Control device, control method, and computer program

Abstract

A control device, a control method, and a computer program are provided that can achieve both energy conservation and improved convenience. [Solution] The control device 3 of the present disclosure includes a control unit 33 that controls the operation of a machine tool 1 that has a light source (illumination lamp 13) and an operation unit 15c, and the control unit 33 starts timing the elapsed time when the light source is on, and if the timing is being executed and a predetermined condition is met, suspends the timing, and if the predetermined condition is not met after the timing is suspended, resumes the timing, and if the timing is being executed and the predetermined condition is not met, erases the timing result (timing result t) when the operation unit 15c is operated, and when the operation unit 15c is not operated, determines whether a predetermined time T has elapsed based on the timing result, and if it is determined that the time has elapsed, dims the light source from the on state.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a control device, a control method, and a computer program. [Background technology]

[0002] A machine tool that processes a workpiece in a processing area may be equipped with a lighting lamp (light source) and an operating unit. For example, when an operator monitors the processing status of a workpiece, the operator turns on the lighting lamp that illuminates the processing area to visually confirm the processing area, and operates the operating unit as necessary. Operators sometimes forget to manually turn off the lights, and it is a waste of energy to keep the processing area illuminated when the operator cannot see the processing area. The control device described in Patent Document 1 controls the machine tool so that the illumination light is turned off when a predetermined time has elapsed since the worker operated the operating unit. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2000-094266 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In the control device described in Patent Document 1, if the predetermined time is too long, the lighting continues to illuminate the machining area for a long time even after the worker has finished the work that requires visual confirmation of the machining area, resulting in wasted energy. On the other hand, if the predetermined time is too short, the lighting is automatically turned off while the worker is visually checking the machining area without operating the operation unit, resulting in reduced convenience. This problem can occur not only when an on-state light is automatically turned off to save energy, but also when an on-state light is automatically dimmed.

[0005] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a control device, a control method, and a computer program that can achieve both energy conservation and improved convenience. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The control device according to the present disclosure includes a control unit that controls the operation of a machine tool that includes a light source and an operating unit, and the control unit starts timing the elapsed time when the light source is on, suspends the timing when the timing is being performed and a predetermined condition is met, resumes the timing when the predetermined condition is not met after the timing is suspended, erases the timing result when the operating unit is operated when the timing is being performed and the predetermined condition is not met, and determines whether a predetermined time has elapsed based on the timing result when the operating unit is not operated, and if it is determined that a predetermined time has elapsed, dims the light source from the on state.

[0007] In the present disclosure, a machine tool includes a light source and an operating unit. A control device that controls the operation of the machine tool includes a control unit. Light from the light source directly or indirectly illuminates an object that is visually recognized by an operator (hereinafter referred to as a work object). The control unit starts timing the elapsed time when the light source is on. When the elapsed time is being measured, it is, for example, between the start and end of the timer's operation. When the elapsed time is being measured, it is, for example, paused, the timer. When the elapsed time is being measured again, it is, for example, released from pause, the timer. When the elapsed time is being measured, it is necessary to determine whether a predetermined condition is met. When the elapsed time is not being measured, it is not necessary to determine whether a predetermined condition is met.

[0008] When the control unit is timing the elapsed time and the predetermined condition described below is not satisfied, the control unit determines whether the predetermined time has elapsed based on the result of timing the elapsed time while the operation unit is not being operated. If the control unit determines that the predetermined time has elapsed, the control unit dims the light source from the on state. That is, the light source automatically dims from the on state as the predetermined time elapses, so there is no waste of energy. When the control unit dims the light source from the on state, for example, the control unit turns off the light source that is on or reduces the brightness of the light source that is on.

[0009] When the elapsed time is being measured and the predetermined condition is not met, the control unit erases the measurement result of the elapsed time when the operation unit is operated. There is a high possibility that the worker who operates the operation unit will be visually checking the work object. Therefore, by erasing the measurement result, the control unit extends the grace period until the light source automatically changes from the on state to dimming. Therefore, there is no risk that the light source will automatically change from the on state to dimming against the worker's will while the worker is operating the operation unit and visually checking the work object. Erasing the result of the time measurement means, for example, deleting the value of the result of the time measurement recorded in the RAM by the control unit or overwriting it with an initial value (for example, "0"), or resetting the timer.

[0010] The predetermined condition indicates that there is a high possibility that the operator will be able to see the work target, regardless of whether or not the operation unit is operated. For example, the predetermined condition indicates that the operator is performing maintenance work or is checking the operation of the machine tool according to the machining program. Therefore, if the predetermined condition is not met, there is a high possibility that the operator will not be able to see the work target, so convenience is not reduced even if the light source automatically changes from an on state to a dim state after a predetermined time has passed. On the other hand, if the predetermined condition is met, it is desirable that the light source remain on.

[0011] If the elapsed time is being measured and a predetermined condition is met, the control unit suspends the measurement, so there is no risk of the light source automatically dimming from an on state against the operator's will. If the predetermined condition is not met after the measurement of the elapsed time is stopped, the control unit restarts the measurement of the elapsed time, and therefore the light source automatically goes from an on state to a dim state as the predetermined time passes. As a result, energy savings and improved convenience can be achieved at the same time. The control unit may erase the results of the interrupted timing before restarting the timing, or may restart the timing while maintaining the results of the interrupted timing. The former contributes to improved convenience, while the latter contributes to energy conservation.

[0012] In the control device according to the present disclosure, the machine tool further includes a start operation unit for starting operation in an automatic operation mode in which the control unit controls the operation of the machine tool in accordance with a machining program and machines a workpiece, and the control unit is performing the timing and, if the specified condition is not met, changes the light source from an on state to a dim state when the start operation unit is operated.

[0013] In the present disclosure, the machine tool is equipped with a start operation unit. An operator operates the start operation unit when instructing a control device to start operation in automatic operation mode. After operation in automatic operation mode starts, a control unit controls the operation of the machine tool according to a machining program, and the machine tool machines a workpiece. After the start of operation in automatic operation mode, there is a high possibility that the worker will not be able to see the work target. Therefore, if the control unit is timing the elapsed time and a predetermined condition is not met, the control unit will dim the light source from the on state when the start operation unit is operated. Because the light source automatically dims from the on state when the worker operates the start operation unit, further energy conservation can be promoted by not having to wait for the predetermined time to elapse.

[0014] In the control device of the present disclosure, when the control unit is executing the timing and a specified setting is invalid when the start operation unit is operated, the control unit determines that the specified condition is not met and dims the light source from an on state.

[0015] In the present disclosure, when the elapsed time is being counted and a predetermined setting (described later) is invalid when the start operation unit is operated, the control unit determines that the predetermined condition is not met. This is the case when the elapsed time is being counted and the predetermined condition is not met. Therefore, when the start operation unit is operated, the control unit dims the light source from the on state. In other words, the predetermined condition is that the predetermined setting is valid under the circumstances in which the worker operates the start operation unit.

[0016] The predetermined setting is a setting in which there is a high possibility that the worker will be able to see the work target even after driving in the automatic driving mode has started. For example, the operator activates a predetermined setting using the operation unit, and then operates the start operation unit, after which the operator monitors the machining status of the workpiece and inputs parameters or instructions into the control device. During such work, the operator may visually check the work object. As described above, under the condition that the predetermined setting is invalid, the light source automatically changes from an on state to a dim state when the start operation unit is operated.

[0017] In the control device disclosed herein, the machine tool further includes a start operation unit for starting operation in an automatic operation mode in which the control unit controls the operation of the machine tool in accordance with a machining program and machines a workpiece, and when the control unit is executing the timing and a predetermined setting is valid when the start operation unit is operated, the control unit determines that the predetermined condition is met and suspends the timing, and when the predetermined setting becomes invalid after the timing is suspended, the control unit determines that the predetermined condition is not met and resumes the timing.

[0018] In the present disclosure, when the elapsed time is being counted and a predetermined setting is enabled when the start operation unit is operated, the control unit determines that a predetermined condition is met. This is the case when the elapsed time is being counted and the predetermined condition is met. Therefore, the control unit suspends the counting of the elapsed time. Under the condition that the predetermined setting is valid, the worker may be able to see the work target even after operating the start operating unit. Therefore, there is no risk that the light source will automatically change from an on state to a dim state against the worker's will when operating the start operating unit.

[0019] If the predetermined setting becomes invalid after the measurement of the elapsed time is suspended, the control unit determines that the predetermined condition is not met. This is the case when the predetermined condition is not met after the measurement of the elapsed time is suspended. Therefore, the control unit resumes measuring the elapsed time.

[0020] In the control device disclosed herein, the machine tool comprises a spindle to which a tool for machining the workpiece can be attached and detached, a support part that supports the workpiece, and a drive part that drives the spindle or the support part so that the spindle and the support part move relative to each other, the light source is a lamp for illuminating a machining area where the workpiece is machined, and the predetermined setting is a setting in which the control part pauses execution of the machining program each time it finishes executing a portion of the machining program, a setting in which the control part accepts adjustment of the drive speed of the drive part set in the machining program, or a setting in which the control part controls the operation of the drive part in accordance with the machining program without machining the workpiece.

[0021] In the present disclosure, the machine tool further comprises a spindle, a support unit, and a drive unit, and is provided with a lighting lamp as a light source. A tool for machining a workpiece can be attached and detached to the spindle. The support unit supports the workpiece. The drive unit drives the spindle or the support unit. Driving the drive unit causes the spindle and the support unit to move relative to each other. Light from the lighting lamp directly or indirectly illuminates a machining area where the workpiece is machined. In the machining area, the machine tool machines the workpiece supported by the support unit with a tool attached to the spindle.

[0022] The predetermined setting is a setting for so-called single operation, dry run operation, or override operation. When the single operation setting is enabled, after the start operation unit is operated, the control unit pauses the execution of the machining program each time it finishes executing a portion of the machining program (such as one line or one block).When the dry run operation or override operation setting is enabled, after the start operation unit is operated, the control unit accepts adjustment of the drive speed of the drive unit set in the machining program.When the dry run operation setting is enabled, after the start operation unit is operated, the control unit controls the operation of the drive unit in accordance with the machining program without machining the workpiece.

[0023] In the above cases, there is a high possibility that the operator will monitor the machining status of the workpiece or the movement status of the spindle or support part, so the light source will remain on.

[0024] In the control device disclosed herein, the machine tool is equipped with a cover having an opening and a door for opening and closing the opening, the light source is a lamp for illuminating the area covered by the cover, and the specified condition is that the door is open.

[0025] In the present disclosure, the machine tool further includes a cover and a light source. The light from the light source directly or indirectly illuminates an area covered by the cover. The cover has an opening and a door. The door opens and closes the opening. The predetermined condition is that the cover door is open, and when the door is open, the light source remains on because there is a high probability that an operator can see the area covered by the cover through the opening of the door.

[0026] In the control device disclosed herein, the control unit controls the operation of the machine tool in accordance with a machining program and accepts a selection of either an automatic operation mode for machining a workpiece, or a non-automatic operation mode different from the automatic operation mode, and the specified condition is that a selection of the non-automatic operation mode has been accepted.

[0027] In the present disclosure, the control unit accepts selection of either an automatic operation mode or a non-automatic operation mode. After starting operation in the automatic operation mode, the control unit controls the operation of the machine tool according to a machining program, and the machine tool machines a workpiece. The non-automatic operation mode is different from the automatic operation mode. The predetermined condition is that the control unit has accepted the selection of the non-automatic operation mode. When the control unit has accepted the selection of the non-automatic operation mode, the light source remains on because there is a high possibility that the worker will be able to see the work target.

[0028] In the control device according to the present disclosure, the non-automatic operation mode is a maintenance mode for maintenance of the machine tool or a setup mode for setup of machining of the workpiece.

[0029] In the present disclosure, the non-automatic operation mode is a maintenance mode or a setup mode. When the control unit receives the selection of the maintenance mode, the operator performs maintenance and inspection of the machine tool. When the control unit receives the selection of the setup mode, the operator performs work such as replacing the workpiece to be machined or inputting parameters or commands to the control device. In either case, the light source remains on because there is a high possibility that the operator will be able to see the work object.

[0030] The control device according to the present disclosure includes a control unit that controls the operation of a machine tool, the machine tool including a light source, an operation unit, and a start operation unit for starting operation in an automatic operation mode in which the control unit controls the operation of the machine tool in accordance with a machining program and machines a workpiece, and the control unit starts measuring elapsed time when the light source is on, and if the measuring is in progress, erases the measuring result when the operation unit is operated, dims the light source from an on state when the start operation unit is operated, and determines whether a predetermined time has elapsed based on the measuring result when the operation unit and the start operation unit are not operated, and if it is determined that a predetermined time has elapsed, dims the light source from an on state.

[0031] In the present disclosure, a machine tool includes a light source, an operation unit, and a start operation unit. A control device that controls the operation of the machine tool includes a control unit. Generally, light from the light source directly or indirectly illuminates a work object. The operator operates the start operation unit when instructing the control device to start operation in the automatic operation mode. After operation in the automatic operation mode starts, the control unit controls the operation of the machine tool according to the machining program, and the machine tool machines the workpiece. The control unit starts timing the elapsed time when the light source is on.

[0032] When the elapsed time is being measured, the control unit determines whether a predetermined time has elapsed based on the results of the measurement of the elapsed time when neither the operation unit nor the start operation unit is operated. If it determines that the predetermined time has elapsed, the control unit dims the light source from an on state. In other words, since the light source automatically dims from an on state as the predetermined time elapses, no energy is wasted.

[0033] When the elapsed time is being measured, the control unit erases the measurement result of the elapsed time when the operation unit is operated. There is a high possibility that the worker who operates the operation unit will be looking at the work object. Therefore, by erasing the measurement result, the control unit extends the grace period until the light source automatically changes from an on state to a dim state. Therefore, there is no risk that the light source will automatically change from an on state to a dim state against the worker's will while the worker is operating the operation unit and looking at the work object.

[0034] After the start of operation in automatic operation mode, there is a high possibility that the worker will not be able to see the work target. Therefore, if the control unit is timing the elapsed time, it will dim the light source from the on state when the start operation unit is operated. Because the light source automatically dims from the on state when the worker operates the start operation unit, further energy conservation can be promoted by not having to wait for the passage of a predetermined time. As a result, energy savings and improved convenience can be achieved at the same time.

[0035] In the control device according to the present disclosure, the machine tool is capable of switching between a display state and a non-display state, and further includes a lighting operation unit for turning on the light source, and the control unit displays the lighting operation unit when the lighting operation unit is in the non-display state after the light source has been dimmed from the on state, and turns on the light source when the lighting operation unit is operated when the light source has been dimmed from the on state and the lighting operation unit is in the display state.

[0036] In the present disclosure, the machine tool further includes a lighting operation unit that can be switched between a display state and a non-display state. When the light source has dimmed from its on state and the lighting control unit is in the display state, a worker who wants the light source to illuminate the work object operates the lighting control unit. When the lighting control unit is operated, the control unit turns on the light source. When the light source is on, the control unit starts counting the elapsed time.

[0037] After the light source automatically changes from an on state to a dim state after a predetermined time has passed (or after the worker operates the start operation unit), a worker who wishes to use the light source to illuminate the work object operates the lighting operation unit if it is in a display state. When the lighting control unit is in a non-display state after the light source is dimmed from an on state, the control unit displays the lighting control unit. This eliminates the need for the operator to switch the lighting control unit from a non-display state to a display state before operating the lighting control unit, improving convenience.

[0038] The control method disclosed herein is a method for controlling the operation of a machine tool equipped with a light source and an operating unit, in which, when the light source is on, timing of elapsed time is started, when the timing is being executed and a predetermined condition is met, the timing is interrupted, when the predetermined condition is not met after the timing is interrupted, the timing is resumed, when the timing is being executed and the predetermined condition is not met, the timing result is erased when the operating unit is operated, and when the timing result indicates that a predetermined time has elapsed, the light source is dimmed from the on state.

[0039] In the present disclosure, the light source automatically goes from an on state to a dim state after a predetermined time has passed, so no energy is wasted. If the worker operates the operation unit before the specified time has elapsed, the grace period until the light source automatically changes from the on state to dim is extended. Therefore, there is no risk of the light source automatically changing from the on state to dim against the worker's will while the worker is operating the operation unit and viewing the work target.

[0040] However, when a predetermined condition is met, such as when the worker is visually recognizing the work target, the measurement of the elapsed time stops. Therefore, there is no risk of the light source automatically dimming from an on state against the worker's will. After the measurement of the elapsed time has stopped due to the establishment of a predetermined condition, if the predetermined condition is no longer established, the measurement of the elapsed time will start again. Therefore, as the predetermined time passes, the light source will automatically go from an on state to a dim state, so there is no waste of energy. As a result, energy savings and improved convenience can be achieved at the same time.

[0041] The control method according to the present disclosure is a method for controlling the operation of a machine tool that is equipped with a light source, an operation unit, and a start operation unit, in which, when the light source is on, timing of elapsed time is started, and if the timing is in progress, the timing result is erased when the operation unit is operated, the light source is dimmed from its on state when the start operation unit is operated, and if the timing result indicates the passage of a predetermined time, the light source is dimmed from its on state, the operation of the machine tool is controlled in accordance with a machining program, and operation in an automatic operation mode for machining a workpiece is initiated when the start operation unit is operated.

[0042] In the present disclosure, the light source automatically goes from an on state to a dim state after a predetermined time has passed, so no energy is wasted. If the worker operates the operation unit before the specified time has elapsed, the grace period until the light source automatically changes from the on state to dim is extended. Therefore, there is no risk of the light source automatically changing from the on state to dim against the worker's will while the worker is operating the operation unit and viewing the work target.

[0043] If the worker operates the start operation unit before the predetermined time has elapsed, the light source will automatically go from an on state to a dim state, thereby further promoting energy conservation since there is no need to wait for the predetermined time to elapse. As a result, energy savings and improved convenience can be achieved at the same time.

[0044] The computer program according to the present disclosure is a computer program for controlling the operation of a machine tool having a light source and an operating unit, and when the light source is on, starts timing the elapsed time, and when the timing is being executed and a predetermined condition is met, suspends the timing, and when the predetermined condition is not met after the timing is suspended, resumes the timing, and when the timing is being executed and the predetermined condition is not met, erases the timing result when the operating unit is operated, determines whether a predetermined time has elapsed based on the timing result, and when it is determined that a predetermined time has elapsed, causes the computer to execute a process of dimming the light source from an on state.

[0045] The computer program according to the present disclosure is a computer program for controlling the operation of a machine tool having a light source, an operation unit, and a start operation unit, and causes a computer to execute the following process: when the light source is on, start timing the elapsed time; if the timing is in progress, erase the timing result when the operation unit is operated; when the start operation unit is operated, dim the light source from its on state; determine whether a predetermined time has elapsed based on the timing result; if it is determined that the time has elapsed, dim the light source from its on state; control the operation of the machine tool in accordance with a machining program; and start operation in an automatic operation mode for machining a workpiece when the start operation unit is operated.

[0046] In the present disclosure, the control method according to the present disclosure can be realized in software using the hardware elements of a computer. A computer-readable recording medium storing the above-mentioned computer program (program product) is also novel and useful. [Effects of the Invention]

[0047] The control device, control method, and computer program of the present disclosure can achieve both energy conservation and improved convenience. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0048] [Figure 1] 1 is a perspective view showing a machine tool equipped with a control device according to an embodiment; [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a control system of the machine tool. [Figure 3] 10 is a flowchart showing the procedure of a light-off process executed by the control device. [Figure 4] 10 is a flowchart showing the procedure of a light-off process executed by the control device. [Figure 5] 10 is a flowchart showing the procedure of a light-off process executed by the control device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0049] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described. In the following description, up / down, front / back, and left / right indicated by arrows in the drawings will be used. The up / down, left / right, front / back directions shown in the drawings are shown merely to facilitate the description, and the directions are not limited to these.

[0050] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a machine tool equipped with a control device according to an embodiment. In the drawing, reference numeral 1 denotes a machine tool, and the machine tool 1 comprises a base 10, a machine body 11, a cover 12, and an illumination lamp 13. The base 10 is placed on the floor. The machine body 11 is provided on top of the base 10. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the control system of the machine tool 1. The machine body 11 includes a table 111 (support portion), an X-axis motor 112, a Y-axis motor 113, a spindle 114, a Z-axis motor 115, a spindle motor 116, a tool changer 117, and a change motor 118.

[0051] An operator places a workpiece 21 (piece to be machined) on the table 111. The table 111 supports the workpiece 21. The table 111 is located at the front of the upper part of the base 10 (see FIG. 1) and is movable in the forward, backward, left and right directions. The table 111 moves left and right as the X-axis motor 112 rotates forward or backward. The table 111 moves forward or backward as the Y-axis motor 113 rotates forward or backward.

[0052] The axial direction of the spindle 114 extends vertically. The spindle 114 is located above the table 111. A tool 22 for machining the workpiece 21 can be attached and detached to the lower end of the spindle 114. The spindle 114 can move vertically. The spindle 114 moves vertically as the Z-axis motor 115 rotates forward or backward. The X-axis motor 112, the Y-axis motor 113, and the Z-axis motor 115 are drive units that drive the spindle 114 or the table 111 so that the tool 22 attached to the spindle 114 moves relative to the workpiece 21 supported by the table 111.

[0053] The spindle motor 116 is located above the spindle 114, and rotation of the spindle motor 116 causes the spindle 114 and the tool 22 attached to the spindle 114 to rotate around the axis of the spindle 114. The tool 22 comes into contact with the workpiece 21 while rotating, thereby performing machining such as cutting or drilling on the workpiece 21. The area near the table 111 is a machining area 14 where the workpiece 21 is machined (see FIG. 1). The illuminating lamp 13 is a light source for illuminating the processing area 14, and the light from the illuminating lamp 13 illuminates the processing area 14 directly or indirectly.

[0054] The tool changer 117 holds a plurality of tools 22 in a rotatable manner. When the spindle 114 is raised, the tool changer 117 removes the tool 22 attached to the spindle 114 from the spindle 114 and holds it. When the spindle 114 is lowered, the tool changer 117 attaches one of the tools 22 held by the tool changer 117 to the spindle 114. The change motor 118 rotates and moves the plurality of tools 22 held by the tool changer 117, thereby sending the required tool 22 to the tool change position.

[0055] As shown in Figure 1, the cover 12 is box-shaped. The cover 12 is provided on the top of the base 10 so as to cover the machine body 11. The cover 12 has a front wall 121, a rear wall 122, a left wall 123, a right wall 124, and a top wall (not shown). The front wall 121, the rear wall 122, the left wall 123, the right wall 124, and the top wall cover the machine body 11 from the front side, the rear side, the left side, the right side, and the top side. The cover 12 covering the machine body 11 also covers the machining area 14. A rectangular opening 125 is provided in the center of the front wall 121. The cover 12 further has a door 126. The door 126 has a handle 127 for opening and closing the opening 125. The door 126 shown in the figure is open.

[0056] The machine tool 1 further includes a control device 3. The control device 3 is provided on the outer surface of the rear wall 122 of the cover 12. As shown in Figure 2, the control device 3 includes a main memory unit 31, an auxiliary memory unit 32, a control unit 33, and a timer 34. The main memory unit 31 is volatile and is, for example, a RAM (Random Access Memory). The auxiliary storage unit 32 is nonvolatile and includes a ROM (Read Only Memory), a flash memory, a hard disk, an SSD (Solid State Drive), or the like.

[0057] The auxiliary memory unit 32 stores a program 35 (computer program) and various data required for executing the program 35. The program 35 stored in the main memory unit 31 may be installed from a recording medium 23 such as an optical disk, flash memory, or magnetic disk, or may be installed from a server via a network. The program 35 includes a control program for the machine tool 1 created by the manufacturer of the machine tool 1, and a machining program 36 for the workpiece 21 created by the user of the machine tool 1. The control program includes programs for realizing the control method according to the present disclosure. The machining program 36 lists multiple commands for the machine tool 1 in the order in which they should be executed.

[0058] The control unit 33 includes one or more processors such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or an MPU (Micro-Processing Unit). The control unit 33 uses the main memory unit 31 as a working area and executes various arithmetic processing, control processing, etc. in accordance with a program 35 stored in the auxiliary memory unit 32. The control unit 33 may include a logic circuit (for example, an FPGA). For example, the control unit 33 sequentially reads the commands included in the machining program 36 line by line or block by block. The control unit 33 executes the read commands, causing the machine tool 1 to perform the operation corresponding to the commands.

[0059] Note that multiple processes may be executed by one processor included in the control unit 33, or may be executed in a distributed manner by multiple processors included in the control unit 33. There may be separate processors that execute one process and processors that execute other processes.

[0060] When the timer 34 is turned on, it measures the elapsed time until it is turned off, and holds the measurement result t of the elapsed time. The control unit 33 controls the on / off, time measurement interruption, time measurement restart, and reset of the timer 34. If the control unit 33 turns on the timer 34 while the timer 34 is not timing, the timer 34 sets the timing result t to "0" and then starts timing the elapsed time. If the control unit 33 turns off the timer 34 while the timer 34 is timing, the timer 34 stops timing the elapsed time.

[0061] If the control unit 33 interrupts the timer 34 while the timer 34 is timing, the timer 34 sets the timing result t to "0" or stops timing the elapsed time while maintaining the timing result t at the time of interruption. If the control unit 33 restarts timing of the timer 34 after the timer 34 has interrupted timing, the timer 34 starts timing the elapsed time with "0" or the maintained timing result t as its initial value. If the control unit 33 resets the timer 34 while the timer 34 is timing, the timer 34 sets the time measurement result t to "0" and then continues measuring the elapsed time.

[0062] The control device 3 or the machine body 11 includes motor drivers (not shown) that individually drive the X-axis motor 112, the Y-axis motor 113, the Z-axis motor 115, the spindle motor 116, and the exchange motor 118. The motor drivers receive control signals and drive the motors included in the machine body 11 in accordance with the received control signals.

[0063] The control unit 33 controls the operation of the X-axis motor 112 by outputting a control signal to the motor driver of the X-axis motor 112. Similarly, the control unit 33 controls the operation of each of the Y-axis motor 113, Z-axis motor 115, main shaft motor 116, and exchange motor 118. When the control unit 33 outputs a control signal, the motors operate. When the control unit 33 does not output a control signal, a stopped motor does not operate, and an operating motor stops. As a result of the above, the machine body 11 adjusts the position of the workpiece 21 in the front-rear and left-right directions, processes the workpiece 21 using the tool 22, and then replaces the tool 22. In the following description, when there is no need to distinguish between the X-axis motor 112, the Y-axis motor 113, and the Z-axis motor 115, they will be referred to as the drive unit.

[0064] The machine tool 1 further includes an operation panel 15 . An operation panel 15 is provided on the front wall 121 of the cover 12. The operation panel 15 is located to the right of the opening 125 and includes a touch panel 151 (see FIG. 1). The control unit 33 controls the operation of the touch panel 151, causing the touch panel 151 to display characters, symbols, figures, and the like. The control unit 33 also controls the operation of the touch panel 151, causing the touch panel 151 to display a start operation unit 15a, a lighting operation unit 15b, and various operation units 15c. The operator looks at the touch panel 151 and operates the start operation unit 15a, the lighting operation unit 15b, or the operation unit 15c.

[0065] The control unit 33 accepts a selection of either the automatic driving mode or the non-automatic driving mode. When selecting the automatic operation mode, the worker operates operation unit 15c for selecting the automatic operation mode. After selecting the automatic operation mode, the worker operates start operation unit 15a when instructing control device 3 to start operation in the automatic operation mode. When start operation unit 15a is operated, control unit 33 controls the operation of machine tool 1 in accordance with machining program 36, and machine tool 1 machines workpiece 21.

[0066] The non-automatic operation mode is different from the automatic operation mode. When selecting the non-automatic operation mode, the operator operates the operation unit 15c for selecting the non-automatic operation mode. The non-automatic operation mode is a maintenance mode for maintenance of the machine tool 1, a setup mode for setup for machining the workpiece 21, etc.

[0067] At least the lighting operation unit 15b can be switched between a display state and a non-display state, that is, there are cases where the touch panel 151 displays the lighting operation unit 15b and cases where it does not display it. When lighting operation unit 15b is in the display state, an operator who does not wish to operate lighting operation unit 15b operates a predetermined operation unit 15c. When this operation unit 15c is operated, touch panel 151 hides lighting operation unit 15b. Hidden lighting operation unit 15b cannot be operated.

[0068] When lighting operation unit 15b is in a non-display state, an operator who wishes to operate lighting operation unit 15b operates a predetermined operation unit 15c. When this operation unit 15c is operated, touch panel 151 displays lighting operation unit 15b. The worker switches the illuminating light 13 on and off by operating the lighting operation unit 15b. If the illuminating light 13 is off, the control unit 33 turns the illuminating light 13 on when the lighting operation unit 15b is operated. If the illuminating light 13 is on, the control unit 33 turns the illuminating light 13 off when the lighting operation unit 15b is operated. In the following, when there is no need to distinguish between operations of start operation unit 15a, lighting operation unit 15b, and operation unit 15c, they will be referred to as operations of touch panel 151.

[0069] When the worker is performing work that requires visual confirmation of the machining area 14, he or she operates the lighting operation unit 15b to turn on the lighting lamp 13. Work that requires visual confirmation of the machining area 14 is, for example, work that monitors the machining status of the workpiece 21, or the movement status of the spindle 114 or the table 111, etc.

[0070] After completing a task that requires visual confirmation of the processing area 14, the worker operates the lighting operation unit 15b to turn off the lighting 13. However, the worker may forget to operate the lighting operation unit 15b. Continuing to illuminate the processing area 14 when the worker cannot visually confirm the processing area 14 is a waste of energy. Therefore, it is desirable to automatically turn off the illuminating light 13. However, if the illuminating light 13 is automatically turned off while the worker is viewing the processing area 14, this leads to a decrease in convenience.

[0071] Therefore, the control device 3 of this embodiment realizes an automatic light-off function that automatically turns off the illumination light 13 when the illumination operation unit 15b is not operated while the illumination light 13 is on. However, there are cases where the automatic light-off function is not necessary. The three types of automatic light-off functions (first to third automatic light-off functions) will be described below.

[0072] The worker provides information regarding whether the automatic light-off function is required and the type of automatic light-off function required to the control device 3. For example, the touch panel 151 displays an operation unit 15c for disabling the automatic light-off function or for selecting one of the first to third automatic light-off functions. In response to the worker's operation of the touch panel 151, the auxiliary storage unit 32 stores information indicating that all three types of automatic light-off functions are disabled or information indicating which of the three types of automatic light-off functions is enabled.

[0073] When any of the first to third automatic light-off functions is enabled, the worker sets the predetermined time T by operating the predetermined operation unit 15c. The auxiliary storage unit 32 stores a default predetermined time T in advance, and when the worker sets the predetermined time T, the auxiliary storage unit 32 stores the predetermined time T set by the worker. The predetermined time T is, for example, 5 minutes. The auxiliary storage unit 32 may store a separate predetermined time T for each of the first to third automatic light-off functions.

[0074] 3 to 5 are flowcharts showing the procedure of the light-off process executed by the control device 3. The control unit 33 starts the light-off process shown in FIGS. 3 to 5 when the illuminating lamp 13 is turned on. The control unit 33 determines whether the automatic light-off function is disabled (S11). If the automatic light-off function is disabled (YES in S11), the control unit 33 determines whether the worker has operated the lighting operation unit 15b (S12). If the worker has not operated the lighting operation unit 15b (NO in S12), the control unit 33 executes the process of S12 again.

[0075] If the worker operates the lighting operation unit 15b (YES in S12), the control unit 33 turns off the illumination light 13 (S13) and ends the light-off process. As described above, when the automatic light-off function is disabled, the light 13 is turned off only when the worker operates the lighting operation unit 15b, preventing the light 13 from being turned off automatically. However, if the worker forgets to turn off the light 13 manually, the light 13 will not be turned off automatically.

[0076] When the automatic light-off function is not invalid (NO in S11), since any one of the first to third automatic light-off functions is valid, the control unit 33 turns on the timer 34 (S14). Next, the control unit 33 determines whether the first automatic light-off function is valid (S15). When the first automatic light-off function is valid (YES in S15), the control unit 33 determines whether the operator has operated the operation unit 15c (S16).

[0077] When the operator has operated the operation unit 15c (YES in S16), the control unit 33 deletes the timing result t (S17). The control unit 33 in S17 resets the timer 34. After the processing of S17 is completed, or when the operator has not operated the operation unit 15c (NO in S16), the control unit 33 determines whether the elapsed time has reached the predetermined time T by determining whether the timing result t of the timer 34 is equal to or greater than the predetermined time T (S18).

[0078] When t < T (NO in S18), the control unit 33 returns the process to S16. When t ≥ T (YES in S18), the control unit 33 turns off the lighting lamp 13 (S19) and determines whether the lighting operation unit 15b is hidden (S20). When the lighting operation unit 15b is hidden (YES in S20), the control unit 33 controls the operation of the touch panel 151 to display the lighting operation unit 15b (S21), turns off the timer 34 (S22), and ends the light-off process. When the touch panel 151 is displaying the lighting operation unit 15b (NO in S20), the control unit 33 moves the process to S22 and turns off the timer 34.

[0079] As described above, when the first automatic light-off function is valid, the timer 34 starts operating when the lighting lamp 13 is on. When the control unit 33 determines that the predetermined time T has elapsed based on the timing result t of the timer 34, the lighting lamp 13 automatically turns off. Since the lighting lamp 13 automatically turns off as the predetermined time T elapses, there is no waste of energy.

[0080] However, after the timer 34 is activated, the control unit 33 resets the timer 34 when the operation unit 15c is operated. There is a high possibility that the worker who operates the operation unit 15c will be viewing the machining area 14. Therefore, the control unit 33 resets the timer 34 to extend the grace period until the lighting 13 is automatically turned off. Therefore, there is no risk that the lighting 13 will be automatically turned off against the worker's will while the worker is viewing the machining area 14 while operating the operation unit 15c.

[0081] When the first automatic light-off function is enabled, the control unit 33 may reset the timer 34 not only when the operation unit 15c is operated but also when the start operation unit 15a is operated. Alternatively, when the first automatic light-off function is enabled, the control unit 33 may not reset the timer 34 in response to the operation of the operation unit 15c.

[0082] However, a worker who does not operate the operation unit 15c does not necessarily have finished the work that requires visual confirmation of the machining area 14. If the predetermined time T is too short, the lamp 13 will automatically turn off while the worker is visually checking the machining area 14 without operating the operation unit 15c, which will reduce convenience. On the other hand, if the predetermined time T is too long, the lamp 13 will continue to illuminate the machining area 14 for a long time even after the worker has finished the work that requires visual confirmation of the machining area 14, which will result in wasted energy. However, forcing the worker to set a predetermined time T that is neither too long nor too short will also reduce convenience.

[0083] Therefore, when the second automatic light-off function or the third automatic light-off function is enabled, the control unit 33 suspends and resumes counting the elapsed time depending on whether a predetermined condition is met. The predetermined condition indicates that there is a high possibility that the operator will visually recognize the machining area 14, regardless of whether the operation unit 15c is operated. For example, the predetermined condition indicates that the operator is performing maintenance work or is performing work to check the operation of the machine tool 1 in accordance with the machining program 36. Therefore, if the predetermined condition is not met, there is a high possibility that the operator will not visually recognize the machining area 14, so convenience will not be reduced even if the lighting 13 is automatically turned off after the predetermined time T has elapsed. On the other hand, if the predetermined condition is met, it is desirable that the lighting 13 remain on.

[0084] The following are examples of first to third predetermined conditions. In this embodiment, when the first predetermined condition is met, a first condition flag is enabled, and when the first predetermined condition is no longer met, the first condition flag is disabled. Similarly, a second condition flag corresponds to a second predetermined condition, and a third condition flag corresponds to a third predetermined condition.

[0085] The first predetermined condition is that the door 126 is open. When the door 126 is open, there is a high possibility that an operator can see the processing area 14 through the opening 125 in the cover 12, so it is desirable that the lighting 13 remain on. The machine tool 1 further includes an open / close detection unit 16 (see FIG. 2). The open / close detection unit 16 detects whether the door 126 is open or closed, and provides the detection result to the control unit 33. The control unit 33 enables the first condition flag when the first condition flag is disabled and the detection result of the open / close detection unit 16 indicates that the door 126 is open. The control unit 33 disables the first condition flag when the first condition flag is enabled and the detection result of the open / close detection unit 16 indicates that the door 126 is closed.

[0086] The second predetermined condition is that a selection of either the maintenance mode or the setup mode, which are non-automatic operation modes, has been accepted. In the maintenance mode, the operator performs maintenance and inspection of the machine tool 1. In the setup mode, the operator performs tasks such as replacing the workpiece 21 to be machined or inputting parameters or commands to the control device 3. In other words, in the non-automatic operation mode, there is a high possibility that the operator will be able to see the machining area 14, so it is desirable that the illumination light 13 remain on. The control unit 33 enables the second condition flag when the operation unit 15c is operated to select the non-automatic driving mode. The control unit 33 disables the second condition flag when the operation unit 15c is operated to select the automatic driving mode.

[0087] The third predetermined condition is that a predetermined setting is valid under the circumstances in which the operator operates the start operation unit 15a. The predetermined setting is a setting that makes it highly likely that the operator will be able to see the machining area 14 even after the start of operation in the automatic operation mode. When the predetermined setting is enabled, the operator operates the start operation unit 15a, and then performs tasks such as monitoring the machining status of the workpiece 21 and inputting parameters, instructions, etc. into the control device 3. The machining time in the automatic operation mode when the predetermined setting is enabled may differ from the machining time in the automatic operation mode when the predetermined setting is disabled.

[0088] The predetermined settings in this embodiment are settings for so-called single operation, dry run operation, and override operation. When the single operation setting is enabled, after the start operation unit 15a is operated, the control unit 33 temporarily suspends the execution of the machining program 36 every time execution of a part of the machining program 36 (one line, one block, etc.) is completed.

[0089] When the setting of the dry run operation or the override operation is enabled, after the start operation unit 15a is operated, the control unit 33 accepts adjustment of the drive speed of the drive unit set in the machining program 36. The operator adjusts the drive speed of the drive unit by operating a predetermined operation unit 15c. If the setting for dry run operation is enabled, after the start operation unit 15a is operated, the control unit 33 controls the operation of the drive unit in accordance with the machining program 36 without machining the workpiece 21. In such a case, it is highly likely that the operator will monitor the machining status of the workpiece 21 or the movement status of the spindle 114 or table 111.

[0090] An operator who selects the automatic operation mode operates the operation unit 15c to, for example, switch between enabling and disabling predetermined settings. If any of the settings for single operation, dry run operation, and override operation is enabled, the auxiliary storage unit 32 stores information indicating that the predetermined setting is enabled. If all of the settings for single operation, dry run operation, and override operation are disabled, the auxiliary storage unit 32 stores information indicating that the predetermined setting is disabled.

[0091] If the predetermined setting is valid, the control unit 33 enables the third condition flag when the start operation unit 15a is operated, because the predetermined setting is valid under the circumstances in which the worker operates the start operation unit 15a. When the third condition flag is valid (that is, when the operator operates the start operation unit 15a), the control unit 33 invalidates the third condition flag when the predetermined setting becomes invalid.

[0092] The operator can activate the second automatic light-off function if he / she does not plan to perform any of the single operation, dry run operation, and override operation. If he / she does not plan to perform any of the single operation, dry run operation, and override operation, it is unlikely that the operator will be able to see the machining area 14 after the automatic operation mode starts, so it is desirable to turn off the illumination light 13 when operating the start operation unit 15a.

[0093] On the other hand, if there is a possibility that single operation, dry run operation, or override operation will be performed, the operator can simply activate the third automatic light-off function. When performing single operation, dry run operation, or override operation, it is highly likely that the operator will be able to see the machining area 14 after the automatic operation mode starts, so it is desirable that the illumination light 13 remain on when the start operation unit 15a is operated.

[0094] As shown in Fig. 3, when the first automatic light-off function is not enabled (NO in S15), either the second automatic light-off function or the third automatic light-off function is enabled. The control unit 33 determines whether the second automatic light-off function is enabled (S31) as shown in Fig. 4. When the second automatic light-off function is enabled (YES in S31), the control unit 33 determines whether the first or second condition flag is enabled (S32).

[0095] If either the first or second condition flag is valid (YES in S32), the control unit 33 suspends the time counting by the timer 34 (S33). After completing the process of S33, the control unit 33 determines whether both the first and second condition flags are invalid (S34). If either the first or second condition flag is valid (NO in S34), the control unit 33 executes the process of S34 again. If both the first and second condition flags are invalid (YES in S34), the control unit 33 restarts the counting of time by the timer 34 (S35).

[0096] After the process of S35 is completed, or if both the first and second condition flags are invalid (NO in S32), the control unit 33 determines whether the operator has operated the operation unit 15c (S36). If the operator operates the operation unit 15c (YES in S36), the control unit 33 deletes the time measurement result t (S37). In S37, the control unit 33 resets the timer .

[0097] After the process of S37 or when the operator is not operating the operation unit 15c (NO in S36), the control unit 33 determines whether or not the elapsed time t of the timer 34 is equal to or greater than a predetermined time T, thereby determining whether or not the predetermined time T has elapsed (S38). When t≥T (YES in S38), the control unit 33 transfers the process to S19 shown in FIG. 3 and turns off the illumination lamp 13.

[0098] As shown in FIG. 4, when t<T (NO in S38), the control unit 33 determines whether or not the operator has operated the start operation unit 15a (S39). When the operator is not operating the start operation unit 15a (NO in S39), the control unit 33 returns the process to S32. When the operator has operated the start operation unit 15a (YES in S39), the control unit 33 transfers the process to S19 shown in FIG. 3 and turns off the illumination lamp 13.

[0099] As described above, when the second automatic light-off function is valid, similar to when the first automatic light-off function is valid, the illumination lamp 13 automatically turns off when the predetermined time T elapses. When the operator operates the operation unit 15c before the predetermined time T elapses, the grace period until the illumination lamp 13 automatically turns off is extended.

[0100] Moreover, when a predetermined condition under which the operator can visually recognize the work object is satisfied, the measurement of the elapsed time stops. Therefore, there is no risk that the illumination lamp 13 automatically turns off against the will of the operator. After the measurement of the elapsed time stops due to the satisfaction of the predetermined condition, when the predetermined condition is not satisfied, the measurement of the elapsed time starts again. Therefore, since the illumination lamp 13 automatically turns off as the predetermined time T elapses, there is no waste of energy. Even before the predetermined time T elapses, since the illumination lamp 13 automatically turns off in accordance with the operation of the start operation unit 15a by the operator, further energy saving can be achieved by the amount of not waiting for the elapse of the predetermined time T.

[0101] As a result, both energy saving and improvement of convenience can be achieved. Therefore, it is not necessary to force the operator to set a predetermined time T without excess or deficiency. It should be noted that when the second automatic light-off function is enabled, the control unit 33 does not need to turn off the illumination lamp 13 when the start operation unit 15a is operated.

[0102] If the second automatic light-off function is not enabled (NO in S31), the third automatic light-off function is enabled. The control unit 33 determines whether at least one of the first to third condition flags is enabled (S51), as shown in FIG. If at least one of the first to third condition flags is valid (YES in S51), the control unit 33 suspends the time counting by the timer 34 (S52). After the process of S52 ends, the control unit 33 determines whether all of the first to third condition flags are invalid (S53). If at least one of the first to third condition flags is valid (NO in S53), the control unit 33 executes the process of S53 again. If all of the first to third condition flags are invalid (YES in S53), the control unit 33 restarts the counting of time by the timer 34 (S54).

[0103] After the process of S54 is completed, or if all of the first to third condition flags are invalid (NO in S51), the control unit 33 determines whether the operator has operated the operation unit 15c (S55). If the operator operates the operation unit 15c (YES in S55), the control unit 33 deletes the time measurement result t (S56) and returns the process to S55. In S56, the control unit 33 resets the timer .

[0104] After the processing of S56 is completed, or if the operator has not operated the operation unit 15c (NO in S55), the control unit 33 determines whether the timing result t of the timer 34 is equal to or greater than the predetermined time T, thereby determining whether the predetermined time T has elapsed (S57). If t≧T (YES in S57), the control unit 33 proceeds to S19 shown in FIG.

[0105] When t < T (NO in S57) as shown in FIG. 5, the control unit 33 determines whether the operator has operated the start operation unit 15a (S58). When the operator has not operated the start operation unit 15a (NO in S58), the control unit 33 returns the process to S51. When the operator has operated the start operation unit 15a (YES in S58), the control unit 33 moves the process to S19 shown in FIG. 3 and turns off the illumination lamp 13.

[0106] When the third automatic light-off function is effective as described above, similar to when the first automatic light-off function is effective, the illumination lamp 13 automatically turns off when the predetermined time T elapses. If the operator operates the operation unit 15c before the predetermined time T elapses, the grace period until the illumination lamp 13 automatically turns off is extended. Also, similar to when the second automatic light-off function is effective, when a predetermined condition under which the operator can visually recognize the work object is satisfied, the counting of the elapsed time stops. After the counting of the elapsed time stops due to the satisfaction of the predetermined condition, if the predetermined condition is not satisfied, the counting of the elapsed time starts again. Therefore, the illumination lamp 13 automatically turns off as the predetermined time T elapses.

[0107] Moreover, when the predetermined setting is invalid, even before the predetermined time T elapses, the illumination lamp 13 automatically turns off along with the operation of the start operation unit 15a by the operator, so that energy saving can be further promoted by the amount of not waiting for the elapse of the predetermined time T. On the other hand, when the predetermined setting is valid, the counting of the elapsed time stops when the start operation unit 15a is operated, and the illumination lamp 13 remains on. That is, there is no risk that the illumination lamp 13 automatically turns off against the intention of the operator when the start operation unit 15a is operated. After that, if the predetermined setting becomes invalid, the counting of the elapsed time starts again. As a result of the above, both energy saving and improvement of convenience can be achieved. Therefore, it is not necessary to force the operator to set a predetermined time T without excess or deficiency.

[0108] Regardless of which of the first to third automatic light-off functions is enabled, the touch panel 151 automatically displays the lighting operation unit 15b after the lighting 13 is automatically turned off. Therefore, if it is necessary to visually check the processing area 14 after the lighting 13 is automatically turned off, the worker can turn on the lighting 13 by operating the lighting operation unit 15b that is already displayed. In other words, the worker does not need to operate the operation unit 15c to display the lighting operation unit 15b, thereby improving convenience. After the lighting lamp 13 is automatically turned off, the lighting lamp 13 is not automatically turned on, so there is no risk of the lighting lamp 13 being turned on regardless of the intention of the worker, resulting in wasting energy.

[0109] If the worker operates the lighting operation unit 15b between the time when the control unit 33 judges NO in S11 and the time when the control unit 33 executes the processing of S19, the control unit 33 shifts the processing to S13 to turn off the lighting lamp 13, and then turns off the timer 34, and then ends the light-off processing.

[0110] As described above, when the control unit 33 interrupts the timer 34 while the timer 34 is timing, the timer 34 either sets the timing result t to "0" or stops timing the elapsed time while maintaining the timing result t. When the timing result t is set to "0" when timing is interrupted, the grace period until the lamp 13 is automatically turned off is extended, improving convenience. On the other hand, when the timing result t is maintained when timing is interrupted, energy conservation is promoted. The control unit 33 may set the time measurement result t to "0" when time measurement is resumed, rather than when time measurement is interrupted. Alternatively, the control unit 33 may maintain the time measurement result t when time measurement is interrupted, and set the time measurement result t to "0" if the operator operates the operation unit 15c before time measurement is resumed.

[0111] The measurement of elapsed time is not limited to using the timer 34. For example, the control unit 33 may measure the elapsed time by counting the number of clock signals it receives. The control unit 33 writes the measurement result to the main memory unit 31. Erasing the measurement result of the elapsed time means that the control unit 33 deletes or overwrites the measurement result stored in the main memory unit 31 with an initial value (e.g., "0"). Alternatively, the control unit 33 uses a clock provided in the control device 3 to calculate the elapsed time based on the current time and the time when the time measurement started. The main memory unit 31 stores the time when the time measurement started. Erasing the measurement result means overwriting the time when the time measurement started stored in the main memory unit 31 with the current time.

[0112] In this embodiment, the control unit 33 determines whether a predetermined time T has elapsed based on the time measurement result t of the timer 34, and turns off the illuminating light 13 when it determines that the predetermined time T has elapsed, but this is not limited to this. For example, the control unit 33 may not determine the elapsed time, and the timer 34 may turn off the illuminating light 13 when it has finished measuring the predetermined time T.

[0113] Machine tool 1 may be equipped with a manual pulse generator. Operation panel 15 may be equipped with a hardware key. If the operator operates the manual pulse generator or a hardware key provided on operation panel 15 while the erasure process shown in Figures 3 to 5 is being executed, control unit 33 executes various processes in the same manner as when operation unit 15c is operated (for example, determining YES in the processes of S16, S36, and S55). The predetermined conditions are not limited to those described above, and may be, for example, that a human presence sensor detects a worker. The predetermined settings are not limited to the single operation, dry run operation, and override operation settings. The non-automatic operation mode is not limited to the maintenance mode and setup mode.

[0114] The light source in this embodiment is an illumination lamp 13 for illuminating the machining area 14, but is not limited to this and may be, for example, an illumination lamp for illuminating a workbench arranged alongside the machine tool 1. The necessity or type of an automatic extinguishing function may be set for each light source. The brightness of the lighting 13 may be variable. In this embodiment, an example of the case where the control unit 33 dims the lighting 13 from an on state is given as an example where the control unit 33 turns off the lighting 13, but this is not limited to this. For example, the control unit 33 may minimize the brightness of the lighting 13 when it is on.

[0115] Although the illumination operation unit 15b of this embodiment switches between a display state and a non-display state, the invention is not limited to this, and may be configured to switch between a conspicuous display state and an inconspicuous display state. Although the lighting operation unit 15b in this embodiment is a software key, it may also be a hardware key. When the lighting operation unit 15b is a hardware key, for example, the lighting operation unit 15b may be configured to switch between a display state and a non-display state by switching an LED provided next to the lighting operation unit 15b between on and off. In this embodiment, the illuminating lamp 13 is switched on and off each time the worker operates the lighting operation unit 15b, but this is not limiting. For example, there may be a separate lighting operation unit for turning on the illuminating lamp 13 and a separate extinguishing operation unit for turning off the illuminating lamp 13.

[0116] The embodiments disclosed herein should be considered to be illustrative in all respects and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is intended to include not only the above-mentioned meaning but also the meaning equivalent to the claims and all modifications within the scope of the claims. Independent and dependent claims may be combined with each other in any and all combinations, regardless of the reference format. Furthermore, while the claims may be written in a format in which a claim references two or more other claims (multiple claim format), this is not a limitation. Multiple claims that reference at least one other multiple claim (multiple multiple claim format) may also be written. [Explanation of symbols]

[0117] 1 Machine tools 111 Table (support part) 112 X-axis motor (drive unit) 113 Y-axis motor (drive unit) 114 Main axis 115 Z-axis motor (drive unit) 116 Spindle motor 12 Cover 125 Aperture 126 Door 13 Lighting light (light source) 14 Processing area (area covered by the cover) 15a Start operation section 15b Lighting operation section 15c Control unit 21 Work 22 Tools 3. Control device 33 Control Unit 35 Programs (computer programs) 36 Machining Programs T predetermined time t Timing results (timing results)

Claims

1. A control unit for controlling the operation of a machine tool equipped with a light source and an operation unit Equipped with The control unit If the light source is on, start timing the elapsed time; If the timing is being performed and a predetermined condition is met, the timing is interrupted; If the predetermined condition is not met after the timing is stopped, the timing is restarted; If the timing is being performed and the predetermined condition is not met, The timekeeping result is erased when the operation unit is operated, determining whether a predetermined time has elapsed based on the result of the timing when the operation unit is not being operated; If it is determined that the time has elapsed, the light source is dimmed from the on state. Control device.

2. The machine tool comprises: A start operation unit for starting operation in an automatic operation mode in which the control unit controls the operation of the machine tool in accordance with a machining program and machines a workpiece. Further provided with The control unit If the timing is being performed and the predetermined condition is not met, When the start operation unit is operated, the light source is dimmed from an on state. The control device according to claim 1 .

3. The control unit If the timing is being performed and a predetermined setting is invalid when the start operation unit is operated, it is determined that the predetermined condition is not met, and the light source is dimmed from an on state. The control device according to claim 2 .

4. The machine tool comprises: A start operation unit for starting operation in an automatic operation mode in which the control unit controls the operation of the machine tool in accordance with a machining program and machines a workpiece. Further provided with The control unit If the timing is being performed and a predetermined setting is valid when the start operation unit is operated, it is determined that the predetermined condition is met and the timing is interrupted; If the predetermined setting becomes invalid after the timekeeping is interrupted, it is determined that the predetermined condition is not met and the timekeeping is resumed. The control device according to claim 1 .

5. The machine tool comprises: a spindle to which a tool for machining the workpiece can be attached and detached; a support portion that supports the workpiece; a drive unit that drives the main shaft or the support unit so that the main shaft and the support unit move relative to each other; Equipped with the light source is an illumination lamp for illuminating a processing area in which the workpiece is processed, The predetermined setting is: A setting in which the control unit pauses execution of the machining program every time it finishes executing a part of the machining program; A setting in which the control unit accepts adjustment of the drive speed of the drive unit set in the machining program; Or, The control unit controls the operation of the drive unit in accordance with the machining program without machining the workpiece. The control device according to claim 3 or 4.

6. the machine tool includes a cover having an opening and a door for opening and closing the opening; the light source is a lamp for illuminating an area covered by the cover, The predetermined condition is that the door is open. The control device according to claim 1 .

7. The control unit accepting a selection of either an automatic operation mode in which the operation of the machine tool is controlled in accordance with a machining program to machine a workpiece, or a non-automatic operation mode different from the automatic operation mode; The predetermined condition is that the selection of the non-automated driving mode has been accepted. The control device according to claim 1 .

8. The non-automatic operation mode is a maintenance mode for maintenance of the machine tool or a setup mode for setup of machining of the workpiece. The control device according to claim 7.

9. A control unit that controls the operation of machine tools Equipped with The machine tool comprises: A light source and An operation unit; a start operation unit for starting operation in an automatic operation mode in which the control unit controls the operation of the machine tool in accordance with a machining program and machines a workpiece; Equipped with The control unit If the light source is on, start timing the elapsed time; If the timing is running, The timekeeping result is erased when the operation unit is operated, When the start operation unit is operated, the light source is dimmed from an on state; determining whether a predetermined time has elapsed based on the result of the timing while the operation unit is not operated and the start operation unit is not operated; If it is determined that the time has elapsed, the light source is dimmed from the on state. Control device.

10. The machine tool comprises: a lighting control unit that can switch between a display state and a non-display state and that turns on the light source; Further provided with The control unit If the lighting operation unit is in the non-display state after the light source is dimmed from the on state, displaying the lighting operation unit; When the light source is darkened from the on state and the lighting operation unit is in the display state, the light source is turned on when the lighting operation unit is operated. The control device according to claim 2 or 9.

11. A method for controlling an operation of a machine tool including a light source and an operation unit, comprising: If the light source is on, start timing the elapsed time; If the timing is being performed and a predetermined condition is met, the timing is interrupted; If the predetermined condition is not met after the timing is stopped, the timing is restarted; If the timing is being performed and the predetermined condition is not met, the result of the timing is erased when the operation unit is operated; When the result of the timing indicates that a predetermined time has elapsed, the light source is dimmed from an on state. Control method.

12. 1. A method for controlling an operation of a machine tool having a light source, an operating unit, and a start operating unit, comprising: If the light source is on, start timing the elapsed time; If the timing is running, The timekeeping result is erased when the operation unit is operated, When the start operation unit is operated, the light source is dimmed from an on state; When the result of the timing indicates that a predetermined time has elapsed, the light source is dimmed from an on state; The operation of the machine tool is controlled in accordance with a machining program, and an operation in an automatic operation mode for machining a workpiece is started when the start operation unit is operated. Control method.

13. A computer program for controlling an operation of a machine tool having a light source and an operation unit, If the light source is on, start timing the elapsed time; If the timing is being performed and a predetermined condition is met, the timing is interrupted; If the predetermined condition is not met after the timing is stopped, the timing is restarted; If the timing is being performed and the predetermined condition is not met, The timekeeping result is erased when the operation unit is operated, determining whether a predetermined time has elapsed based on the result of the timing; If it is determined that the time has elapsed, the light source is dimmed from the on state. A computer program that causes a computer to perform a process.

14. A computer program for controlling an operation of a machine tool including a light source, an operation unit, and a start operation unit, If the light source is on, start timing the elapsed time; If the timing is running, The timekeeping result is erased when the operation unit is operated, When the start operation unit is operated, the light source is dimmed from an on state; determining whether a predetermined time has elapsed based on the result of the timing; If it is determined that the time has elapsed, the light source is dimmed from the on state; The operation of the machine tool is controlled in accordance with a machining program, and an operation in an automatic operation mode for machining a workpiece is started when the start operation unit is operated. A computer program that causes a computer to perform a process.

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