Storage systems and storage methods

Abstract

To provide a storage system and storage method that can streamline welding operations. [Solution] The storage system 1 according to this disclosure includes a reception unit 11 that accepts torch electrode replenishment reservations, a welding device control unit 12 that controls the welding device so as not to perform a torch electrode replacement operation when a torch electrode replenishment reservation is accepted, and a notification unit 13 that notifies that a torch electrode can be replenished to the storage location when the welding device is controlled not to perform a torch electrode replacement operation.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a storage system and a storage method.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 describes a torch electrode replacement device that replaces the torch electrode of a welding device without relying on manual work by an operator.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] By the way, as described in Patent Document 1, when replacing the torch electrode without relying on manual work by an operator, it is necessary to appropriately replenish the torch electrode at the storage location of the torch electrode. However, when an operator replenishes the torch electrode, the welding device and the drive mechanism of the storage device may approach the operator, which may cause an emergency stop.

[0005] When an emergency stop occurs, the welding operation stops, so the efficiency of the welding operation decreases. That is, when an operator replenishes the torch electrode, there is a problem that an emergency stop caused by the operator may occur and the efficiency of the welding operation may decrease. Patent Document 1 does not disclose a technique capable of solving the above-described problems.

[0006] The present disclosure has been made to solve such problems, and an object thereof is to provide a storage system and a storage method capable of improving the efficiency of welding operations.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0007] The storage method related to this disclosure is as follows: The reception desk accepts reservations for torch electrode replenishment, A welding equipment control unit controls the welding equipment so as not to perform a torch electrode replacement operation when a reservation for torch electrode replenishment is received, The welding apparatus includes a notification unit that notifies that the torch electrode can be replenished to the storage position when the welding apparatus is controlled not to perform a torch electrode replacement operation, It is a storage system.

[0008] The storage method related to this disclosure is as follows: The system further includes an opening / closing door control unit that controls the opening and closing door that shields the storage area for the torch electrodes. The door opening / closing control unit controls the door to open only when the welding equipment is controlled not to perform a torch electrode replacement operation. A storage system would also be acceptable.

[0009] The storage method related to this disclosure is as follows: The jig for housing multiple torch electrodes is replaced in the storage area, thereby replenishing the torch electrodes. A storage system would also be acceptable.

[0010] The storage method related to this disclosure is as follows: The reception department has received further notifications to resume normal control of the welding equipment. When the reception unit receives notification to resume normal control of the welding equipment, the welding equipment control unit controls the welding equipment to enable the replacement of the torch electrode. A storage system would also be acceptable.

[0011] The storage method related to this disclosure is as follows: We are now accepting reservations for torch electrode replacements. When a torch electrode replenishment reservation is received, the welding machine is controlled so that it does not perform the torch electrode replacement operation. When the welding equipment is controlled not to perform a torch electrode replacement operation, it notifies that the torch electrode can be replenished to its storage location. It is a storage method.

Effect of the Invention

[0012] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to provide a storage system and a storage method that can improve the efficiency of welding work.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0013] [Figure 1] It is a block diagram showing the configuration of the storage system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] It is a block diagram showing the configuration of the storage system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] It is a schematic front view showing the configuration of the storage system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] It is a flowchart showing the storage method according to the first embodiment.

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0014] <First Embodiment> (Configuration of the Storage System) Hereinafter, the first embodiment according to the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. First, the configuration of the storage system according to this embodiment will be described in detail.

[0015] The storage system 1 according to this embodiment is a system for storing the torch electrode used in the welding apparatus. More specifically, the storage system 1 according to this embodiment is a system that controls the operations of the storage apparatus for storing the torch electrode and the welding apparatus that uses the torch electrode.

[0016] As described above, the storage system 1 according to this embodiment controls the operation of the welding apparatus that uses the torch electrode. The welding apparatus according to this embodiment performs welding by using the torch electrode. And when the torch electrode is consumed with the execution of the welding work, it accesses the storage apparatus of the torch electrode and replaces the torch electrode without approaching the operator's hand.

[0017] Furthermore, as described above, the storage system 1 according to this embodiment controls a storage device for storing torch electrodes. The storage device for storing torch electrodes stores torch electrodes for replacement by the welding apparatus according to this embodiment. The storage device according to this embodiment stores multiple torch electrodes by housing them in a jig.

[0018] Torch electrodes stored in the storage device are consumed by the welding equipment described above. When the number of torch electrodes stored in the storage device becomes low, they are replenished by the workers. For example, a worker prepares a replacement jig containing multiple torch electrodes. The worker then replenishes the torch electrodes by swapping the jig stored in the storage area inside the storage device with the replacement jig. Furthermore, it is preferable that the storage area where the jigs are housed is shielded from the various drive mechanisms of the storage device and welding device by a cover or the like.

[0019] The storage system 1 according to this embodiment is implemented, for example, as a computer device. Figure 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the storage system according to the first embodiment. More specifically, Figure 2 is a block diagram showing the device configuration of the storage system according to the first embodiment.

[0020] The storage system 1 according to this embodiment includes a processor P and memory M, as shown in Figure 2. The processor P is various types of processors such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), or FPGA (field-programmable gate array), and the memory M is a main memory implemented using RAM (Random Access Memory), ROM (Read Only Memory), etc. The processor P reads and executes various programs recorded in memory M, thereby performing the functions of each functional block shown in Figure 1.

[0021] The program, when loaded into a computer, includes a set of instructions (or software code) for causing the computer to perform one or more of the functions described in the embodiments. The program may be stored on a non-temporary computer-readable medium or a physical storage medium. Examples, but not limited to, include random-access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), flash memory, solid-state drive (SSD) or other memory technologies, CD-ROM, digital versatile disc (DVD), Blu-ray® disc or other optical disc storage, magnetic cassette, magnetic tape, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices. The program may be transmitted over a temporary computer-readable medium or a communication medium. Examples, but not limited to, include temporary computer-readable medium or a communication medium that includes electrically, optically, acoustically, or otherwise propagating signals.

[0022] Furthermore, the storage system 1 according to this disclosure may be implemented as a single device or by having multiple computer devices cooperate. In other words, the storage system 1 according to this disclosure may be a system comprising one or more processors and one or more memories, wherein one or more processors perform the functions of each functional block shown in Figure 1.

[0023] Let's return to the explanation of Figure 1. The reception desk 11 receives various notifications from workers who replenish the torch electrodes. Specifically, the reception unit 11 according to this embodiment is connected to a four-button device as shown in Figure 3. The reception unit 11 receives a notification corresponding to the button pressed when an employee presses any of the four buttons.

[0024] Figure 3 is a schematic front view showing the configuration of the storage system according to the first embodiment. More specifically, Figure 3 is a schematic front view showing the configuration of the four buttons according to this embodiment. As shown in Figure 3, the four-button system 2 according to this embodiment includes a replenishment reservation button 21, a replenishment start button 22, a replenishment completion button 23, a restart operation button 24, a replenishment reservation light 25, and a replenishment available light 26.

[0025] The reception unit 11 accepts torch electrode replenishment reservations. Specifically, the reception unit 11 accepts torch electrode replenishment reservations by detecting when the replenishment reservation button 21 is pressed by an operator. Here, a torch electrode replenishment reservation refers to a state in which an operator desires to replenish the torch electrode, and the storage system 1 has started or is performing preparations to replenish the torch electrode. When the reception unit 11 accepts a torch electrode replenishment reservation, it notifies the welding equipment control unit 12 and the notification unit 13 of this fact.

[0026] As will be explained in more detail later, when the reception unit 11 receives a reservation for torch electrode replenishment, the notification unit 13 lights up the replenishment reservation light 25. Furthermore, when the storage system 1 has completed preparations for replenishing the torch electrodes, the notification unit 13 illuminates the replenishing light 26.

[0027] Furthermore, the reception unit 11 receives requests to open the opening door. Specifically, the reception unit 11 receives a request to open the opening door by detecting that the replenishment start button 22 has been pressed by a worker. When the reception unit 11 receives a reservation for torch electrode replenishment, it notifies the opening door control unit 14 of this fact.

[0028] As will be explained in more detail later, when the reception unit 11 receives a request to open the door, the door control unit 14 checks whether the welding equipment is controlled to prevent the torch electrode replacement operation. If the door control unit 14 confirms that the welding equipment is controlled to prevent the torch electrode replacement operation, it opens the door that shields the storage area for the torch electrode.

[0029] Furthermore, the reception unit 11 receives notification of the completion of torch electrode replenishment. Specifically, the reception unit 11 receives notification of the completion of torch electrode replenishment by detecting that the replenishment completion button 23 has been pressed by an operator. When the reception unit 11 receives notification of the completion of torch electrode replenishment, it notifies the door opening / closing control unit 14 accordingly.

[0030] As will be explained in more detail later, when the reception unit 11 receives notification that the torch electrode replenishment is complete, the door opening / closing control unit 14 closes the door that shields the storage area for the torch electrodes.

[0031] Furthermore, the reception unit 11 receives notifications to resume normal control of the welding equipment. Specifically, the reception unit 11 receives notifications to resume normal control of the welding equipment by detecting that the restart button 24 has been pressed by an operator. When the reception unit 11 receives a notification to resume normal control of the welding equipment, it notifies the welding equipment control unit 12 of this fact.

[0032] As will be explained in more detail later, when the reception unit 11 receives notification to resume normal control of the welding device, the welding device control unit 12 controls the welding device to enable the replacement of the torch electrode. In other words, when the reception unit 11 receives notification to resume normal control of the welding device, the welding device control unit 12 controls the welding device to replace the torch electrode as appropriate according to its wear.

[0033] The welding equipment control unit 12 controls the operation of the welding equipment. The welding equipment control unit 12 controls the operation of the welding equipment and performs welding work. Under normal control, the welding equipment control unit 12 controls the welding equipment so that the torch electrode is replaced as appropriate in accordance with the wear of the torch electrode.

[0034] The welding equipment control unit 12 receives notification from the reception unit 11 that a reservation for torch electrode replenishment has been received. When the reception unit 11 receives a reservation for torch electrode replenishment, the welding equipment control unit 12 controls the welding equipment so as not to perform the torch electrode replacement operation. When the welding equipment control unit 12 starts controlling the welding equipment to prevent the torch electrode replacement operation, it notifies the notification unit 13 and the opening / closing door control unit 14 of this fact.

[0035] Furthermore, when the welding equipment control unit 12 receives notification from the reception unit 11 to resume normal control of the welding equipment, it controls the welding equipment to enable the replacement of the torch electrode. In other words, when the welding equipment control unit 12 is notified that the torch electrode replenishment is complete, it resumes normal welding equipment control.

[0036] The notification unit 13 provides various notifications to the workers. Specifically, the notification unit 13 according to this embodiment is connected to a four-button device as shown in Figure 3. The notification unit 13 provides various notifications to the worker by appropriately illuminating the replenishment reservation light 25 and the replenishment available light 26. The notification unit 13 turns off the replenishment reservation light 25 and the replenishment available light 26 as appropriate in accordance with the progress of the replenishment process.

[0037] The notification unit 13 receives notification from the reception unit 11 that a reservation for torch electrode replenishment has been received. When the reception unit 11 has received a reservation for torch electrode replenishment, the notification unit 13 notifies the worker that the reservation has been received. More specifically, when the reception unit 11 has received a reservation for torch electrode replenishment, the notification unit 13 illuminates the replenishment reservation light 25.

[0038] The notification unit 13 receives notification from the welding equipment control unit 12 that it has started controlling the welding equipment to prevent the torch electrode replacement operation from being performed. The notification unit 13 notifies that the torch electrode can be replenished to the storage location when the welding device is controlled not to perform a torch electrode replacement operation. More specifically, the notification unit 13 illuminates the replenishment light 26 when the welding device is controlled not to perform a torch electrode replacement operation. With this configuration, the storage system 1 according to this embodiment can replenish torch electrodes while suppressing the occurrence of emergency shutdowns in the welding apparatus. As a result, the storage system according to this embodiment can improve the efficiency of welding operations.

[0039] The door opening / closing control unit 14 controls the opening / closing door that shields the storage area for the torch electrodes. More specifically, the door opening / closing control unit 14 controls the opening and closing of the door that shields the storage area for the torch electrodes. The door opening / closing control unit 14 may also control the opening and closing of the door by controlling the locking and unlocking of the door. In other words, the door opening / closing control unit 14 may only control the locking and unlocking of the door, allowing the worker to open and close the door.

[0040] The door opening / closing control unit 14 receives notification from the reception unit 11 that a reservation for torch electrode replenishment has been received. The door opening / closing control unit 14 also receives notification from the welding equipment control unit 12 that it has begun controlling the welding equipment to prevent the torch electrode replacement operation from being performed. When the reception unit 11 receives a request to open the door, the door opening / closing control unit 14 checks whether the welding apparatus is controlled not to perform the torch electrode replacement operation. If the welding apparatus is controlled not to perform the torch electrode replacement operation, the control unit 14 controls the door opening / closing to open it. With this configuration, the storage system 1 according to this embodiment can replenish torch electrodes while further suppressing the occurrence of emergency shutdowns in the welding apparatus. As a result, the storage system according to this embodiment can further improve the efficiency of welding operations.

[0041] The door opening / closing control unit 14 receives notification from the reception unit 11 that it has received notification that the torch electrode replenishment has been completed. When the reception unit 11 receives notification that the replenishment of torch electrodes is complete, the door control unit 14 closes the door that shields the storage area for the torch electrodes. With this configuration, the storage system 1 according to this embodiment can prevent workers from coming into contact with the stored torch electrodes at times other than when replenishing the torch electrodes, and can further suppress the occurrence of emergency stops in the welding equipment. As a result, the storage system according to this embodiment can further improve the efficiency of welding operations.

[0042] (Operation of the storage system) Next, the operation of the storage system, that is, the storage method according to the first embodiment, will be described in detail. Figure 4 is a flowchart showing the operation of the storage system according to the first embodiment. In the following explanation, Figures 1 to 3 will be referred to as appropriate.

[0043] In the processing procedure shown in Figure 4, the processor P functions as the reception unit 11, welding equipment control unit 12, notification unit 13, and door opening / closing control unit 14 by reading and executing a program from memory M.

[0044] In the vehicle control method according to this embodiment, first, the processor P accepts a replenishment reservation (step ST1). In other words, in step ST1, the processor P functions as a reception unit 11. In step ST1, the worker presses the replenishment reservation button 21 on the four-button 2. Upon detecting that the worker has pressed the replenishment reservation button 21 on the four-button 2, the processor P accepts the replenishment reservation. If the replenishment reservation is accepted, the processor P illuminates the replenishment reservation light 25.

[0045] Next, the processor P controls the welding apparatus so that it does not perform the torch electrode replacement operation (step ST2). In other words, in step ST2, the processor P functions as the welding apparatus control unit 12.

[0046] Next, processor P notifies that the torch electrodes can be replenished in the storage area (step ST3). In other words, in step ST3, processor P functions as a notification unit 13. Specifically, in step ST3, processor P illuminates the replenishable light 26.

[0047] Next, processor P receives a request to open the door that shields the storage area for the torch electrodes (step ST4). In other words, in step ST4, processor P functions as a reception unit 11. In step ST4, the worker, after confirming that the refillable light 26 is lit, presses the refill start button 22 on the four-point button 2. Upon detecting that the worker has pressed the refill start button 22 on the four-point button 2, the processor P accepts the request to open the door.

[0048] Next, processor P opens the door (step ST5). In other words, in step ST5, processor P functions as the door control unit 14. After step ST5 is completed, an operator replenishes the torch electrodes in the storage device by replacing the fixture stored in the storage area with a replacement fixture containing multiple torch electrodes.

[0049] Next, processor P receives notification that the torch electrode replenishment is complete (step ST6). In other words, in step ST6, processor P functions as a reception unit 11. In step ST6, the worker presses the replenishment complete button 23 of the four-button 2. Upon detecting that the worker has pressed the replenishment complete button 23 of the four-button 2, the processor P receives notification that the replenishment of the torch electrodes is complete.

[0050] Next, processor P closes the opening / closing door (step ST7). In other words, in step ST7, processor P functions as the opening / closing door control unit 14.

[0051] Next, processor P receives notification to resume normal control of the welding equipment (step ST8). In other words, in step ST8, processor P is functioning as reception unit 11. In step ST8, the worker presses the restart button 24 on the four-button 2. Upon detecting that the worker has pressed the restart button 24 on the four-button 2, the processor P receives a notification to resume normal control of the welding equipment.

[0052] Finally, the processor P controls the welding apparatus to enable the torch electrode replacement operation (step ST9), and the storage system according to this embodiment completes its series of operations. In other words, in step ST9, the processor P functions as the welding apparatus control unit 12. With this configuration, the storage system 1 according to this embodiment can prevent emergency shutdowns caused by workers replenishing torch electrodes. As a result, the storage system 1 according to this embodiment can improve the efficiency of welding operations.

[0053] As described above, the storage system 1 according to this embodiment controls the welding apparatus so as not to perform a torch electrode replacement operation when it receives a reservation for torch electrode replenishment. Furthermore, when the welding apparatus is controlled so as not to perform a torch electrode replacement operation, the storage system 1 according to this embodiment notifies that a torch electrode can be replenished to the storage location. With this configuration, the storage system 1 according to this embodiment can suppress the occurrence of emergency stoppages caused by workers. As a result, the storage system 1 according to this embodiment can improve the efficiency of welding operations.

[0054] Although the present invention has been described above in reference to the embodiments described above, the present invention is not limited to the configuration of the embodiments described above, and of course includes various modifications, alterations, and combinations that can be made by a person skilled in the art within the scope of the claims of the present patent application. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0055] 1. Storage System 11 Reception Department 12 Welding equipment control unit 13 Notification Department 14 Door Opening / Closing Control Unit 2. Four-button 21 Refill Reservation Button 22 Refill Start Button 23 Refill complete button 24. Restart button 25 Refill Reservation Light 26 Refillable Lights

Claims

1. The reception desk accepts reservations for torch electrode replenishment, A welding apparatus control unit controls the welding apparatus so as not to perform the torch electrode replacement operation when a reservation for replacement of the torch electrode is received, The welding apparatus is controlled not to perform the torch electrode replacement operation, and includes a notification unit that notifies that the torch electrode can be replenished to the storage position. Storage system.

2. The system further includes an opening / closing door control unit that controls the opening and closing door that shields the storage area of ​​the torch electrode, The door opening / closing control unit controls the door to open when the welding apparatus is controlled not to perform the torch electrode replacement operation. The storage system according to claim 1.

3. The replenishment of the torch electrodes is carried out by replacing the jig that houses the multiple torch electrodes in the storage area. The storage system according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The reception unit then receives a notification to resume normal control of the welding apparatus. When the reception unit receives notification to resume normal control of the welding apparatus, the welding apparatus control unit controls the welding apparatus so that the torch electrode replacement operation can be performed. The storage system according to claim 1 or 2.

5. We are now accepting reservations for torch electrode replacements. When a reservation for replacement of the torch electrode is received, the welding apparatus is controlled so that it does not perform the torch electrode replacement operation. If the welding apparatus is controlled not to perform the torch electrode replacement operation, the system will notify that the torch electrode can be replenished to the storage location. Storage method.

Images