Processing system

Abstract

To provide a processing system that is able to reduce labor for replacing a processing tip-tool.SOLUTION: A processing system S1 includes: a power supply device A1 that selectively switches a plurality of processing methods and outputs processing power according to the selected processing method; and a switching unit B1 to which the processing power is input. The switching device B1 includes an input-terminal 20 for processing power; a first output-terminal 21 and a second output-terminal 22; and a switching unit 23 that switches between a first connection state in which the first output-terminal 21 is electrically connected to the input-terminal 20 and a second connection state in which the second output-terminal 22 is electrically connected to the input-terminal 20. The power source device A1 includes: a setting unit 12 that selectively sets a plurality of processing methods; and a power source unit 11 that outputs processing power corresponding to the set processing method. The plurality of processing methods includes a first processing method and a second processing method. The switching unit 23 sets the first connection state when the first processing method is set and sets the second connection state when the second processing method is set.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to processing systems. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, processing systems have been known that generate an arc between the tip of a torch electrode and a workpiece to perform thermal processing such as welding or cutting of the workpiece. There are various types of thermal processing. For example, arc welding, which welds a workpiece using arc heat, includes consumable electrode-based shielded metal arc welding, MAG welding (Metal Active Gas Welding), and MIG welding (Metal Inert Gas Welding), as well as non-consumable electrode-based tungsten inert gas (TIG) welding. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses an example of a consumable electrode-based welding system. Patent Document 2 discloses an example of a non-consumable electrode-based welding system. Other thermal processing methods include gouging, which creates a groove to remove a poorly welded or defective portion. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Special Publication No. 2015-528394 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2023-86950 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In recent years, power supply devices compatible with multiple processing methods, such as MAG welding and gouging, have become available, making it possible to use a common power supply device for these processes. However, since a processing tip (e.g., a processing torch) must be used that is compatible with each processing method, the processing tip must be changed to one that is appropriate for the processing method.

[0005] The present disclosure has been devised in view of the above circumstances, and an object of the present disclosure is to provide a processing system that can reduce the effort required to change a processing tip tool. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The processing system provided by the present disclosure comprises a power supply device that selectively switches between a plurality of different processing methods and outputs processing power according to the selected processing method, and a switching device that receives the processing power from the power supply device, wherein the switching device comprises an input terminal for the processing power, a first output terminal and a second output terminal, and a switching unit that switches between a first connection state in which the first output terminal is electrically connected to the input terminal and a second connection state in which the second output terminal is electrically connected to the input terminal, and the power supply device comprises a setting unit that selectively sets the plurality of processing methods and a power supply unit that outputs the processing power according to the set processing method, wherein the plurality of processing methods include a first processing method and a second processing method, and the switching unit switches to the first connection state when the first processing method is set by the setting unit, and switches to the second connection state when the second processing method is set.

[0007] In a preferred embodiment of the processing system, the power supply device further includes a switching instruction unit that outputs a switching signal instructing switching between the first connection state and the second connection state in accordance with the set processing method, and the switching unit receives the switching signal from the switching instruction unit and switches between the first connection state and the second connection state in accordance with the input switching signal.

[0008] In a preferred embodiment of the machining system, the machining system further comprises a detection unit that detects the machining current output from the power supply unit, and switching between the first connection state and the second connection state is prohibited while it is determined that machining operation is in progress based on the detection result of the detection unit.

[0009] In a preferred embodiment of the processing system, the switching unit includes a first contact that switches between a conductive state and a cut-off state between the first output terminal and the input terminal, and a second contact that switches between a conductive state and a cut-off state between the second output terminal and the input terminal, the first contact and the second contact being configured with electromagnetic contactors, and when one of the first contact and the second contact is in a conductive state, the other of the first contact and the second contact is in a cut-off state.

[0010] In a preferred embodiment of the machining system, the first machining method is a consumable electrode arc welding method, and the second machining method is a gouging method. [Effects of the Invention]

[0011] In the machining system of the present disclosure, multiple machining methods, including a first machining method and a second machining method, can be selectively set, and the switching device outputs the machining power input from the power supply device from either the first output terminal or the second output terminal depending on the selected machining method. With this configuration, a user of the machining system of the present disclosure can automatically switch the output destination of the machining power to either the first output terminal or the second output terminal simply by selecting (setting) the machining method. This eliminates the need for the user of the machining system to switch between the machining tip tool connected to the first output terminal (the machining tip tool corresponding to the first machining method) and the machining tip tool connected to the second output terminal (the machining tip tool corresponding to the second machining method). In other words, the machining system of the present disclosure can reduce the effort required to change the machining tip tool. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0012] [Figure 1] 1 is a functional block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a machining system according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] 1 is an example of the external configuration of a processing system (power supply device and switching device) according to a first embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 10 is a functional block diagram showing a configuration example of a machining system according to a second embodiment. [Figure 4]FIG. 10 is a functional block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a machining system according to a third embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a functional block diagram showing a configuration example of a power supply device of a machining system according to a fourth embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0013] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Preferred embodiments of the processing system of the present disclosure will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the following, identical or similar components will be designated by the same reference numerals, and redundant description will be omitted.

[0014] Fig. 1 shows a machining system S1 according to a first embodiment. As shown in Fig. 1, the machining system S1 includes a power supply device A1 and a switching device B1. Furthermore, as shown in Fig. 1, the machining system S1 includes two electrode units C1 and C2 and a plurality of power cables 40, 41, 42, and 49.

[0015] The machining system S1 is capable of selectively switching between a plurality of machining methods and performing work according to the selected machining method. An example will be described in which the machining system S1 is capable of selecting one of two machining methods. For ease of understanding, the two machining methods may be referred to as a "first machining method" and a "second machining method." Each of the two machining methods (the first machining method and the second machining method) generates an arc and supplies machining power to the arc to machine the workpiece W. Specifically, in this embodiment, the first machining method is a consumable electrode semi-automatic arc welding method (e.g., gas-shielded arc welding such as MAG welding, MIG welding, and carbon dioxide arc welding), and the second machining method is an arc air gouging method. The two machining methods (first machining method and second machining method) are not limited to these examples, and machining methods that require power supply to the machining location, such as consumable electrode arc machining (welding and cutting), non-consumable electrode arc machining (welding and cutting), stud welding, gouging, and plasma machining (welding and cutting), can be used. For example, in an example different from this embodiment, at least one of the two machining methods may be TIG welding, which is a non-consumable electrode arc welding method, or consumable electrode (manual) covered metal arc welding (middle stick welding).

[0016] The power cable 40 is connected to the power supply device A1 (terminal 10a described later) and the switching device B1 (input terminal 20 described later). The power cable 41 is connected to the switching device B1 (first output terminal 21 described later) and the electrode unit C1. The power cable 42 is connected to the switching device B1 (second output terminal 22 described later) and the electrode unit C2. The power cable 49 is connected to the power supply device A1 (terminal 10b described later) and the workpiece W (base material).

[0017] In the machining system S1, during machining operation, the power supply device A1 supplies machining power to the switching device B1 via the power cable 40, regardless of whether the first machining method or the second machining method is selected. When the first machining method is selected, the switching device B1 supplies the machining power input from the power supply device A1 to the electrode unit C1 via the power cable 41, and when the second machining method is selected, the switching device B1 supplies the machining power input from the power supply device A1 to the electrode unit C2 via the power cable 42.

[0018] The electrode unit C1 is used when performing processing work using the first processing method. In an example in which the first processing method is a consumable electrode semi-automatic arc welding method, the electrode unit C1 includes a wire feeder 51, an electrode 52, a welding torch 53, and a torch cable 54. The wire feeder 51 feeds the welding wire to the welding torch 53, causing the electrode 52, which is the tip portion of the welding wire, to protrude from the tip of the welding torch 53. The torch cable 54 is connected to the wire feeder 51 and the welding torch 53 and transmits processing power (welding power) from the wire feeder 51 to the welding torch 53. The torch cable 54 is electrically connected to the power cable 41 inside the wire feeder 51. The electrode 52, which is the tip of the welding wire, and the torch cable 54 are electrically connected to a contact tip (not shown) located at the tip of the welding torch 53. In addition to these, the electrode unit C1 may include a gas cylinder filled with shielding gas, a gas pipe provided to pass through the wire feeder 51, a flow regulator for adjusting the flow rate of the shielding gas, etc. It may also include a cooling water circulator for cooling the welding torch 53. During machining operation using the first machining method, the electrode unit C1 generates an arc between the electrode 52 and the workpiece W and supplies machining power to the arc.

[0019] The electrode unit C2 is used when performing machining operations using the second machining method. In an example where the second machining method is arc air gouging, the electrode unit C2 includes a gouging torch 61 and an electrode 62. The gouging torch 61 includes a rod-shaped torch portion held by a user (operator) of the machining system S1 and a holding portion attached to the tip of the torch portion and holding a gouging rod. The gouging torch 61 is connected to a power cable 42 and electrically connected to a switching device B1 via the power cable 42. Machining power input from the switching device B1 to the power cable 42 is supplied via the gouging torch 61 to the electrode 62, which is the tip of the gouging rod. During machining operations using the second machining method, the electrode unit C2 generates an arc between the electrode 62 and the workpiece W and supplies machining power to the arc. Although not shown, the electrode unit C2 also includes an air compressor that sends compressed air to the metal melted by the arc.

[0020] The power supply device A1 selectively switches between two different machining methods and outputs machining power according to the selected machining method. As shown in FIG. 1, the power supply device A1 includes a power supply unit 11, a setting unit 12, a control unit 13, and a switching instruction unit 14. The setting unit 12, the control unit 13, and the switching instruction unit 14 are each realized by, for example, a microcomputer. Note that at least two of the setting unit 12, the control unit 13, and the switching instruction unit 14 may be realized by a common microcomputer. Also, as shown in FIG. 1, the power supply device A1 includes a pair of terminals 10a and 10b.

[0021] The power supply unit 11 converts power supplied from an external power supply into processing power and outputs it. In the example shown in Fig. 1, a commercial power supply P is connected as the external power supply, and in this example, the power supply unit 11 converts commercial power supplied from the commercial power supply P into processing power. The external power supply is not limited to the commercial power supply P, and may be, for example, a DC power supply such as a battery. The power supply unit 11 outputs the processing power to a pair of terminals 10a, 10b.

[0022] The power supply unit 11 includes, for example, a rectifier circuit that rectifies three-phase AC power input from a commercial power source P, an inverter circuit that converts the output of the rectifier circuit into AC power, a transformer that boosts or lowers the output of the inverter circuit, and a rectifier circuit that rectifies the output of the transformer. In this configuration, the power supply unit 11 outputs DC machining power. The power supply unit 11 can output machining power suitable for each of the first machining method and the second machining method by controlling the inverter circuit with the control unit 13. Note that the configuration of the power supply unit 11 is not limited thereto. For example, the power supply unit 11 may include a smoothing circuit that smoothes the output of each of the rectifier circuits. Furthermore, the power supply unit 11 may have an additional inverter circuit provided downstream of the rectifier circuit that rectifies the output of the transformer. In this case, the control unit 13 controls this additional inverter circuit, allowing the power supply unit 11 to output AC machining power.

[0023] The setting unit 12 performs various settings in the machining system S1 in accordance with operations performed by a user of the machining system S1 (hereinafter, sometimes referred to as an "operator"). The user of the machining system S1 performs various operations on the machining system S1, for example, using both or one of an operation unit (not shown) provided on the main body of the power supply device A1 (a housing 19 described below) and an operation unit (not shown) of a remote control provided to be able to communicate with the power supply device A1. Note that communication between the remote control and the power supply device A1 may be wired or wireless. When the user of the machining system S1 specifies machining conditions (such as machining current and machining voltage) by operating either of the aforementioned operation units, the setting unit 12 sets the specified machining conditions in the control unit 13. Note that when the machining method is a welding method, the machining conditions are welding conditions, and the machining current and machining voltage are welding current and welding voltage. In this embodiment, for example, machining conditions can be set for each machining method. The setting unit 12 outputs setting information of the machining conditions to the control unit 13.

[0024] Furthermore, the setting unit 12 selectively sets one of the two processing methods. When a user of the processing system S1 selects one of the two processing methods by operating one of the operation units described above, the setting unit 12 sets the selected processing method in the control unit 13 and the switching instruction unit 14. The setting unit 12 outputs setting information of the processing method to the control unit 13 and the switching instruction unit 14.

[0025] The control unit 13 controls the power supply device A1. The control unit 13 controls the machining power output from the power supply unit 11. For example, the control unit 13 controls the inverter circuit of the power supply unit 11 so that the machining voltage and machining current output from the power supply unit 11 become set voltage and set current. In addition, the control unit 13 starts the power supply unit 11 in response to the operation of any of the operation units described above, displays the detected values ​​of the machining voltage and machining current detected by sensors (not shown) on a display unit (not shown), and causes a notification unit (not shown) to notify the user of an abnormality. In the machining system S1, the control unit 13 controls the machining power by causing the power supply unit 11 to output machining power suitable for the machining method set by the setting unit 12. The control unit 13 may also control the electrode units C1 and C2 as necessary. For example, the control unit 13 may control the wire feeder 51 of the electrode unit C1 (e.g., the welding wire feed speed).

[0026] The switching instruction unit 14 outputs a switching signal to the switching device B1 in accordance with the set machining method. The switching signal is a signal for instructing the switching device B1 to switch between a first connection state in which machining power is supplied to the electrode unit C1 and a second connection state in which machining power is supplied to the electrode unit C2. Details of the first connection state and the second connection state will be described later. When the first machining method is set by the setting unit 12, the switching instruction unit 14 outputs a switching signal to the switching device B1 to set the first connection state, and when the second machining method is set by the setting unit 12, the switching instruction unit 14 outputs a switching signal to the switching device B1 to set the second connection state.

[0027] The switching device B1 receives machining power from the power supply device A1. As shown in Fig. 1, the switching device B1 includes an input terminal 20, a first output terminal 21, a second output terminal 22, and a switching unit 23. The switching device B1 outputs the machining power input to the input terminal 20 from either the first output terminal 21 or the second output terminal 22. At this time, the switching device B1 switches between outputting the machining power from the first output terminal 21 or the second output terminal 22 in accordance with a switching signal input from the power supply device A1.

[0028] A power cable 40 is connected to the input terminal 20. The input terminal 20 receives processing power from the power supply device A1 via the power cable 40.

[0029] In the first connection state, the first output terminal 21 is electrically connected to the input terminal 20. That is, in the first connection state, the machining power input to the input terminal 20 is output from the first output terminal 21. A power cable 41 is detachably connected to the first output terminal 21. The first output terminal 21 is electrically connected to the electrode unit C1 via the power cable 41.

[0030] In the second connection state, the second output terminal 22 is electrically connected to the input terminal 20. That is, in the second connection state, the machining power input to the input terminal 20 is output from the second output terminal 22. A power cable 42 is detachably connected to the second output terminal 22. The second output terminal 22 is electrically connected to the electrode unit C2 via the power cable 42.

[0031] The switching unit 23 switches between connection states (a first connection state and a second connection state). The first connection state is a state in which the first output terminal 21 is electrically connected to the input terminal 20, and as described above, is a state in which machining power can be supplied to the electrode unit C1. The second connection state is a state in which the second output terminal 22 is electrically connected to the input terminal 20, and as described above, is a state in which machining power can be supplied to the electrode unit C2. A switching signal is input to the switching unit 23 from the power supply device A1. The switching unit 23 switches between the first connection state and the second connection state in response to the input switching signal. As shown in FIG. 1, the switching unit 23 has a first contact 231, a second contact 232, and a switching control unit 233.

[0032] Each of the first contact 231 and the second contact 232 is formed by, for example, an electromagnetic contactor. Alternatively, each of the first contact 231 and the second contact 232 may be formed by a semiconductor switch. The first contact 231 switches between a conductive state and a cut-off state between the first output terminal 21 and the input terminal 20. When the first contact 231 is in a conductive state, the first output terminal 21 is electrically connected to the input terminal 20. The second contact 232 switches between a conductive state and a cut-off state between the second output terminal 22 and the input terminal 20. When the second contact 232 is in a conductive state, the second output terminal 22 is electrically connected to the input terminal 20.

[0033] A switching signal is input to the switching control unit 233. In response to the switching signal, the switching control unit 233 switches the first contact 231 between a conductive state and a cut-off state, and switches the second contact 232 between a conductive state and a cut-off state. When the input switching signal is a signal instructing the first connection state, the switching control unit 233 sets the first contact 231 to a conductive state and the second contact 232 to a cut-off state. On the other hand, when the input switching signal is a signal instructing the second connection state, the switching control unit 233 sets the first contact 231 to a cut-off state and the second contact 232 to a conductive state. In this way, the switching control unit 233 switches between the first connection state and the second connection state by controlling the switching of the first contact 231 and the second contact 232. In addition, when switching between the first connection state and the second connection state, both the first contact 231 and the second contact 232 may be set to a disconnected state before the first contact 231 or the second contact 232 is set to a conductive state so that the first contact 231 and the second contact 232 are not simultaneously set to a conductive state.

[0034] When a user of the machining system S1 performs machining work using the first machining method, the user selects the first machining method from the two machining methods. As a result, the setting unit 12 sets the first machining method in the power supply device A1, and the switching instruction unit 14 outputs a switching signal instructing the first connection state to the switching device B1. In response to the input switching signal, the switching control unit 233 of the switching device B1 places the first contact 231 in a conductive state and the second contact 232 in a cut-off state. As a result, the switching device B1 enters the first connection state in which the input terminal 20 and the first output terminal 21 are electrically connected. In this state, when the user of the machining system S1 performs an operation to start machining work using the first machining method (for example, by operating a torch switch (not shown) provided on the welding torch 53), the control unit 13 controls the power supply unit 11 to satisfy machining conditions corresponding to the first machining method, and the power supply unit 11 outputs machining power that satisfies the machining conditions. As a result, an arc is generated between the electrode 52 of the electrode unit C1 and the workpiece W, and arc processing (for example, arc welding) is performed.

[0035] On the other hand, when a user of the machining system S1 performs machining work using the second machining method, the user selects the second machining method from the two machining methods. As a result, the setting unit 12 sets the second machining method in the power supply device A1, and the switching instruction unit 14 outputs a switching signal instructing the second connection state to the switching device B1. In response to the input switching signal, the switching control unit 233 of the switching device B1 brings the second contact 232 into a conductive state and the first contact 231 into a cut-off state. As a result, the switching device B1 enters the second connection state in which the input terminal 20 and the second output terminal 22 are electrically connected. In this state, when the user of the machining system S1 performs an operation to start machining work using the second machining method (for example, by operating the operation unit of the power supply device A1 or the operation unit of the remote control), the control unit 13 controls the power supply unit 11 to satisfy machining conditions corresponding to the second machining method, and the power supply unit 11 outputs machining power that satisfies the machining conditions. As a result, an arc is generated between the electrode 62 of the electrode unit C2 and the workpiece W, and arc air gouging is performed.

[0036] FIG. 2 illustrates an example of the external configuration of the machining system S1, showing a power supply device A1 and a switching device B1. FIG. 2(a) is a plan view, FIG. 2(b) is a front view, and FIG. 2(c) is a side view. As shown in these figures, the switching device B1 is attached to a housing 19 of the power supply device A1. Specifically, a mounting stay 91 is attached to the side of the housing 19 of the power supply device A1, and the switching device B1 is attached to the mounting stay 91. An input terminal 20, a first output terminal 21, and a second output terminal 22 are disposed inside the housing 29 of the switching device B1. In the illustrated example, an opening is provided in the housing 29 of the switching device B1, and the input terminal 20, the first output terminal 21, and the second output terminal 22 can be seen through the opening. The switching device B1 may also include a cover that covers the opening of the housing 29. It is preferable that this cover can be removed from the housing 29 when connecting the three power cables 40, 41, and 42 to the input terminal 20, the first output terminal 21, and the second output terminal 22, respectively. Note that the external configurations of the power supply device A1 and the switching device B1 are not limited to the example shown in FIG.

[0037] The machining system S1 configured as described above includes a power supply device A1 and a switching device B1. The power supply device A1 can selectively set two machining methods, and the switching device B1 outputs the machining power input from the power supply device A1 from either the first output terminal 21 or the second output terminal 22 depending on the selected machining method. With this configuration, a user of the machining system S1 can automatically switch the output destination of the machining power to one of the two electrode units C1, C2 simply by selecting (setting) the machining method. This eliminates the need for the user of the machining system S1 to change the electrode units C1, C2 (the aforementioned machining tip tools). In other words, the machining system S1 can reduce the effort required to change the machining tip tools (the two electrode units C1, C2).

[0038] In the machining system S1 configured as described above, the first machining method is a consumable electrode semi-automatic arc welding method, and the second machining method is an arc air gouging method. During semi-automatic arc welding, welding wire is fed automatically, but the welding torch 53 is moved manually by a user (operator). This can result in defects during welding. These defects can be repaired by, for example, "chipping" them off using an arc air gouging method. In this case, conventional welding systems require alternating attachment of a machining tip for arc welding (electrode unit C1) and a machining tip for gouging (electrode unit C2) to a common power supply. Therefore, if an operator's arc welding proficiency is low, frequent machining tip replacement can reduce work efficiency. In contrast, as described above, the machining system S1 can reduce the effort required for replacing the machining tip (two electrode units C1 and C2), thereby preventing a decrease in welding efficiency.

[0039] In the machining system S1 configured as described above, the power supply device A1 includes a switching instruction unit 14. The switching instruction unit 14 outputs a switching signal that instructs switching between the first connection state and the second connection state in accordance with the set machining method. Furthermore, the switching unit 23 of the switching device B1 receives the switching signal from the switching instruction unit 14 and switches between the first connection state and the second connection state in accordance with the input switching signal. With this configuration, when a user of the machining system S1 switches the machining method, the switching device B1 can switch between the first connection state and the second connection state in accordance with the switching signal from the power supply device A1.

[0040] In the processing system S1 configured as described above, the switching device B1 includes a switching unit 23 that switches the connection state, and the switching unit 23 includes a first contact 231 and a second contact 232. The first contact 231 switches between a conductive state and a cut-off state between the first output terminal 21 and the input terminal 20, and the second contact 232 switches between a conductive state and a cut-off state between the second output terminal 22 and the input terminal 20. The first contact 231 and the second contact 232 are each formed by an electromagnetic contactor. In this embodiment, the power supply device A1 and the switching device B1 are configured as separate bodies, and therefore the first contact 231 and the second contact 232 are disposed outside the power supply device A1. In contrast to this configuration, if the first contact 231 and the second contact 232 were built into the power supply device A1, the power supply device A1 would become larger and more expensive. Furthermore, even if the first contact 231 and the second contact 232 need to be replaced due to the lifespan of the electromagnetic contactors (the first contact 231 and the second contact 232), the replacement is time-consuming. On the other hand, in the processing system S1, the first contact 231 and the second contact 232 are built into the switching device B1 outside the power supply device A1, which makes it easy to replace the first contact 231 and the second contact 232 and improves maintainability.

[0041] In the machining system S1 configured as described above, the power supply device A1 has a pair of terminals 10a, 10b for outputting machining power. The power supply device A1 has a pair of terminals 10a, 10b for outputting machining power, which is also the case in conventional power supply devices (e.g., the power supply devices described in Patent Documents 1 and 2). Meanwhile, in the power supply device A1, functions such as the setting unit 12 and the switching instruction unit 14 are implemented by, for example, a microcomputer. This configuration allows the power supply device A1 to be easily adapted to the switching device B1 by updating its internal software, thereby enabling the power supply device A1 to be easily adapted to the switching device B1. In other words, a conventional power supply device can be converted into the power supply device A1 by simply modifying its software, and the machining system S1 can be constructed simply by adding the switching device B1. In other words, in a system that switches between two machining methods, there is no need to provide dedicated power supply devices each equipped with output terminals corresponding to the two machining methods.

[0042] In the above embodiment, an example was shown in which a switching signal is output from power supply device A1 to switching device B1 in accordance with the selected processing method, and switching device B1 switches between the first connection state and the second connection state in accordance with the input switching signal. Alternatively, processing method setting information may be output from power supply device A1 to switching device B1, and switching device B1 may switch between the first connection state and the second connection state in accordance with the input setting information. In this configuration, power supply device A1 only needs to output processing method setting information to switching device B1, and does not need to be equipped with switching instruction unit 14.

[0043] 3 shows a processing system S2 according to a second embodiment. The processing system S2 differs from the processing system S1 in that the power supply device A1 includes a detection unit 15.

[0044] The detection unit 15 detects the output current of the power supply device A1. In the illustrated example, the detection unit 15 is disposed inside the power supply device A1 on a power line connecting the terminal 10a and the power supply unit 11. Unlike this example, the detection unit 15 may be disposed inside the power supply device A1 on a power line connecting the terminal 10b and the power supply unit 11. The current detected by the detection unit 15 is the same as the machining current output from the power supply unit 11. In other words, the detection unit 15 detects the machining current output from the power supply unit 11. The detection unit 15 outputs the detection result (detected value of the machining current) to the switching instruction unit 14.

[0045] The switching instruction unit 14 determines whether machining is in progress or machining is stopped based on the detection result (detection value of machining current) of the detection unit 15. For example, the switching instruction unit 14 determines that machining is in progress when the machining current is not 0 A (i.e., when the power supply device A1 is outputting a machining current), and determines that machining is stopped when the machining current is 0 A (i.e., when the power supply device A1 is not outputting a machining current). Note that, even during machining, if the machining current may become 0 A instantaneously or may become 0 A while changing the machining location, it may be determined that machining is stopped if the state in which the machining current is 0 A continues for a certain period of time.

[0046] The switching instruction unit 14 suspends output of a switching signal even if the setting unit 12 changes the setting of the processing method while it determines that processing is in progress. Thereafter, when the switching instruction unit 14 changes its determination from that processing is in progress to that processing is stopped, it outputs a switching signal to the switching device B1 to instruct it to switch the connection state. In this configuration, while the switching instruction unit 14 determines that processing is in progress based on the detection result of the detection unit 15, switching between the first connection state and the second connection state is prohibited. On the other hand, when the setting unit 12 changes the setting of the processing method while it determines that processing is stopped, the switching instruction unit 14 outputs a switching signal to the switching device B1 to instruct it to switch the connection state.

[0047] In the machining system S2 configured as described above, two machining methods can be selectively set, similar to the machining system S1, and the switching device B1 outputs the machining power input from the power supply device A1 from either the first output terminal 21 or the second output terminal 22, depending on the selected machining method. Therefore, similar to the machining system S1, the machining system S2 does not require changing the electrode units C1, C2 (the above-mentioned machining tip tools), and therefore the effort required for changing the machining tip tools (two electrode units C1, C2) can be reduced. In addition, the machining system S2 has a common configuration with the machining system S1, and thereby achieves the same effects as the machining system S1.

[0048] In the machining system S2 configured as described above, even if an operation to change the machining method is performed during machining, switching of the connection state is prohibited. This allows the system to function as an interlock that restricts changes in the state of the first contact 231 and the second contact 232 during machining. This prevents hot switching due to accidental operation and extends the life of each of the first contact 231 and the second contact 232.

[0049] In the second embodiment, an example was described in which the detection result of the detection unit 15 was input to the switching instruction unit 14. However, instead of this configuration, the detection result of the detection unit 15 (detected value of the machining current) may be input to the setting unit 12. In this example, the setting unit 12 determines whether a machining operation is in progress or a machining stop is in progress based on the detection result of the detection unit 15 (detected value of the machining current). Then, while the setting unit 12 determines that a machining operation is in progress, the setting unit 12 suspends the setting of the machining method even if the user selects another machining method. Thereafter, when the setting unit 12 changes its determination from that a machining operation is in progress to that a machining stop is in progress, the setting unit 12 sets the selected machining method. In this configuration, while the setting unit 12 determines that a machining operation is in progress based on the detection result of the detection unit 15, switching between the first connection state and the second connection state is prohibited. On the other hand, when the setting unit 12 determines that a machining operation is in progress and the user selects another machining method, the setting unit 12 sets the selected machining method. In other words, the connection state is switched to a connection state corresponding to the selected machining method. Even with this configuration, switching of the connection state is prohibited even if an operation to change the processing method is performed. This allows the device to function as an interlock that restricts changes in the state of first contact 231 and second contact 232 during processing work, thereby extending the contact life of each of first contact 231 and second contact 232.

[0050] 4 shows a processing system S3 according to a third embodiment. The processing system S3 differs from the processing system S1 in that a switching device B1 includes a detection unit 25.

[0051] The detection unit 25 detects the current flowing through the input terminal 20. In the illustrated example, it is disposed inside the switching device B1 on the power line connecting the input terminal 20 and the switching unit 23. The current detected by the detection unit 25 is the same as the machining current output from the power supply unit 11. In other words, the detection unit 25 detects the machining current output from the power supply unit 11. The detection unit 25 outputs the detection result (detected value of the machining current) to the switching control unit 233 of the switching unit 23.

[0052] The switching control unit 233 determines whether machining is in progress or machining is stopped based on the detection result (detection value of machining current) of the detection unit 25. For example, when a current is flowing through the input terminal 20, the switching control unit 233 determines that machining is in progress, and when no current is flowing through the input terminal 20, the switching control unit 233 determines that machining is stopped.

[0053] While the switching control unit 233 determines that machining is in progress, it suspends switching the connection state even if a switching signal input from the power supply device A1 switches the connection state. Thereafter, when the determination changes from that machining is in progress to that machining is stopped, the switching control unit 233 switches the connection state based on the input switching signal. In this configuration, while the switching control unit 233 determines that machining is in progress based on the detection result of the detection unit 25, switching between the first connection state and the second connection state is prohibited. On the other hand, while the switching control unit 233 determines that machining is stopped, if a switching signal is input from the power supply device A1, the switching control unit 233 switches the connection state in response to the switching signal.

[0054] In the machining system S3 configured as described above, two machining methods can be selectively set, similar to the machining system S1, and the switching device B1 outputs the machining power input from the power supply device A1 from either the first output terminal 21 or the second output terminal 22, depending on the selected machining method. Therefore, similar to the machining system S1, the machining system S3 does not require changing the electrode units C1, C2 (the above-mentioned machining tip tools), and therefore the effort required for changing the machining tip tools (two electrode units C1, C2) can be reduced. In addition, the machining system S3 has a common configuration with the machining system S1, and thereby achieves the same effects as the machining system S1.

[0055] In the machining system S3 configured as described above, even if an operation to change the machining method is performed during machining, switching of the connection state is prohibited. As a result, similar to the machining system S2, during machining, the system can function as an interlock that limits changes in the state of the first contact 231 and the second contact 232, thereby extending the contact life of each of the first contact 231 and the second contact 232.

[0056] Fig. 5 shows a machining system S4 according to a fourth embodiment. Fig. 5 shows the power supply device A1 in the machining system S3, and the switching device B1 and electrode units C1 and C2 are similar. The machining system S4 differs from the machining system S1 in that the power supply unit 11 includes two output circuits 111 and 112.

[0057] The two output circuits 111, 112 each convert power supplied from an external power source (commercial power source P) into processing power and output the power. The output circuit 111 converts the power into processing power suitable for a first processing method, and the output circuit 112 converts the power into processing power suitable for a second processing method. The output circuits 111, 112 each output the processing power from a common pair of terminals 10a, 10b. The output circuit 111 includes an inverter circuit 111a, and the output circuit 112 includes an inverter circuit 112a.

[0058] In the machining system S4, the control unit 13 outputs machining power from one of the two output circuits 111, 112 depending on the selected (set) machining method. Specifically, when the first machining method is selected, the control unit 13 outputs a drive signal to the inverter circuit 111a but does not output a drive signal to the inverter circuit 112a. As a result, the power supply unit 11 outputs machining power from the output circuit 111 but does not output machining power from the output circuit 112. On the other hand, when the second machining method is selected, the control unit 13 does not output a drive signal to the inverter circuit 111a but outputs a drive signal to the inverter circuit 112a. As a result, the power supply unit 11 does not output machining power from the output circuit 111 but outputs machining power from the output circuit 112.

[0059] In the machining system S4 configured as described above, two machining methods can be selectively set, similar to the machining system S1, and the switching device B1 outputs the machining power input from the power supply device A1 from either the first output terminal 21 or the second output terminal 22, depending on the selected machining method. Therefore, similar to the machining system S1, the machining system S4 does not require changing the electrode units C1, C2 (the above-mentioned machining tip tools), and therefore the effort required for changing the machining tip tools (two electrode units C1, C2) can be reduced. In addition, the machining system S4 has a common configuration with the machining system S1, and thereby achieves the same effects as the machining system S1.

[0060] In the machining system S4 configured as described above, the output circuits 111, 112 of the power supply unit 11 are switched between the first machining method and the second machining method. With this configuration, powers with different characteristics can be used with the different output circuits 111, 112. For example, different output circuits 111, 112 can be used when the machining power is DC or AC, when the machining voltage is high or low, or when the workpiece W is positive or negative.

[0061] In the above-described processing system S4, the two output circuits 111, 112 are each supplied with power from a common external power source (commercial power source P), but in a different configuration, the two output circuits 111, 112 may each be supplied with power from different external power sources.

[0062] The machining systems S1 to S4 according to the first to fourth embodiments (including their modifications) may be configured as follows. When the switching device B1 detects an internal abnormality, the power supply device A1 may notify the abnormality of the switching device B1 using a notifying unit (such as a display or speaker) (not shown) or may stop the output of machining power from the power supply unit 11. For example, the switching device B1 may be provided with an abnormality detection unit that detects an abnormality within the switching device B1. For example, the abnormality detection unit may detect an abnormality in the first contact 231 and the second contact 232 using the auxiliary contacts of the first contact 231 and the second contact 232, or may detect an abnormality in the internal power supply (not shown). When the abnormality detection unit of the switching device B1 detects an abnormality within the switching device B1, it outputs an abnormality signal to the power supply device A1, notifying the abnormality. This allows the power supply device A1 to confirm the abnormality of the switching device B1.

[0063] In the above first to fourth embodiments (including their modifications), examples have been shown in which one of two processing methods is selected, but one of three or more processing methods may be selected. In this case, the switching device B1 is provided with output terminals and contacts according to the number of processing methods that can be supported. For example, in an example including three processing methods, the switching device B1 is provided with three output terminals and three contacts. Then, by switching the three contacts between a conductive state and a cut-off state according to the selected processing method, an output is output from one of the three output terminals.

[0064] The processing system according to the present disclosure is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and the specific configuration of each part of the processing system according to the present disclosure can be freely designed in various ways. [Explanation of symbols]

[0065] S1 to S4: machining system, A1: power supply device, B1: switching device, C1, C2: electrode unit, 11: power supply unit, 12: setting unit, 14: switching instruction unit, 15: detection unit, 20: input terminal, 21: first output terminal, 22: second output terminal, 23: switching unit, 231: first contact, 232: second contact, 25: detection unit

Claims

1. a power supply device that selectively switches between a plurality of different machining methods and outputs machining power according to the selected machining method; a switching device to which the processing power is input from the power supply device; Equipped with The switching device an input terminal for the processing power; a first output terminal and a second output terminal; a switching unit that switches between a first connection state in which the first output terminal is electrically connected to the input terminal and a second connection state in which the second output terminal is electrically connected to the input terminal; Equipped with The power supply device a setting unit that selectively sets the plurality of processing methods; a power supply unit that outputs the processing power according to the set processing method; Equipped with the plurality of processing methods include a first processing method and a second processing method, The switching unit switches to the first connection state when the first processing method is set by the setting unit, and switches to the second connection state when the second processing method is set by the setting unit.

2. the power supply device further includes a switching instruction unit that outputs a switching signal that instructs switching between the first connection state and the second connection state in accordance with the set processing method, The machining system according to claim 1 , wherein the switching unit receives the switching signal from the switching instruction unit and switches between the first connection state and the second connection state in response to the input switching signal.

3. a detection unit that detects a machining current output from the power supply unit, 3. The machining system according to claim 1, wherein switching between the first connection state and the second connection state is prohibited while it is determined that a machining operation is in progress based on the detection result of the detection unit.

4. the switching unit includes a first contact that switches between a conductive state and a cut-off state between the first output terminal and the input terminal, and a second contact that switches between a conductive state and a cut-off state between the second output terminal and the input terminal, the first contact and the second contact are configured by electromagnetic contactors, 3. The machining system according to claim 1, wherein when one of the first contact point and the second contact point is in a conductive state, the other of the first contact point and the second contact point is in a non-conductive state.

5. the first processing method is a consumable electrode arc welding method, The machining system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the second machining method is a gouging method.

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