Integrated display program and information processing device for welding work support information

Abstract

Conventional work support systems using collaborative robots and laser welding machines required operators to manage multiple screens and interfaces, individually handling information such as the collaborative robot's operation program, welding conditions, machine status, and work instructions. This resulted in decreased work efficiency and an increased risk of operational errors. [Solution] The present invention relates to a program and information processing device that integrates and displays work support information required by an operator on a single screen during laser welding work using a collaborative robot. Specifically, multiple pieces of information, including work support information obtained from a server based on a work instruction sheet, are displayed on an integrated screen according to the operator's work procedure.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of industrial automation technology, and particularly relates to a program and an information processing device for assisting the operation of a laser welding machine for metal processing operated by a collaborative robot.

Background Art

[0002] In the field of the metal processing industry, laser welding machines are widely used for performing precise welding operations. Collaborative robots play an important role in various industries as an automation technology that operates the welding machine in cooperation with an operator.

[0003] However, in the current system, the operator needs to separately manage the operation program of the collaborative robot, welding conditions, machine status, information in the work instruction, etc., and the work efficiency is reduced because multiple screens and interfaces need to be operated, and there is a problem that the risk of operation errors increases.

[0004] Furthermore, there is a problem that the means for centrally managing work support information and providing it to the operator at an appropriate timing is insufficient, and the accuracy and efficiency of the welding work are not improved.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0005]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0006] An object of the present invention is to improve the efficiency and accuracy of work by providing a system that acquires work support information from a server based on specific information in a work instruction in laser welding work using a collaborative robot and displays integrated information according to the work procedure of an operator. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The present invention relates to a system and program for efficiently providing information to an operator (user) to support the operation of a laser welding machine for metal processing, which is operated by a collaborative robot.

[0008] The program to be executed by the information processing device includes a function that allows the operator to input specific information from a work instruction sheet and to retrieve work support information related to the welding target object associated with that specific information from a server. The program also provides a process to display the collaborative robot's operation program name in the first area, the welding conditions for the welding target object selected by the user in the second area, the operating status of the metal processing laser welding machine in the third area, and the work support information based on the work instruction sheet in the fourth area, all on the same screen of the display device.

[0009] Furthermore, the present invention provides a program in which the display device screen displays the welding conditions of the object to be welded in a second area, the operating status of the laser welding machine in a third area, and work support information in a fourth area, and these displays are arranged in the order that the user checks when performing welding work.

[0010] The program is characterized in that, on the display device screen, a second area for displaying the welding conditions of the object to be welded is located on the left side of the screen, a third area for displaying the operating status of the laser welding machine is located in the center of the screen, and a fourth area for displaying work support information is located on the right side of the screen.

[0011] The present invention provides an information processing device for displaying work support information in a laser welding machine for metal processing operated by a collaborative robot. The information processing device has an input function for inputting specific information from a work instruction sheet and an acquisition function for obtaining work support information related to the object to be welded from a server. It is also characterized by having a display function that displays the collaborative robot's operation program name in a first area, welding conditions in a second area, the operating status of the laser welding machine in a third area, and work support information in a fourth area, all on the same screen.

[0012] The aforementioned display function is characterized in that a second area for displaying welding conditions, a third area for displaying the operating status of the laser welding machine, and a fourth area for displaying work support information are displayed on the screen in a manner consistent with the order in which the operator checks them when performing welding work.

[0013] Furthermore, the present invention provides an information processing device characterized in that, on the screen of the display function, the second area is displayed on the left side of the screen, the third area is displayed in the center of the screen, and the fourth area is displayed on the right side of the screen. [Effects of the Invention]

[0014] This invention integrates and displays welding support information based on work instructions on a single screen, eliminating the need for the operator to switch between multiple screens and improving work efficiency.

[0015] Furthermore, consistent information distribution is guaranteed, allowing work to proceed quickly and accurately without disrupting the work procedure. In addition, welding conditions are transmitted directly to the welding machine, preventing errors caused by manual operation and improving work accuracy. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0016] [Figure 1] This is a layout diagram of the screen displayed by the display device according to the present invention. [Figure 2] This is a configuration diagram showing an example of the entire system, specifically a diagram illustrating the overall system configuration in which a collaborative robot is controlled by an external terminal. [Figure 3] This is a configuration diagram showing an example of the entire system, illustrating a configuration in which a collaborative robot is controlled within the system of the present invention. [Figure 4] This is an operation flowchart showing the procedure for an operator to input work instructions and proceed with welding work. [Figure 5] This is a transmission process diagram showing the flow of welding conditions being transmitted from the information processing device to the welding machine. [Figure 6]It is a diagram showing an example of display of processed sample image data included in work support information.

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0017] The present invention relates to a program and method that enable an operator to efficiently and quickly check work support information of a laser welding machine (400) for metal processing operated by a collaborative robot (300). Specifically, the operator inputs "specific information" based on a work instruction, and acquires "work support information" from a server (500) based on that information. The present invention integrally displays the operation program name of the collaborative robot (300), welding conditions, the operation status of the laser welding machine (400), and work support information on a display device (200), and aggregates and displays the information required by the operator on one screen, thereby greatly improving the efficiency and accuracy of welding work.

[0018] As a characteristic component of the present invention, as shown in FIG. 1, the screen of the display device (200) is divided into four regions, and different types of information are displayed in each region. The operation program name of the collaborative robot (300) is displayed in the first region (210), and the welding conditions are displayed in the second region (220). The operation status of the laser welding machine (400) is displayed in the third region (230), and work support information is displayed in the fourth region (240). Thereby, the operator can check all the information necessary during the welding work at a glance, and there is no need to switch between a plurality of screens as in the conventional case.

[0019] In addition, for the input of the work instruction, a plurality of methods such as scanning a two-dimensional code using an operator input device (600) not shown in the figure or manual input are provided, and it is designed to be able to flexibly respond according to the work environment and the needs of the operator.

[0020] Furthermore, since the welding conditions are transmitted from the information processing apparatus (100) to the laser welding machine (400), there is no need for the operator to manually set them, which improves work efficiency and has the effect of preventing setting errors. As a result, the welding operation proceeds quickly and accuracy is also ensured.

[0021] (1. Input of specific information in work instruction) In the present invention, when the operator starts work, it is necessary to input "specific information" into the information processing apparatus (100) based on a work instruction. The specific information is detailed information related to the welding object and the work, and based on this, the information processing apparatus (100) acquires related "work support information" from the server (500). All the information necessary for the welding operation is described in the work instruction, and the operator proceeds with the work based on this information.

[0022] (Work instruction) The work instruction is usually provided in a printed form or a digital format (e.g., tablet or electronic paper), and "specific information" for identifying the welding object is provided. This specific information is provided in the form of a two-dimensional code, and is scanned using a camera or a two-dimensional code reader connected to the information processing apparatus (100), and automatically input into the information processing apparatus (100). By this method, work efficiency and prevention of input errors are realized.

[0023] The two-dimensional code uses a general standard and can be flexibly adapted according to the resolution of the camera and the corresponding format of the reader as required.

[0024] (Method of inputting specific information in work instruction) As a method of inputting specific information, the following means are provided:

[0025] Scanning of two-dimensional code: Scan the two-dimensional code attached to the work instruction with a camera, decode the specific information, and input it into the information processing apparatus (100). By this, manual input errors by the operator can be prevented. Also, the two-dimensional code is generated according to a standard such as ISO / IEC 18004.

[0026] Manual input: A method in which an operator manually enters specific information from a work instruction sheet using a keyboard or touch panel. This method is used when a QR code is unavailable or when the operator needs to enter additional information.

[0027] Other input methods: Flexible input methods such as voice recognition and touchscreens are also provided, which are particularly effective in hands-free and specialized work environments. These methods are integrated into the system and are designed to allow operators to select customized input methods according to their needs.

[0028] (2. Operation and coordination of collaborative robots) The following describes several embodiments illustrating the relationship between the present invention and the operation of the collaborative robot (300).

[0029] Example 1: An example in which a collaborative robot is controlled by an external, independent control terminal. The embodiment shown in Figure 2 is an example of a system in which the collaborative robot (300) is controlled by an external, independent control terminal. Since the collaborative robot (300) is controlled by an external control terminal, this system does not include the control function of the collaborative robot (300), but it is responsible for providing welding conditions and work support information necessary for the robot's operation.

[0030] The collaborative robot (300) operates the laser welding machine (400) under external control, and this system is responsible for managing and displaying the progress of the welding work and related information.

[0031] When the operator inputs specific information based on the work instructions, the information processing device (100) retrieves welding conditions and work support information from the server (500) and provides them to the collaborative robot (300) and the operator. The operation program of the collaborative robot (300) is managed by an external control terminal, but necessary information and settings regarding the object to be welded are provided through the information processing device (100) of the present invention.

[0032] During welding, the collaborative robot (300) uses sensors to monitor the work environment and welding conditions. If an abnormality is detected, an external control terminal takes action, automatically stopping the work and issuing a warning to the operator. In addition, the progress of the work and the monitoring results are fed back through the information processing device (100) and displayed on the display device (200) so that the operator can easily monitor them.

[0033] Example 2: An example in which the control of a collaborative robot is performed within the system. The embodiment shown in Figure 3 is an embodiment in which the collaborative robot (300) is controlled within the system. In this case, the information processing device (100) has the function of directly controlling the collaborative robot (300) and operates the laser welding machine (400) based on "specific information" input by the operator.

[0034] Specifically, when specific information from a work instruction sheet is entered into the system, the information processing device (100) selects the corresponding operation program for the collaborative robot (300) from the server (500), and the collaborative robot (300) automatically moves to the designated welding position. At this time, the collaborative robot (300) calculates the optimal operation path based on the shape and arrangement of the object to be welded and performs the welding work according to the set welding conditions.

[0035] The collaborative robot (300) uses built-in sensors to monitor welding temperature, laser power, welding speed, and other parameters during operation. If an abnormality is detected, the system automatically stops the operation and warns the operator. The progress of the work and the operating status of the laser welding machine (400) are also fed back via the information processing device (100) and displayed on the display device (200) for easy monitoring by the operator.

[0036] (3. Obtaining work support information from the server) Figure 4 shows an operation flowchart illustrating the procedure for an operator to input work instructions and proceed with welding work. When specific information is entered, the information processing device (100) accesses the server (500) via the network to obtain work support information.

[0037] This work support information is necessary for the operator to carry out welding work smoothly and is provided visually. Specifically, it includes detailed illustrations of the welding area, welding procedure guidelines, and sample image data of the welded result. This information is automatically reflected on the display device (200) operated by the operator, and the operator can check it immediately during the welding work.

[0038] (Types of work support information) Work support information is classified as follows, according to the type of work:

[0039] New Operation: For new welding operations, the latest drawings and welding procedures provided by the server (500) are displayed on the display device (200). This allows the operator to proceed with the work step by step with support. 3D models and CAD data are used for the illustrations, and the procedures are displayed as step-by-step guidelines. Safety measures and precautions required for the work are also presented.

[0040] Similar Tasks: If similar tasks have been performed in the past, the operator can retrieve that past data from the server (500) and use it as a reference to proceed with the work. The selection of similar tasks is performed automatically based on specific information in the work order, and the appropriate past tasks are searched on the server (500). This makes it possible to proceed with the work efficiently while saving time.

[0041] Repeat Work: When performing the same welding work as previously done, the previous work support information stored on the server (500) is displayed again. This information includes welding conditions and collaborative robot (300) operation patterns, and this data is stored in a reusable format. The server (500) regularly backs up this data and automatically updates it as the work progresses, so the latest information is always available. In addition, even if the welding conditions are changed, the system is in place to allow the operator to immediately access the updated data.

[0042] (4. Display of information on the integrated screen) In this invention, the screen of the display device (200) is divided into four areas, and different information is displayed in each area. This layout allows the operator to see the information they need at a glance during work, eliminating the need to switch screens and enabling efficient welding operations. The displayed information is designed based on the operator's work sequence, and appropriate information is displayed in each area.

[0043] Domain 1: Names of motion programs for collaborative robots The first area (210) displays the name of the collaborative robot's (300) operation program. This program is automatically selected based on specific information in the work instruction sheet, allowing the operator to verify that the program has been selected correctly before starting work. Furthermore, the program version and the steps to be executed are also displayed, allowing the operator to monitor the progress of the work.

[0044] Area 2: Display of Welding Conditions The second area (220) displays welding conditions for the workpiece (e.g., plate material, plate thickness, joint type, welding type, laser power, welding speed, welding pattern, etc.). The operator can check that all settings are properly configured before starting work, and can also immediately check if the conditions change during work.

[0045] Area 3: Displaying the operating status of the laser welding machine The third area (230) displays the operating status of the laser welding machine (400). This includes the machine's temperature, laser power, operating status, and error information, allowing the operator to constantly monitor the machine's condition during welding and respond quickly if an abnormality occurs. In the event of an abnormality, an alert is automatically displayed, clearly indicating the location of the problem.

[0046] Domain 4: Display of work support information The fourth area (240) displays work support information related to the object to be welded. This information includes detailed diagrams of the welding area, work procedures, and sample data of the welded area, allowing the operator to perform the work accurately by referring to these. The image data of the welding area is designed to be visually easy to understand, which helps in understanding the progress and results of the work.

[0047] (5. Screen layout according to the operator's work sequence) In this invention, as shown in Figure 1, the screen layout is designed so that necessary information is efficiently displayed according to the operator's work procedure. This layout allows the operator to sequentially check the necessary information as the work progresses, enabling the welding work to proceed smoothly.

[0048] Specifically, the second area (220) (displaying welding conditions) is shown on the left side of the screen, the third area (230) (displaying the operating status of the laser welding machine (400)) is shown in the center, and the fourth area (240) (displaying work support information) is shown on the right side. The welding conditions are information that should be checked in the initial stages of work, and are placed on the left side so that the operator can check the settings before starting work.

[0049] The laser welding machine (400) is positioned in the center so that the operator can always visually confirm its operating status during work. While the work support information is supplementary, it is positioned on the right side for reference as the work progresses, allowing for checks as needed.

[0050] Here, the screen layout, where welding conditions are displayed on the left side of the screen, the operating status of the laser welding machine (400) is in the center, and work support information is on the right, is acceptable as long as the display is arranged to match the eye movements of the operator viewing the screen, even if each area is not perfectly divided into left, center, and right.

[0051] Therefore, it is not necessarily required that each area divides the screen into three equal parts for display. Nor is it necessary for each area to be rectangular.

[0052] This layout is designed to allow operators to view information in a visually natural order, based on a workflow that progresses sequentially from left to right. This enables operators to efficiently perform a series of tasks, including checking welding conditions, monitoring the progress of welding work, and referring to work support information as needed.

[0053] (6. Submission of welding conditions) Figure 5 shows the transmission process illustrating the flow of welding conditions being transmitted from the information processing device (100) to the laser welding machine (400). The information processing device (100) of the present invention includes a function to directly transmit welding conditions associated with work instructions in the server (500) to the laser welding machine (400). This function eliminates the need for the operator to manually input conditions, prevents setting errors, and improves work efficiency.

[0054] Welding conditions are set by an information processing device (100) based on the work instructions, and then transmitted to the laser welding machine (400) by the operator. The transmission process is carried out via normal network communication and supports either wireless or wired communication. The data is encrypted based on a standard protocol (e.g., TCP / IP) and transmitted securely.

[0055] Furthermore, the laser welding machine (400) has a feedback function to confirm whether the received conditions have been processed correctly, and a confirmation message is sent back to the information processing device (100).

[0056] Once the conditions are transmitted to the laser welding machine (400), a notification appears on the operator's display device (200) to confirm that the transmission is complete. This notification includes the content of the transmitted welding conditions and the transmission result, allowing the operator to reconfirm the accuracy of the conditions.

[0057] Furthermore, if an anomaly is detected during the transmission process, an error message will be displayed, and measures will be taken to prevent erroneous transmissions or incomplete data transmissions.

[0058] As a post-transmission verification procedure, the information processing device (100) monitors the feedback from the laser welding machine (400) and, upon completion of reception, requests the operator to reconfirm, thereby minimizing the occurrence of errors and malfunctions. This allows the operator to confirm that the conditions have been accurately reflected in the laser welding machine (400) and to proceed with the work with confidence.

[0059] (7. Image data included in work support information) Figure 6 shows an example of displaying post-processing sample image data included in the work support information. The work support information of the present invention includes image data that serves as a sample of the workpiece after welding. This image data is photographic data of the welded part actually processed by a skilled welder, and the operator can refer to this photograph during and after the work to visually confirm the finished product.

[0060] This photographic data is used as a standard to verify the finish of the weld bead, the shape of the weld, and the uniformity of the weld, especially in precision welding operations. This allows operators to evaluate and adjust their work based on the same quality standards as those used by skilled welders.

[0061] Image data is automatically acquired from the server (500) and displayed on the display device (200) as part of the work support information. By referring to this image data during welding, the operator can check and adjust as needed according to the progress of the welding, thereby accurately achieving the final finish.

[0062] This feature is particularly important in welding operations where precision is required, as it improves the accuracy of the work by allowing users to refer to actual work results based on the skills of experienced welders. Furthermore, photographs of the welded area include annotations and reference dimensional information, allowing operators to verify that the work results conform to appropriate standards.

[0063] (8. Supplement) The functions and configurations described in each embodiment of the present invention are not limited to being implemented individually, and the described elements and functions can be combined as appropriate within the scope of technical compatibility. Therefore, the scope of the present invention accommodates a wide variety of modifications, including these combinations. [Industrial applicability]

[0064] This invention is widely applicable to industries using collaborative robots and laser welding machines. In particular, it can efficiently assist operators in fields requiring precise welding, contributing to improved work accuracy and efficiency. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0065] 100 Information Processing Devices 200 Display device 210 Domain 1 (Display of collaborative robot operation program name) 220 Second area (Welding condition display) 230 Third area (Display of laser welding machine operating status) 240 4th area (work support information display) 300 Collaborative Robots 400 Laser Welding Machines 500 servers 600 Operator Input Device

Claims

1. A program that causes an information processing device to execute a process to display information on a display device that assists in the operation of a laser welding machine for metal processing operated by a collaborative robot, A step to accept input of specific information for the work order from the user, The steps include: obtaining work support information from a server regarding the welding target associated with the specific information in the aforementioned work instruction sheet; A first area that displays the name of the collaborative robot's motion program, A second area that displays the welding conditions of the object to be welded, A third area displays the operating status of a laser welding machine for metal processing, A fourth area that displays work support information relating to the welding target, associated with the specific information of the aforementioned work instruction sheet, The steps include displaying the information on the same screen of the aforementioned display device, A program that causes an information processing device to execute.

2. The program according to claim 1, On the screen of the aforementioned display device, A second region for displaying the welding conditions of the object to be welded, A third area for displaying the operating status of the laser welding machine for metal processing, A fourth area for displaying work support information relating to the welding object, Displayed in the order in which the user views the information while performing welding tasks. A program characterized by the following features.

3. The program according to claim 2, On the screen of the aforementioned display device, A second area displaying the welding conditions of the object to be welded is shown on the left side of the screen. A third area displaying the operating status of the laser welding machine for metal processing is displayed in the center of the screen. A fourth area for displaying work support information related to the welding object is displayed on the right side of the screen. A program characterized by the following features.

4. An information processing device for displaying work support information in a laser welding machine for metal processing operated by a collaborative robot, It has an input function for users to enter specific information for work orders. The system includes a function to acquire work support information related to the welding target, associated with the specific information in the aforementioned work instruction sheet, from a server. A first area that displays the name of the collaborative robot's motion program, A second area that displays the welding conditions of the object to be welded, A third area displays the operating status of a laser welding machine for metal processing, A fourth area that displays work support information regarding the welding target obtained based on the specific information in the aforementioned work instruction sheet, It has a display function that displays them on the same screen. An information processing device characterized by the following:

5. An information processing apparatus according to claim 4, On the screen of the aforementioned display function, A second region for displaying the welding conditions of the object to be welded, A third area for displaying the operating status of the laser welding machine for metal processing, A fourth area for displaying work support information relating to the welding object, Displayed in the order in which the user views the information while performing welding tasks. An information processing device characterized by the following:

6. An information processing device according to claim 5, On the screen of the aforementioned display function, A second area displaying the welding conditions of the object to be welded is shown on the left side of the screen. A third area displaying the operating status of the laser welding machine for metal processing is displayed in the center of the screen. A fourth area displaying work support information related to the welding object is shown on the right side of the screen. An information processing device characterized by the following:

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