order from top to bottom.

[0054] Figure 5 shows a smart editor with intelligent functions. The editor is part of the application for generating sequence programs and allows the machining of NC code or G code. The editor can represent the G code in a structured way, allowing easy navigation between the individual operations. NC commands can be verified by the editor to avoid conflicts. The represented code corresponds to the operations in the schedule and can be automatically adjusted depending on the remaining operations. In a preferred embodiment, the user can be assisted by AI to automatically generate or complete the G code.

[0055] Figure 6 shows an example view with a schedule and G-code. On the left side is the area where the schedule will be displayed when executing the generated sequence program. On the right side are the current values ​​of the controllers.

[0056] FIG. 7 shows an example schedule, where the schedule is a workpiece-specific layout plan for all tools used. The schedule shows which machining operations are used with which tools for which features on the part. As a result of the simplified display, the user can easily change and adapt the order (position) and content of each operation. The user can simply tap on an operation and from there, call or compensate the tools used or change parameters.

[0057] In this example, each operation in the schedule is displayed as a tile or rectangle with a brief description. Additionally, icons are shown that can display further information about the tool or operation used. By tapping or clicking on the tile, further information can be displayed or changes can be made. Individual tiles in the schedule can be moved and reordered by "drag and drop".

[0058] FIG. 8 shows the parameter setting of the integrated handling. In this case, the use of the integrated handling as a pick-up device requires the input of different setting parameters. These parameters are defined as RG variables. The clear assignment of parameters to variables seen in the figure allows the user a safe operation and intuitive handling of the pick-up device. FIG. 8 shows as an example the unloading of a finished workpiece from the counter spindle (SP3) by the unloading device.

[0059] Figure 9 shows an operation template for rotation in the plane G18. This display visualizes the rotation plane G18 by a marked surface on the XZ plane of the coordinate system on the workpiece. The operation template provides the user with a program envelope with basic technological data. These include the selection of the machining plane, the approach and departure movements on the workpiece as well as the possibility to incorporate cutting values, coolant commands and tools into the NC code by entering them in the "property mask" of the respective operation template. The user can then supplement the workpiece-specific program code.

[0060] FIG. 10 shows an operation template for drilling. The illustrated diagram shows a specific strategy for radial drilling in the operation template. The template allows the programming of the drilling in individual feed sequences so that a controlled chip breakage can occur in the case of long chip material. The working and withdrawal feeds and the dwell times at the end of the feed can be freely defined by the user. The template can be applied to radially outer and inner drilling.

[0061] Figure 11 shows an operation template for measuring the outer diameter. The operation template contains a complete measurement strategy for the outer diameter, including the possibility to compensate the tool with the measured value. The measurement is performed by differential measurement in the negative and positive direction of the Y axis. The cycles used for this are filled with content via parameters from the input mask of the operation template. Furthermore, the template contains the generation of a measurement log as a file on the control device.

[0062] 12 shows a flow chart illustrating an exemplary embodiment of the method according to the invention for generating a structured NC program (sequence program). Steps that are no longer required compared to the conventional method are shown with dashed lines. The method according to the invention for generating a sequence program eliminates many steps that were previously necessary, and therefore the method is significantly simpler and more time-saving.

[0063] According to the invention, a sequence program is automatically generated with its sequence logic based on a schedule that the user can prepare on a graphical user interface by simple gesture controls. For example, saved templates for part handling or automation are prepared parametrically, so that the user can simply take them over and easily adjust them as needed. Thus, the generation of sequence programs can be greatly simplified, which can result in considerable time savings and avoidance of potential errors.

[0064] 13 shows a schematic diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a machine tool 1000 with a corresponding NC controller 1100. The NC controller 1100 (also called controller) has a storage device 1130 configured to provide control data for the NC controller 1100 of the machine tool 1000. The control data may be transmitted to the storage device 1130, for example, from an external computer or via a network to which the NC controller 1100 is connected (e.g., having multiple connected computers) (not shown here). However, this is intended to be merely exemplary. A flow chart generated according to the method according to the invention includes control data for controlling the machine tool 1000.

[0065] Of course, there is also the further possibility of transmitting control data to the storage device 1130, for example by connecting a portable data memory to the storage device 1130 (or to the NC control device 1100 in general) so that the data is transmitted to the storage device 1130.

[0066] The NC controller 1100 has a data processing device 1140 which can be configured to analyze the control data on the NC controller 1100 in order to identify a subdivision of the NC program 200 into a plurality of program sections 210 indicated in the control data. The NC program 200 can be subdivided by the data processing device 1140, for example, according to the operations arranged therein which the machine tool 1000 will execute on the part / workpiece WS to be manufactured. For this purpose, for example, corresponding commands can be identified as indicators of new operations and thus a subdivision of the NC program 200 can be executed correspondingly.

[0067] Further, the NC control device 1100 has a human-machine interface 1150 configured to generate and / or provide a graphical user interface 100 that can be operated on the NC control device 1100 by an operator of the machine tool 1000 based on the multiple program sections 210 in accordance with an identification of the subdivisions of the NC program 200 indicated in the control data.

[0068] In this case, the human-machine interface 1150 can be designed such that image / information reproduction of the graphical user interface 100 (e.g., via a screen) is performed separately from control / command input on the NC control device 1100 (e.g., via a keyboard with a mouse, etc.), or the control / command input is performed integrated into the image / information reproduction of the graphical user interface 100 (e.g., as a virtual mouse and mouse designed to be controllably generated within the graphical user interface 100 by touch by the operator).

[0069] In particular, the graphical user interface 100 may comprise a number of control elements 110, each of which is associated with one of the program sections 210 of the NC program 200. The control elements 110 may be displayed only on an image / information reproduction of the graphical user interface 100 or may be controllably integrated into the graphical user interface 100 by touch by an operator. In particular, the graphical user interface 100 may represent the above-mentioned schedule.

[0070] As a result, an operator can adjust the NC program 200, for example, by configuring at least one of the control elements 110 of the graphical user interface 100 such that a corresponding associated program section 210 can be activated or deactivated by the operator, for example, by individual operations that are added, shifted, or removed within the schedule.

[0071] In addition to the NC control device 1100, the machine tool 1000, shown here by way of example in a stand design in FIG. 13, comprises a machine bed 1400, a machine table 1200 having a work chuck 1210 for chucking a workpiece WS, a work spindle 1300 for driving a tool WZ for machining the workpiece WS, and a stand structure 1500.

[0072] In addition, the machine tool 1000 may have a tool changer and / or workpiece changer, and correspondingly a tool magazine and / or a workpiece magazine (in each case not shown in FIG. 13), so that corresponding commands and / or parameters may be provided for machining in the NC program 200 to control these additional devices in turn, e.g. to enable machining to be performed in an automated manner. Each of these elements may have a dedicated channel or column in the schedule.

[0073] This can further have the consequence that the corresponding associated program section 210 can be activated by the operator only if it is established that the tool WZ required for the machining operation corresponding to the program section 210 is provided in the tool magazine of the machine tool 1000. If not (the tool WZ is not provided), the NC control device 1100 deactivates the corresponding program section 210 in the graphical user interface 100. In other words, the schedule does not have a corresponding column or table cell of the schedule can be correspondingly activated or deactivated.

[0074] As already mentioned, the method according to the invention and the control device according to the invention (NC control device 200) are also suitable for other machine types (gantry machines, multi-axis milling centers, etc.) and / or machine types (e.g. lathes, multi-spindle lathes, erosion machines, laser deposition welding machines, etc.) The list of mentioned examples should not be understood as exhaustive, but rather can be extended, for example, by various combinations of machine types / machine models and should also include additional machine types / machine models of machine tools.

Claims

1. 1. A method of operating a numerically controlled machine tool for designing, creating, modifying, and / or executing a sequence program for machining a workpiece, the method comprising: providing a graphical user interface as a human-machine interface for receiving input information by a user and for outputting output information to the user; displaying, on the user interface, a project library having a plurality of project templates, each project template including a preconfigured sequence of operations for machining the workpiece according to the sequence program; selecting a project template by a user; displaying, on the user interface, a parameter display for setting a plurality of process parameters for the sequence program; setting the plurality of process parameters by the user and saving the process parameters; displaying, on the user interface, a schedule including a plurality of operations and an order of the plurality of operations; displaying, on the user interface, an operation library having a plurality of operation templates; Selecting an operation template by the user and placing the operation template at a desired position of an operation in the schedule; and / or rearranging operation templates within the schedule; repeating said selection and arrangement and / or rearrangement of operational templates until said schedule is completed; and generating a sequence program having corresponding machine and / or control functions according to the schedule and the process parameters, and outputting the sequence program to a control device of the machine tool via a control interface; Including, How to operate a numerically controlled machine tool.

2. The project template is employed in a parameterized manner; and / or Each operation template is a subprogram that contains preconfigured processing templates. The method of claim 1.

3. the selection and arrangement or rearrangement of the operation templates and operations is performed by gesture control; The method according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The gesture control includes drag and drop. The method according to claim 3.

5. the operation templates and operations are dynamically adjusted to the desired positions within the schedule during the selection and placement and / or rearrangement, respectively; 10. A method according to any one of the preceding claims.

6. the available positions within the schedule are dynamically adjusted during the selection and placement and / or rearrangement of operation templates or operations.

10. A method according to any one of the preceding claims.

7. The sequence program is automatically generated according to the schedule.

10. A method according to any one of the preceding claims.

8. a control structure is dynamically generated and / or adjusted during the selection and placement of operational templates within the schedule; 10. A method according to any one of the preceding claims.

9. the configurable process parameters are dependent on the machine tool; and / or The configurable process parameters are displayed graphically.

10. A method according to any one of the preceding claims.

10. The process parameters are: The dimensions of the chucking means of the work spindle; A clamping force of the work spindle; The zero point of the workpiece, The dimensions of the workpiece, At least one of:

10. A method according to any one of the preceding claims.

11. the schedule being a graphical, interactive display having a row for each operation and a column for each tool carrier and each workpiece carrier; 10. A method according to any one of the preceding claims.

12. the schedule having a column for each tool carrier and each work carrier; 10. A method according to any one of the preceding claims.

13. The method comprises: an application on a control device of the machine tool, the control device having an input medium for inputting input information by a user; or An application on a computer, or Applications in the cloud or on geographically remote servers, Executed by 10. A method according to any one of the preceding claims.

14. The plurality of operations include: accepting a sequence program associated with said schedule; Equipping or preparing one or more chucking means required by the sequence program on the machine tool; setting one or more tools required for the sequence program on the machine tool; Loading and / or preparing one or more tools required by the sequence program on the machine tool; loading and / or programming one or more NC codes, NC programs and / or NC program portions required for said sequence program; Executing one or more NC codes, NC programs and / or NC program portions required by said sequence program; running a process monitoring application; recording one or more machining processes associated with said sequence program; performing an automated quality check of one or more machined workpieces; and / or outputting the sequence program; At least one of:

10. A method according to any one of the preceding claims.

15. The plurality of operations include: Automatically assembling work pallets; Automatic loading of work pallets; Automatically repositioning the workpieces on the work pallet; Setting the clamping position of the workpiece; Changing from one clamping position to another; Automatic measurement of the workpiece, automatically loading a tool magazine of the machine tool; automatically setting a tool on the machine tool; Automatically rearranging tools in the tool magazine; and / or performing one or more cleaning, maintenance, service and / or service applications on the machine tool; At least one of: The method of claim 14.

16. The input information is model data indicative of CAD models of one or more workpieces, one or more workpiece parts, and / or one or more tools; NC data indicative of one or more NC codes, one or more NC programs, and / or one or more NC program portions; Job data indicating job data related to the work processing; tool data indicating information about one or more associated tools; Tool list data indicating a sequence program or a list of tools related to the workpiece processing, Chucking means data indicating information regarding one or more associated chucking means; and / or Chucking means list data indicating a list of sequence programs or chucking means respectively related to workpiece processing; including one or more of:

10. A method according to any one of the preceding claims.

17. each project template includes an animation and / or an explanation and / or a graphical illustration of the sequence included in said project template; 10. A method according to any one of the preceding claims.

18. An operating device for a numerically controlled machine tool, comprising: a processing unit for executing control and manipulation applications; a control interface for connecting the processing unit to a control unit of the machine tool; and a user interface for displaying a graphical user interface as a human-machine interface for receiving input information by a user and for outputting output information to the user; Equipped with The processing device is configured to perform the method according to any one of claims 1 to 17. An operating device for numerically controlled machine tools.

19. further comprising a network interface for connecting the processing device to a server; The operating device according to claim 18.

20. A control device for controlling a machine function of the machine tool, and an operating device according to any one of claims 18 and 19, which is connected to or connectable to the control device. A control device for a numerically controlled machine tool.

21. A machine tool having the control device according to claim 20.

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