Information processing system, display method, and display program

Abstract

This technology assists in understanding the condition history of machine tools. [Solution] The control unit of the information processing system executes a process to acquire state history information indicating the period during which the machine tool was in each state. The state of the machine tool includes a plurality of main states and a plurality of sub-states, each belonging to one of the plurality of main states. Each main state is associated with time information indicating the first period of that main state. Each sub-state is associated with time information indicating the second period of that sub-state. The control unit executes a process to display a history screen. The display process includes: for each main state defined in the state history information, a process to display a first object indicating the first period on the history screen in association with the time axis; a process to accumulate the second periods included in the first period for each first object and for each type of sub-state; and a process to display a second object representing the length of each accumulated period on the history screen in association with the corresponding first object.

Description

Technical Field

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[0001] The present disclosure relates to an information processing system, a display method, and a display program.

Background Art

[0002] Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 07-251356 (Patent Document 1) discloses a display analysis system capable of displaying the operating states of each of a plurality of facilities in a Gantt chart format. Examples of the operating states to be displayed include a rolling process, a cutting process, and a cutting process. The operating state of each facility is represented in a different display mode for each operating state in the Gantt chart.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In order to check the processing status of a machine tool, a manager may check the status history of the machine tool on a screen. When the status of the machine tool frequently changes, the manager cannot intuitively grasp the status history of the machine tool.

[0005] In view of the above points, a technology for assisting in grasping the status history of a machine tool is desired.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] In one example of this disclosure, an information processing system is provided. The information processing system includes a control unit. The control unit performs a process to acquire state history information indicating the period during which the machine tool was in each state. The states of the machine tool include a plurality of primary states and a plurality of secondary states, each belonging to one of the plurality of primary states. Each of the primary states defined in the state history information is associated with a first time information indicating a first period during which the machine tool was in that primary state. Each of the secondary states defined in the state history information is associated with a second time information indicating a second period during which the machine tool was in that secondary state. The control unit performs a process to display a history screen related to the state history information. The above display process includes: for each of the main states defined in the state history information, a process to display a first object indicating the first period on the history screen in association with the time axis; a process to accumulate the second periods included in the first period for each of the first objects and each of the sub-state types; and a process to display a second object representing the length of each accumulated period obtained in the accumulation process on the history screen in association with the corresponding first object.

[0007] In one example of this disclosure, the primary state is a state whose occurrence period does not overlap with other types of primary states. The secondary state is a state whose occurrence period may overlap with other types of secondary states.

[0008] In one example of this disclosure, the second object is displayed within the corresponding first object.

[0009] In one example of this disclosure, the second object represents the length of the cumulative period, with the width in a direction parallel to the time axis.

[0010] In one example of this disclosure, the second object represents the length of the accumulation period, with the width in a direction perpendicular to the time axis.

[0011] In one example of this disclosure, the main state includes an operating state indicating that the machine tool was in operation. If there are multiple first objects indicating the operating state during the period from the start of execution of the machining program to the end of execution of the machining program, the control unit integrates the multiple first objects and integrates the second objects contained in each of the multiple first objects.

[0012] Other examples of this disclosure provide a display method to be performed on an information processing system. The display method comprises the step of acquiring state history information indicating the period in which a machine tool was in each state. The states of the machine tool include a plurality of primary states and a plurality of sub-states, each belonging to one of the plurality of primary states. Each of the primary states defined in the state history information is associated with a first time information indicating a first period in which the machine tool was in that primary state. Each of the sub-states defined in the state history information is associated with a second time information indicating a second period in which the machine tool was in that sub-state. The display method further comprises the step of displaying a history screen relating to the state history information. The display step includes displaying a first object indicating the first period on the history screen in association with a time axis for each of the primary states defined in the state history information; accumulating the second periods included in the first period for each of the first objects and for each type of sub-state; and displaying a second object representing the length of each accumulated period obtained in the accumulating process on the history screen in association with the corresponding first object.

[0013] In other examples of this disclosure, a display program is provided that is executed on a computer. The display program causes the computer to perform a process to acquire state history information indicating the period in which a machine tool was in each state. The states of the machine tool include a plurality of primary states and a plurality of secondary states, each belonging to one of the plurality of primary states. Each of the primary states defined in the state history information is associated with a first time information indicating a first period in which the machine tool was in that primary state. Each of the secondary states defined in the state history information is associated with a second time information indicating a second period in which the machine tool was in that secondary state. The display program further causes the computer to perform a process to display a history screen relating to the state history information. The above display process includes: for each of the main states defined in the state history information, a process to display a first object indicating the first period on the history screen in association with the time axis; a process to accumulate the second periods included in the first period for each of the first objects and each of the sub-state types; and a process to display a second object representing the length of each accumulated period obtained in the accumulation process on the history screen in association with the corresponding first object.

[0014] The above and other objects, features, aspects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description relating to the invention, which will be understood in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0015] [Figure 1] This figure shows an example of the device configuration of an information processing system. [Figure 2] This is a diagram showing the external appearance of a machine tool. [Figure 3] This figure shows an example of machine tool status history information. [Figure 4] This figure shows the status history screen according to the comparative example and the status history screen according to the embodiment. [Figure 5] This figure shows an example of state relationship information that illustrates the correspondence between the primary state and the secondary state. [Figure 6]This is a diagram showing an example of a drive mechanism of a machine tool. [Figure 7] This is a diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of an information processing device. [Figure 8] This is a diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of a CNC unit. [Figure 9] This is a diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of an information processing system. [Figure 10] This is a diagram for explaining the functions of an integration unit and a display control unit. [Figure 11] This is a flowchart showing the flow of display processing of a status history screen. [Figure 12] This is a diagram showing a status history screen according to Modification 1. [Figure 13] This is a diagram showing a status history screen according to Modification 2.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

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

[0017] <A. Information Processing System 10> First, referring to FIG. 1, the device configuration of the information processing system 10 will be described. FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the device configuration of the information processing system 10.

[0018] The information processing system 10 includes an information processing device 100 and a machine tool 200.

[0019] The information processing apparatus 100 is, for example, a notebook or desktop PC (Personal Computer), a tablet terminal, or other computer equipped with a communication function. The information processing apparatus 100 is configured to be communicable with the machine tool 200 via a network NW1 (for example, a local area network (LAN) or the Internet).

[0020] The number of machine tools 200 constituting the information processing system 10 may be one or plural. In the example of FIG. 1, the information processing system 10 includes two machine tools 200A and 200B. The machine tool 200A and the machine tool 200B may be installed in the same factory or in different factories.

[0021] As used herein, the "machine tool" is a concept encompassing various devices having a function of processing a workpiece. The machine tool 200 may be a horizontal machining center or a vertical machining center. Alternatively, the machine tool 200 may be a lathe, or other cutting machine, grinding machine, machining center, 5-axis machining center, etc. Further, the machine tool 200 is not limited to performing only removal machining. The machine tool 200 may perform additional machining in addition to removal machining.

[0022] <B. Machine Tool 200> Next, referring to FIG. 2, the machine tool 200 according to the embodiment will be described. FIG. 2 is a view showing the appearance of the machine tool 200.

[0023] The machine tool 200 has a tool storage section 240A and a machine tool body 240B. Each of the tool storage section 240A and the machine tool body 240B is partitioned by a cover.

[0024] The tool storage section 240A is provided with a magazine 250 and an ATC (Automatic Tool Changer) 260. The machine tool body 240B is provided with a spindle head 270.

[0025] The spindle head 270 includes a spindle barrel 275 and a spindle 280. The spindle 280 is rotatably supported by the spindle barrel 275 with its axial direction as the rotation center. The rotation of the spindle 280 is realized by a drive mechanism such as a motor.

[0026] One tool selected from the magazine 250 is mounted on the spindle 280. More specifically, the machine tool 200 drives the magazine 250 and moves one tool (hereinafter also referred to as "processing tool") corresponding to the machining process to the first tool change position. Further, the machine tool 200 drives the spindle head 270 and moves the tool (hereinafter also referred to as "used tool") mounted on the spindle 280 to the second tool change position. Thereafter, the ATC 260 exchanges the processing tool waiting at the first tool change position with the used tool waiting at the second tool change position. The tool exchange is performed through a door D provided in a partition between the machining machine main body 240B and the tool storage portion 240A. The door D is a slide-type door and is opened and closed by a drive source such as a motor. Thereafter, the machine tool 200 machines the workpiece using the processing tool mounted on the spindle 280.

[0027] Further, an operation panel 400 is provided on the machine tool 200. The operation panel 400 includes a display 405 for displaying various information related to machining and operation keys 406 for receiving various operations on the machine tool 200.

[0028] <C. Overview> Next, referring to FIGS. 3 and 4, the main functions of the information processing system 10 will be described. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the state history information 124 of the machine tool 200.

[0029] The information processing system 10 acquires state history information 124 indicating the periods during which the machine tool 200 was in each state. The state of the machine tool 200 includes a plurality of main states and a plurality of sub-states.

[0030] The main state refers to a major category in the operation of the machine tool 200 and represents the main criterion for distinguishing the operating state of the entire machine. Each main state defined in the state history information 124 is associated with time information indicating the period during which the machine tool 200 was in that main state (hereinafter also referred to as the "main state period"). In the example in Figure 3, the main state "S1" is associated with time information defined by the start time "T1S" and the end time "T1E" as the main state period. The main state "S2" is associated with time information defined by the start time "T2S" and the end time "T2E" as the main state period.

[0031] A sub-state refers to a subcategory of state in the operation of the machine tool 200. In other words, a sub-state is a more detailed classification of a primary state, representing the detailed operating conditions and modes within that primary state. A sub-state is a state that belongs to any of the primary states. Each sub-state defined in the state history information 124 is associated with time information indicating the period during which the machine tool 200 was in that sub-state (hereinafter also referred to as the "sub-state period"). In the example in Figure 3, the sub-state "S2A" is associated with time information defined by the start time "T3S" and the end time "T3E" as the sub-state period.

[0032] The information processing system 10 has a function to display a history screen related to the status history information 124. Figure 4 shows a status history screen 130X according to a comparative example and a status history screen 130 according to an embodiment.

[0033] In the status history screen 130X, the primary state and secondary state of the machine tool 200 are displayed in correspondence with the time axis TAX. In the example in Figure 4, the occurrence periods of primary state "S1", primary state "S2", and secondary state "S2A" are displayed in correspondence with the time axis TAX. Secondary state "S2A" is a state belonging to primary state "S2".

[0034] As shown in the status history screen 130X, the display becomes cluttered when sub-states switch frequently. Therefore, the administrator cannot grasp the status of the machine tool 200 at a glance. To address this, the information processing system 10 displays sub-states, which are classified more finely than the main state, grouped together for each series of main states.

[0035] More specifically, for each of the main states defined in the state history information 124, the information processing system 10 displays a main state object OB1 (first object) representing the occurrence period on the state history screen 130, associating it with the time axis TAX.

[0036] In the example in Figure 4, a main state object OB1_1 is shown that indicates the duration of the main state "S1", and a main state object OB1_2 is shown that indicates the duration of the main state "S2".

[0037] On the other hand, the information processing system 10 displays the sub-states defined in the state history information 124 by grouping the lower-level sub-states together for each series of main states. More specifically, the information processing system 10 accumulates the sub-state periods included in each main state period of the main state object OB1 for each series of main state objects OB1 and for each type of sub-state. The information processing system 10 then displays the sub-state object OB2 (second object) representing the length of each accumulated period on the state history screen 130, associating it with the corresponding main state object OB1.

[0038] In the example in Figure 4, the duration of the sub-state "S2A" is accumulated, and the sub-state object OB2_1, which represents this accumulated duration, is displayed in association with the higher-level primary state object OB1_2.

[0039] This allows administrators to understand how much time each sub-state occupies within a series of occurrences of the primary state. As a result, users can easily understand the state history information 124 of the machine tool 200.

[0040] The method of associating the primary state object OB1_2 with the secondary state object OB2_1 is arbitrary. In the example in Figure 4, the information processing system 10 associates the primary state object OB1_2 with the secondary state object OB2_1 by displaying the secondary state object OB2_1 inside the primary state object OB1_2. This allows the administrator to easily recognize the correspondence between the primary state object OB1_2 and the secondary state object OB2_1.

[0041] As another example, the information processing system 10 associates the primary state object OB1_2 with the secondary state object OB2_1 by displaying the primary state object OB1_2 and the secondary state object OB2_1 side by side.

[0042] The display destination of the status history screen 130 is arbitrary. For example, the status history screen 130 is displayed on the display 106 of the information processing device 100 (see Figure 7), which will be described later. As another example, the status history screen 130 may be displayed on a display provided in the machine tool 200. An example of a display provided in the machine tool 200 is the display 405 (see Figure 2) described above.

[0043] Typically, the status history screen 130 is displayed for each machine tool 200. In this case, the identifier of the machine tool 200 (for example, the name of the machine tool) is also displayed on the status history screen 130.

[0044] Furthermore, the information processing system 10 may display only the status history screen 130, or it may display both the status history screen 130 and the status history screen 130X side by side. In addition, the display of the status history screens 130 and 130X may be switched according to user operation.

[0045] Further, the information processing system 10 may automatically switch the display of the state history screens 130 and 130X according to the screen magnification ratio. As an example, when the screen magnification ratio of the information processing system 10 is smaller than a predetermined value, the information processing system 10 displays the state history screen 130. On the other hand, when the screen magnification ratio of the information processing system 10 is greater than or equal to the predetermined value, the information processing system 10 displays the state history screen 130X.

[0046] <D. Specific Examples of the State of the Machine Tool 200> Next, referring to FIG. 5, specific examples of the above-described main state and the above-described sub-state will be described. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of state relation information 126 indicating the correspondence between the main state and the sub-state.

[0047] As described above, the main state refers to a major classification in the operation of the machine tool 200 and represents a main criterion for distinguishing the operating state of the entire machine. The main state is a state whose occurrence period does not overlap with other types of main states.

[0048] On the other hand, the sub-state is a state obtained by classifying the main state in more detail and represents detailed operating conditions and modes within the main state. The sub-state is a state whose occurrence period may overlap with other types of sub-states.

[0049] As an example of the main state, there is the "power-off state". The "power-off state" is a state indicating that the power of the machine tool 200 is off. The on / off of the power of the machine tool 200 can be detected by any method.

[0050] As an example, sensors such as a voltage sensor and a current sensor are connected to the power supply of the machine tool 200, and when the detection value of the sensor is less than or equal to a predetermined value, the information processing system 10 determines that the state of the machine tool 200 is in the "power-off state". On the other hand, when the detection value of the sensor is greater than the predetermined value, the information processing system 10 determines that the state of the machine tool 200 is a main state other than the "power-off state".

[0051] As another example, the information processing system 10 may detect whether the power of the machine tool 200 is turned on or off by monitoring the input port of the PLC provided in the machine tool 200.

[0052] Another example of a primary state is the "normal stop state." The "normal stop state" indicates that the machine tool 200 is powered on and has stopped normally. For example, the information processing system 10 determines that the state of the machine tool 200 is the "normal stop state" when the machine tool 200 is powered on, no abnormality has occurred in the machine tool 200, and the machining program 222 (see Figure 8) described later is not being executed.

[0053] Another example of a primary state is the "abnormal stop state." The "abnormal stop state" indicates that the machine tool 200 has stopped abnormally while its power supply is on. For example, the information processing system 10 determines that the state of the machine tool 200 is the "abnormal stop state" when the power supply to the machine tool 200 is on and some kind of abnormality has occurred in the machine tool 200.

[0054] The types of anomalies that can be detected are not particularly limited. Examples of detectable anomalies include a "damaged condition" indicating that the tool is damaged, and an "end-of-life condition" indicating that the tool has reached the end of its lifespan.

[0055] Whether a tool is in a "damaged state" is detected, for example, by a damage sensor installed in the machine tool 200. As an example, the damage sensor includes a tool shape measuring sensor. The measuring sensor may be, for example, a distance sensor, a touch sensor, or another sensor capable of detecting the tool's shape. An example of detecting tool damage using a distance sensor will be described. The machine tool 200 rotates the tool mounted on the spindle 280 in front of the distance sensor, thereby acquiring time-series data representing the tool's shape from the distance sensor. The machine tool 200 calculates the difference between the time-series data and a predetermined normal value, and determines that the tool is chipped if the absolute value of the difference exceeds a predetermined value. In this case, the machine tool 200 determines that the tool is in a "damaged state".

[0056] As another example, the damage sensor described above includes a camera for photographing the tools inside the machine tool 200. The machine tool 200 determines whether or not the tool is damaged by performing predetermined image processing on the image obtained from the camera. If the machine tool 200 determines that the tool is damaged, it determines the state of the tool as "damaged."

[0057] The "end of life" state is determined, for example, based on the machining program 222 (see Figure 8) described later. More specifically, the machine tool 200 monitors the machining program 222 and determines whether each tool is being used for machining. For tools that are in use, the machine tool 200 counts down the remaining life. The remaining life of a new tool is predetermined for each tool.

[0058] Here, "remaining life" refers to the amount of time a tool can be used before its lifespan ends. The term "amount" is a concept that includes time, distance, and number of uses. In other words, "the remaining usable amount of a tool" is a concept that includes the remaining usable time of the tool before its lifespan ends, the remaining distance the tool can travel before its lifespan ends, and the remaining number of uses the tool can have before its lifespan ends.

[0059] An example of a method for monitoring the remaining life of a tool is described below. The machining program 222 of the machine tool 200 is defined in G code and includes tool change commands to specify the tool to be mounted on the spindle 280, and drive commands to rotate / feed the spindle 280 and the tool. Based on the tool change commands defined in the machining program 222, the machine tool 200 identifies the type of tool to be used for machining the workpiece. Next, based on the execution of a drive command defined in the machining program 222, the machine tool 200 starts counting down the remaining life of the tool. Subsequently, based on the execution of a stop command or the last line command defined in the machining program 222, the machine tool 200 stops counting down the remaining life of the tool. In this way, the machine tool 200 monitors the remaining life of each tool. When the remaining life of a tool falls below a predetermined threshold, the machine tool 200 determines the tool's state to be "out of service" based on the remaining life of the tool becoming zero.

[0060] Another example of a primary state is the "operating state." The "operating state" indicates that the machine tool 200 was in the process of machining. More specifically, the information processing system 10 determines that the state of the machine tool 200 is the "operating state" when the machining program 222, described later, is being executed.

[0061] As shown in Figure 5, a primary state is associated with secondary states. For example, the primary state "normal shutdown state" is associated with the secondary state "operation state" and the secondary state "other states".

[0062] The sub-state "operation state" indicates a state in which an operator is operating the HMI (Human Machine Interface) of the machine tool 200 while the machine tool 200 is in a normally stopped state. An example of such HMI is the control panel 400 (see Figure 2) described above. The information processing system 10 considers, for example, user operations performed on the control panel 400 within a certain period of time (for example, within 30 seconds) as a series of "operation states". User operations include screen touch operations, switch press operations, and switch switching operations.

[0063] The secondary state "Other states" associated with the primary state "Normal shutdown state" is a state that belongs to the primary state "Normal shutdown state" and is a state other than the secondary state "Operation state".

[0064] The primary state, "Operating State," is associated with the secondary states "Rapid Traverse State," "Cutting Feed State," "Spindle Rotation State," "Machining State," and "Other States."

[0065] The sub-state "rapid traverse state" indicates that the spindle 280 of the machine tool 200 was being driven in rapid traverse mode. "Rapid traverse" means a control that drives the spindle 280 at the maximum speed within the range that can be set on the machine tool 200. The information processing system 10 determines the state of the machine tool 200 to be the sub-state "rapid traverse state" when a specific instruction code (for example, G-code "G00") defined in the machining program 222 (see Figure 8) described later is executed.

[0066] The sub-state "cutting feed state" indicates that the spindle 280 of the machine tool 200 was being feed-driven. "Cutting feed" means control that drives the spindle 280 at a specified feed rate. The feed rate of the spindle 280 during cutting feed is slower than the feed rate of the spindle 280 during rapid traverse. As an example, the information processing system 10 determines that the state of the machine tool 200 is the sub-state "cutting feed state" when a specific instruction code (for example, G-codes "G00" to "G03") defined in the machining program 222 (see Figure 8) described later is executed.

[0067] The sub-state "spindle rotation state" indicates that the spindle 280 of the machine tool 200 was rotating. This rotation refers to rotation around the axial direction of the spindle 280. For example, the information processing system 10 determines that the state of the machine tool 200 is the sub-state "spindle rotation state" when a specific instruction code (for example, G-codes "G00" to "G03") specified in the machining program 222 (see Figure 8) described later is executed.

[0068] The sub-state "machining state" indicates that the tool is cutting the workpiece. Whether or not the state of the machine tool 200 is "machining state" is determined by various methods. For example, the information processing system 10 determines that the state of the machine tool 200 is "machining state" if the state of the machine tool 200 is either the "cutting feed state" or the "rapid traverse state" and the "spindle rotation state" and the tool is in contact with the workpiece.

[0069] Whether or not the tool is in contact with the workpiece is determined, for example, using an acceleration sensor provided on the spindle 280. More specifically, the information processing system 10 samples the acceleration detected by the acceleration sensor at a predetermined sampling rate and performs a Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) on the sampling results. This yields a spectrum showing the vibration intensity for each frequency. The information processing system 10 determines that the tool is in contact with the workpiece if any of the vibration intensities included in the spectrum exceeds a predetermined value.

[0070] As another example, the information processing system 10 may determine whether the tool is in contact with the workpiece based on the load on the spindle 280. More specifically, the information processing system 10 detects the output currents of the motor drivers 231X, 231Y, 231Z, 231B, and 231C (see Figure 6) for the spindle 280 as the spindle load. These output currents are detected, for example, by a current sensor. The information processing system 10 determines that the tool is in contact with the workpiece if the current value of any of the output currents exceeds a predetermined value.

[0071] As yet another example, the information processing system 10 may use a camera installed inside the machine tool 200 to determine whether or not the tool is in contact with the workpiece. The camera is installed inside the machine tool 200 such that its shooting range includes the spindle 280 and the workpiece.

[0072] The sub - states "other states" associated with the main state "operating state" are states other than the sub - states "fast - feed state", "cutting - feed state", "spindle - rotation state", and "processing state".

[0073] The main state "abnormal stop state" is associated with the sub - state "operation state" and the sub - state "other states".

[0074] The sub - state "operation state" indicates the state in which an operator is operating the HMI of the machine tool 200 while the machine tool 200 is in an abnormal stop state. As an example of the HMI, the above - mentioned operation panel 400 (see Figure 2) can be cited. The information processing system 10 regards, for example, user operations performed on the operation panel 400 within a certain time (for example, within 30 seconds) as a series of "operation states". Examples of user operations include screen - touch operations, switch - pressing operations, and switch - switching operations, etc.

[0075] The sub - state "other states" associated with the main state "abnormal stop state" is a state belonging to the main state "abnormal stop state" and is a state other than the sub - state "operation state".

[0076] In the example of Figure 5, for the main state "power - off state", no sub - state is associated. Thus, the number of sub - states associated with the main state may be zero.

[0077] <E. Drive mechanism of machine tool 200> Next, referring to Figure 6, the drive mechanism in the machine tool 200 will be described. Figure 6 is a diagram showing an example of the drive mechanism of the machine tool 200.

[0078] As shown in Figure 6, the machine tool 200 includes a CNC unit 30, a drive unit 230A, and a drive unit 230B.

[0079] The CNC unit 30 controls various devices within the machine tool 200. The control targets by the CNC unit 30 include the drive unit 230A and the drive unit 230B.

[0080] The drive unit 230A is a drive mechanism for moving the position of the main spindle 280. The drive unit 230A may consist of a single drive unit or multiple drive units. In the example in Figure 6, the drive unit 230A consists of motor drivers 231X to 231Z and motors 232X to 232Z.

[0081] The motor driver 231X sequentially receives input from the CNC unit 30 for the target position of the spindle 280 in the X-axis direction and outputs a current corresponding to the target position to the motor 232X. This allows the motor 232X to drive the spindle 280 to any position in the X-axis direction. The motor 232X may be an AC motor, a stepper motor, a servo motor, or any other type of motor.

[0082] The motor driver 231Y sequentially receives input from the CNC unit 30 for the target position of the spindle 280 in the Y-axis direction and outputs a current corresponding to the target position to the motor 232Y. This allows the motor 232Y to drive the spindle 280 to any position in the Y-axis direction. The motor 232Y may be an AC motor, a stepper motor, a servo motor, or any other type of motor.

[0083] The motor driver 231Z sequentially receives input from the CNC unit 30 for the target position of the spindle 280 in the Z-axis direction and outputs a current corresponding to the target position to the motor 232Z. As a result, the motor 232Z moves the spindle 280 to any position in the Z-axis direction. The motor 232Z may be an AC motor, a stepper motor, a servo motor, or any other type of motor.

[0084] The drive unit 230B is a drive mechanism for rotationally driving the main shaft 280. The drive unit 230B may be composed of a single drive unit or a plurality of drive units. In the example of FIG. 6, the drive unit 230B is composed of motor drivers 231B, 231C and motors 232B, 232C.

[0085] The motor driver 231B sequentially receives from the CNC unit 30 an input of the target rotation angle or target rotation speed of the main shaft 280 centered on the Y-axis direction, and outputs a current corresponding to the target rotation angle or the target rotation speed to the motor 232B. The motor 232B rotationally drives the main shaft 280 centered on the Y-axis direction. The motor 232B may be an AC motor, a stepping motor, a servo motor, or any other type of motor.

[0086] The motor driver 231C sequentially receives from the CNC unit 30 an input of the target rotation angle or target rotation speed of the main shaft 280 centered on the axial direction of the main shaft 280, and outputs a current corresponding to the target rotation angle or the target rotation speed to the motor 232C. The motor 232C rotationally drives the main shaft 280 centered on the axial direction of the main shaft 280. The motor 232C may be an AC motor, a stepping motor, a servo motor, or any other type of motor.

[0087] <Hardware Configuration of the Information Processing Apparatus 100> Next, referring to FIG. 7, the hardware configuration of the information processing apparatus 100 shown in FIG. 1 described above will be described. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the information processing apparatus 100.

[0088] The information processing apparatus 100 includes a control circuit 101, a ROM 102, a RAM 103, a communication interface 104, a display interface 105, an input interface 107, and an auxiliary storage device 120. These components are connected to an internal bus 109.

[0089] The control circuit 101 is an example of the control unit 50 of the information processing system 10. The control circuit 101 is composed of, for example, at least one integrated circuit. The integrated circuit may consist of, for example, at least one CPU, at least one GPU, at least one ASIC, at least one FPGA, or a combination thereof.

[0090] The control circuit 101 controls the operation of the information processing device 100 by executing various programs, such as the display program 122. Based on the receipt of an execution command for the display program 122, the control circuit 101 reads the display program 122 from the ROM 102 or auxiliary storage device 120 into the RAM 103. The RAM 103 functions as working memory and temporarily stores various data necessary for the execution of the display program 122.

[0091] The communication interface 104 is connected to a LAN, an antenna, and the like. The information processing device 100 exchanges data with external devices via the communication interface 104. These external devices include, for example, a machine tool 200, a control panel 400, and other communication equipment.

[0092] A display 106 is connected to the display interface 105. The display interface 105 sends image signals to the display 106 for displaying images, according to commands from the control circuit 101 or the like. The display 106 is, for example, a liquid crystal display, an organic EL display, or other display device. The display 106 may be configured integrally with the information processing device 100, or it may be configured separately from the information processing device 100.

[0093] An input device 108 is connected to the input interface 107. The input device 108 is, for example, a mouse, a keyboard, a touch panel, or other device capable of receiving user operations. Note that the input device 108 may be integrally configured with the information processing apparatus 100 or may be configured separately from the information processing apparatus 100.

[0094] The auxiliary storage device 120 is, for example, a hard disk, a flash memory, an SSD (Solid State Drive), and other storage media. The auxiliary storage device 120 stores a display program 122, the above-described state history information 124, the above-described state relation information 126, and the like. These storage locations are not limited to the auxiliary storage device 120 and may be stored in a storage area (for example, a cache memory) of the control circuit 101, the ROM 102, the RAM 103, other devices, or the like.

[0095] The display program 122 is a program for realizing some or all of the functions described in this specification. The display program 122 may be provided not as a single program but incorporated into a part of an arbitrary program. In this case, the transfer control process by the display program 122 is realized in cooperation with an arbitrary program. Even a program that does not include such a part of the module does not deviate from the gist of the display program 122 according to the present embodiment. Further, some or all of the functions provided by the display program 122 may be realized by dedicated hardware. Further, the information processing apparatus 100 may be configured in a form such as a so-called cloud service in which at least one server executes a part of the processing of the display program 122.

[0096] <Hardware Configuration of G.CNC Unit 30> Next, referring to FIG. 8, the hardware configuration of the CNC unit 30 shown in FIG. 6 described above will be described. FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the CNC unit 30.

[0097] The CNC unit 30 includes a control circuit 201, a ROM 202, a RAM 203, a communication interface 204, and an auxiliary storage device 220. These components are connected to an internal bus 209.

[0098] The control circuit 201 is an example of the control unit 50 of the information processing system 10. The control circuit 201 is comprised of, for example, at least one integrated circuit. The integrated circuit may consist of, for example, at least one CPU, at least one GPU, at least one ASIC, at least one FPGA, or a combination thereof.

[0099] The control circuit 201 controls the operation of the CNC unit 30 by executing various programs, such as the workpiece machining program 222. Based on receiving an execution command for the machining program 222, the control circuit 201 reads the machining program 222 from the ROM 202 into the RAM 203. The RAM 203 functions as working memory and temporarily stores various data necessary for executing the machining program 222.

[0100] The communication interface 204 is an interface for periodic communication with external devices using a field network. Examples of such external devices include the aforementioned drive units 230A and 230B. Examples of field networks include EtherCAT, EtherNet / IP, CC-Link, or CompoNet.

[0101] The auxiliary storage device 220 is, for example, a hard disk, a flash memory, an SSD, and other storage media. The auxiliary storage device 220 stores a processing program 222 and the like. The storage location of the processing program 222 is not limited to the auxiliary storage device 220, and it may be stored in the storage area of the control circuit 201 (for example, cache memory) of the control circuit 201, ROM 202, RAM 203, an external device (for example, a server), etc. Further, at least one of the above-described display program 122, the above-described status history information 124, and the above-described status relationship information 126 may be stored in the auxiliary storage device 220 of the machine tool 200 instead of the auxiliary storage device 120 of the information processing apparatus 100.

[0102] <H. Functional Configuration of Information Processing System 10> Next, referring to FIGS. 9 and 10, the functional configuration of the information processing system 10 will be described. FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the information processing system 10.

[0103] As shown in FIG. 9, the information processing system 10 includes a control unit 50. The configuration of the control unit 50 is arbitrary. As an example, the control unit 50 is composed of at least one of the control circuit 101 (see FIG. 7) of the above-described information processing apparatus 100 and the control circuit 201 (see FIG. 8) of the above-described CNC unit 30.

[0104] The control unit 50 includes, as functional configurations, a state detection unit 52, an integration unit 54, and a display control unit 56. Hereinafter, these functional configurations will be described in order.

[0105] Note that each functional configuration may be implemented in any device within the information processing system 10. Part or all of the functional configurations shown in FIG. 9 may be implemented in the above-described information processing apparatus 100 (see FIG. 1) or may be implemented in the above-described machine tool 200 (for example, CNC 200A).

[0106] In one scenario, the state detection unit 52, the accumulating unit 54, and the display control unit 56 are all implemented in the information processing device 100 or the machine tool 200. In another scenario, the state detection unit 52 is implemented in the machine tool 200, and the accumulating unit 54 and the display control unit 56 are implemented in the information processing device 100. In yet another scenario, the state detection unit 52 and the accumulating unit 54 are implemented in the machine tool 200, and the display control unit 56 is implemented in the information processing device 100.

[0107] (H1. State detection unit 52) First, let's explain the function of the state detection unit 52 shown in Figure 9.

[0108] The state detection unit 52 detects various states related to the operation of the machine tool 200 and stores the duration of each state in the state history information 124 described above. The states to be detected are the primary state and the secondary state described above. The primary state and secondary state are as described above, so their explanation will not be repeated.

[0109] (H2. Estimation Section 54) Next, with reference to Figure 10, the functions of the accumulating unit 54 shown in Figure 9 will be explained. Figure 10 is a diagram illustrating the functions of the accumulating unit 54 and the display control unit 56, which will be described later.

[0110] The main state period TS1 shown in Figure 10 indicates the period during which the main state "S1" occurs. The main state period TS2 shown in Figure 10 indicates the period during which the main state "S2" occurs. The main state periods TS1 and TS2 are defined in the state history information 124 described above.

[0111] The sub-state period TS2A shown in Figure 10 indicates the period during which sub-state "S2A" occurs. The sub-state period TS2B shown in Figure 10 indicates the period during which sub-state "S2B" occurs. Sub-state periods TS2A and TS2B are defined in the state history information 124 described above. Sub-states "S2A" and "S2B" belong to the primary state "S2".

[0112] The integrating unit 54 integrates the sub-state periods included in each series of main state periods, categorized by type of sub-state. In the example shown in Figure 10, the integrating unit 54 integrates the sub-state period TS2A belonging to the series of main state periods TS2. The integrating unit 54 also integrates the sub-state period TS2B belonging to the series of main state periods TS2. The integration result from the integrating unit 54 is output to the display control unit 56.

[0113] (H3.Display control unit 56) Next, referring to Figure 10, the functions of the display control unit 56 shown in Figure 9 will be explained.

[0114] The display control unit 56 displays the main state object OB1, which represents the occurrence period for each of the main states "S1" and "S2" defined in the state history information 124, on the state history screen 130, associating it with the time axis TAX. In the example in Figure 10, the main state object OB1_1, which shows the occurrence period of main state "S1", and the main state object OB1_2, which shows the occurrence period of main state "S2", are displayed on the state history screen 130.

[0115] On the other hand, the display control unit 56 displays a sub-state object OB2_1 representing the cumulative period of occurrence of sub-state "S2A" and a sub-state object OB2_2 representing the cumulative period of occurrence of sub-state "S2B", based on the cumulative result calculated by the cumulative unit 54.

[0116] The sub-state objects OB2_1 and OB2_2 are displayed in association with the main state object OB1_2, which indicates the occurrence period of the higher-level main state "S2". For example, the display control unit 56 associates the main state object OB1_2 with the sub-state objects OB2_1 and OB2_2 by displaying the sub-state objects OB2_1 and OB2_2 inside the main state object OB1_2.

[0117] Preferably, the sub-state objects OB2_1 and OB2_2, which are displayed in association with the main state object OB1_2, represent the length of the accumulation period with a width in the direction parallel to the time axis TAX (i.e., the width in the left-right direction of the paper in Figure 10). In this case, the sub-state objects OB2_1 and OB2_2 are displayed in multiple columns parallel to each other.

[0118] This allows administrators to understand the cumulative duration of sub-states using time-axis TAX as a measure.

[0119] For example, if the primary state "S2" is "operating state" and the secondary state "S2A" or "S2B" is either "rapid traverse state," "cutting feed state," or "spindle rotation state," the manager can more easily grasp the machining efficiency.

[0120] As another example, if the primary state "S2" is the "normal stop state" and the secondary state "S2A" or "S2B" is the "operation state", the manager can more easily grasp the work efficiency of the operator when the machine tool 200 is in a normal stop state.

[0121] As another example, if the primary state "S2" is an "abnormal stop state" and the secondary state "S2A" or "S2B" is an "operation state," the manager can more easily grasp the work efficiency when the machine tool 200 is abnormally stopped.

[0122] <I.フローチャート> Next, with reference to Figure 11, the control flow related to the display process of the status history screen 130 described above will be explained. Figure 11 is a flowchart showing the flow of the display process of the status history screen 130.

[0123] The process shown in Figure 11 is realized, for example, by the control unit 50 of the information processing system 10 executing the display program 122 (see Figure 8) described above. In other aspects, part or all of the process may be performed by circuit elements or other hardware.

[0124] In step S110, the control unit 50 determines whether or not it has received a display operation of the state history screen 130 (see FIG. 10). If the control unit 50 determines that it has received a display operation of the state history screen 130 (YES in step S110), the control switches to step S112. Otherwise (NO in step S110), the control unit 50 re-executes the process of step S110.

[0125] In step S112, the control unit 50 acquires the above-described state history information 124 (see FIG. 3).

[0126] In step S114, the control unit 50 functions as the above-described integration unit 54 (see FIG. 9), refers to the state history information 124, and integrates the sub-state periods included in each series of main state periods according to the types of sub-states. Since the integration function is as described above, the description thereof will not be repeated.

[0127] In step S116, the control unit 50 functions as the above-described display control unit 56 (see FIG. 9) and displays the above-described state history screen 130 (see FIG. 10). On the state history screen 130, a main state object OB1 indicating the occurrence period of the main state and a sub-state object OB2 indicating the integrated period of the sub-states are displayed. Since the display function of the state history screen 130 is as described above, the description thereof will not be repeated.

[0128] <J. Modified Example 1> Next, referring to FIG. 12, another example of the state history screen 130 shown in FIG. 10 will be described. FIG. 12 is a diagram showing a state history screen 130 according to Modified Example 1.

[0129] In the example of FIG. 10 described above, the sub-state objects OB2_1 and OB2_2 represented the length of the integrated period by the width in the direction parallel to the time axis TAX. However, when the width of the main state object OB1_2 is short, the sub-state objects OB2_1 and OB2_2 also become short. In such a case, it becomes difficult for the operator to grasp the integrated times of the sub-states S2A and S2B.

[0130] Therefore, in the display mode according to this modification example, the sub-state objects OB2_1 and OB2_2 represent the length of the integration period in terms of the width in the direction orthogonal to the time axis TAX. Thereby, even when the main-state object is short, it becomes easier for the operator to grasp the integration period of the sub-state object.

[0131] In the example of FIG. 12, a main-state object OB1_1 indicating the occurrence period of the main state "S1", a main-state object OB1_2 indicating the occurrence period of the main state "S2", and a sub-state object OB2_1 indicating the integration period of the sub-state "S2A" are displayed on the state history screen 130.

[0132] The occurrence period of the main state "S1" is represented by the width of the main-state object OB1_1 in the direction parallel to the time axis TAX (i.e., the width in the left-right direction of the paper surface of FIG. 12). Similarly, the occurrence period of the main state "S2" is represented by the width of the main-state object OB1_2 in the direction parallel to the time axis TAX (i.e., the width in the left-right direction of the paper surface of FIG. 12).

[0133] On the other hand, the integration period of the sub-state "S2A" is represented by the width of the sub-state object OB2_1 in the direction orthogonal to the time axis TAX (i.e., the width in the up-down direction of the paper surface of FIG. 12).

[0134] <K. Modification Example 2> Next, referring to FIG. 13, another example of the state history screen 130 shown in FIG. 10 will be described. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing the state history screen 130 according to Modification Example 2.

[0135] During the execution of the machining program 222, if some abnormality occurs, the main-state object OB1 indicating the occurrence period of the main state "operating state" separates. The information processing system 10 according to this modification example integrally displays the separated main-state object OB1 in a series of machining.

[0136] In the example in Figure 13, the period from the start to the end of execution of the machining program 222 is shown as the execution period ΔT. The information processing system 10 determines that the execution of the machining program 222 has started when a specific instruction code defined in the machining program 222 is executed. Examples of such instruction codes include codes that indicate the start of the machining program 222 cycle (for example, M codes "M03", "M04", or the first line in the program).

[0137] Furthermore, the information processing system 10 determines that the execution of the processing program 222 has ended when a specific instruction code defined in the processing program 222 is executed. Examples of such instruction codes include M codes "M02" and "M30".

[0138] In the example in Figure 13, the main state object OB1, which indicates the period during which the main state "operating state" occurs, is separated into main state object OB1_1 and main state object OB1_2 during the execution period ΔT of the machining program 222. Between main state objects OB1_1 and OB1_2, there is a main state object OB1 indicating an "abnormal stop state" and a main state object OB1 indicating a "normal stop state". This means that some machining occurred during the machining of the workpiece, after which the machine tool 200 abnormally stopped, and the operator took action to restore it.

[0139] Thus, if there are multiple main state objects OB1 indicating the main state "operating state" during the execution period ΔT of the processing program, the information processing system 10 integrates the multiple main state objects OB1 and also integrates the sub-state objects OB2 contained in each of the multiple main state objects OB1.

[0140] Figure 13 shows the state history screen 130A before integration and the state history screen 130B after integration. In the state history screen 130A before integration, the main state objects OB1_1 and OB1_2, which are separated, are integrated into the main state object OB1X in the state history screen 130B after integration. In addition, the sub-state object OB2_1 contained in the main state object OB1_1 and the sub-state object OB2_1 contained in the main state object OB1_2 are integrated into the sub-state object OB2_1X. Furthermore, the sub-state object OB2_2 contained in the main state object OB1_1 and the sub-state object OB2_2 contained in the main state object OB1_2 are integrated into the sub-state object OB2_2X.

[0141] By checking the integrated status history screen 130B, the operator can focus on the period from the start to the end of the execution of the machining program 222 and check the accumulated time of the sub-states. This makes it easier for the manager to grasp the machining efficiency for the series of machining programs 222.

[0142] The embodiments disclosed herein should be considered in all respects to be illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is indicated by the claims rather than by the foregoing description, and all modifications within the meaning and scope equivalent to the claims are intended to be included. [Explanation of symbols]

[0143] 10 Information processing system, 30 CNC unit, 50 Control unit, 52 State detection unit, 54 Accumulation unit, 56 Display control unit, 100 Information processing device, 101 Control circuit, 102 ROM, 103 RAM, 104 Communication interface, 105 Display interface, 106 Display, 107 Input interface, 108 Input device, 109 Internal bus, 120 Auxiliary storage device, 122 Display program, 124 State history information, 126 State relationship information, 130 State history screen, 130A State history screen, 130B State history screen, 130X State history screen, 200 Machine tool, 200A Machine tool, 200B Machine tool, 201 Control circuit, 202 ROM, 203 RAM, 204 Communication interface, 209 Internal bus, 220 Auxiliary storage device, 222 Machining program, 230A Drive unit, 230B Drive unit, 231B Motor driver, 231C Motor driver, 231X Motor driver, 231Y Motor driver, 231Z Motor driver, 232B Motor, 232C Motor, 232X Motor, 232Y Motor, 232Z Motor, 240A Tool storage unit, 240B Machine machine body, 250 Magazine, 270 Spindle head, 275 Spindle cylinder, 280 Spindle, 400 Control panel, 405 Display, 406 Operation keys, D Door, NW1 Network, OB Main state object, OB1 Main state object, OB1X Main state object, OB1_1 Main state object, OB1_2 Main state object, OB2 Sub-state object, OB2_1 Sub-state object, OB2_1X Sub-state object, OB2_2 Sub-state object, OB2_2X Sub-state object, TAX time axis, TS1 primary state period, TS2 primary state period, TS2A secondary state period, TS2B secondary state period, ΔT execution period.

Claims

1. An information processing system, Equipped with a control unit, The control unit executes a process to acquire state history information indicating the period during which the machine tool was in each state. The state of the aforementioned machine tool is, Multiple main states, Each of these includes a plurality of substates belonging to one of the plurality of primary states, Each of the main states defined in the state history information is associated with a first time information indicating the first period during which the machine tool was in that main state. Each of the sub-states defined in the state history information is associated with a second time information indicating the second period during which the machine tool was in that sub-state. The control unit executes a process to display a history screen related to the status history information, The aforementioned display process is, For each of the main states defined in the state history information, a process is performed to display a first object indicating the first period on the history screen, corresponding to the time axis; A process for accumulating the second period included in the first period for each first object and each type of sub-state, An information processing system including a process of displaying a second object representing the length of each accumulation period obtained in the aforementioned accumulation process on the history screen, in association with the corresponding first object.

2. The aforementioned primary state is a state whose occurrence period does not overlap with other types of primary states. The information processing system according to claim 1, wherein the substate is a state whose occurrence period may overlap with that of other types of substates.

3. The information processing system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the second object is displayed within the corresponding first object.

4. The information processing system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the second object represents the length of the accumulation period with a width in a direction parallel to the time axis.

5. The information processing system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the second object represents the length of the accumulation period by its width in a direction perpendicular to the time axis.

6. The aforementioned main state includes an operating state indicating that the machine tool was in operation, The information processing system according to claim 3, wherein the control unit, during the period from the start of execution of the machining program to the end of execution of the machining program, integrates the plurality of first objects that indicate the operating state, and also integrates the second objects contained in each of the plurality of first objects.

7. A display method executed in an information processing system, The machine tool includes a step of acquiring state history information indicating the period during which it was in each state, The state of the aforementioned machine tool is, Multiple main states, Each of these includes a plurality of substates belonging to one of the plurality of primary states, Each of the main states defined in the state history information is associated with a first time information indicating the first period during which the machine tool was in that main state. Each of the sub-states defined in the state history information is associated with a second time information indicating the second period during which the machine tool was in that sub-state. The display method further includes the step of displaying a history screen relating to the status history information, The aforementioned display step is, For each of the main states defined in the state history information, the step of displaying a first object indicating the first period on the history screen in association with the time axis; A step of accumulating the second period included in the first period for each first object and each type of sub-state, A display method comprising the step of displaying a second object representing the length of each accumulation period obtained in the aforementioned accumulation process on the history screen, associated with the corresponding first object.

8. A display program that is executed on a computer, The display program causes the computer to execute a process to acquire state history information indicating the period during which the machine tool was in each state. The state of the aforementioned machine tool is, Multiple main states, Each of these includes a plurality of substates belonging to one of the plurality of primary states, Each of the main states defined in the state history information is associated with a first time information indicating the first period during which the machine tool was in that main state. Each of the sub-states defined in the state history information is associated with a second time information indicating the second period during which the machine tool was in that sub-state. The display program further causes the computer to execute a process to display a history screen related to the status history information. The aforementioned display process is, For each of the main states defined in the state history information, a process is performed to display a first object indicating the first period on the history screen, corresponding to the time axis; A process for accumulating the second period included in the first period for each first object and each type of sub-state, A display program that includes a process of displaying a second object representing the length of each accumulation period obtained in the aforementioned accumulation process on the history screen, associating it with the corresponding first object.

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