MODEL GENERATION METHOD, DECISION METHOD, MACHINE TOOL SYSTEM, AND COMPUTER PROGRAM

Abstract

The model generation method includes having a processor acquire from a storage device first data representing a flange diameter, which is a radial length with respect to a central axis of a tool holder having a flange formed around a central axis and a holder body protruding from the flange in an axial direction along the central axis and capable of mounting a rotary tool, and a flange length, which is an axial length of the flange. The model generation method includes having the processor accept input from an operator of a shank diameter of the rotary tool and a body length, which is the axial length of the holder body, via an input interface. The model generation method includes having the processor acquire second data representing a body diameter corresponding to the acquired shank diameter from a storage device that stores a correspondence relationship between the shank diameter and the body diameter, which is the radial length of the holder body. The model generation method includes having the processor generate a shape model of the tool holder based on the acquired body length, the first data, and the second data.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a model generation method, a determination method, a machine tool system, and a computer program. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, machine tools have been known that have an interference check function to prevent components such as a tool, a table, a tool holder, and a workpiece from interfering with each other against the operator's intention (see, for example, Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Patent No. 7303405 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In the method related to Patent Document 1, it takes time and effort to create a holding unit model. For this reason, the burden on the operator to create a holding unit model can be reduced by having the machine tool manufacturer provide a model of the tool holder. However, in a machine tool (e.g., a machining center) that operates a rotating tool, various tool manufacturers supply tool holders, so it is difficult for the machine tool manufacturer to provide geometric models of all tool holders in advance. Therefore, in the case of a tool holder other than a model provided by the machine tool manufacturer, the burden of obtaining the geometric model of the tool holder from the tool manufacturer or the operator creating the geometric model of the tool holder is incurred.

[0005] The purpose of the technology disclosed in the present application is to provide a model generation method, a determination method, a machine tool system, and a computer program that can generate a shape model of a tool holder attached to a machine tool that operates a rotating tool more easily than conventional methods. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] A model generation method according to a first aspect of the present disclosure includes having a processor acquire first data representing a flange diameter, which is a radial length with respect to a central axis of a tool holder having a flange formed around a central axis and a holder body that protrudes from the flange in an axial direction along the central axis and is capable of mounting a rotary tool, and a flange length, which is an axial length of the flange, from a storage device. The model generation method includes having the processor accept inputs from an operator of a shank diameter of the rotary tool and a body length, which is the axial length of the holder body, via an input interface. The model generation method includes having the processor acquire second data representing a body diameter corresponding to the acquired shank diameter from a storage device that stores a correspondence relationship between the shank diameter and the body diameter, which is the radial length of the holder body. The model generation method includes having the processor generate a shape model of the tool holder based on the acquired body length, the first data, and the second data.

[0007] According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, in the model generation method according to the first aspect, having the processor accept input of the body length from the operator includes having the processor accept input of the total length of the holder, which is the body length plus the flange length, from the operator via the input interface, and having the processor determine the body length by subtracting the flange length from the total length of the holder.

[0008] According to a third aspect of the present disclosure, in the model generation method according to the first or second aspect, having the processor acquire the first data includes having the processor accept, via an input interface, an input from an operator of holder type information indicating a type of tool holder that can be attached to the machine tool, and having the processor acquire the first data based on the holder type information from a storage device that stores a correspondence between the holder type information and a flange diameter and a flange length corresponding to the holder type information.

[0009] According to a fourth aspect of the present disclosure, in the model generating method according to the third aspect, the tool holder has a holder shank axially opposite to the holder body with respect to the flange. The spindle of the machine tool has a receiving hole into which the holder shank can be inserted. Whether or not multiple tool holders can be attached to the machine tool is determined based on whether or not the receiving hole fits the holder shank.

[0010] According to a fifth aspect of the present disclosure, in the model generating method according to any one of the first to fourth aspects, the main body diameter is an outer diameter of a nut for fixing the rotating tool to the holder main body.

[0011] According to a sixth aspect of the present disclosure, in the model generating method according to the fifth aspect, the nut is configured to hold a collet into which a rotary tool having a shank diameter can be press-fitted.

[0012] According to a seventh aspect of the present disclosure, in the model generating method according to the sixth aspect, the outer diameter of the nut is determined based on the ISO15488 standard, with the dimension corresponding to the size of the collet that matches the shank diameter.

[0013] According to an eighth aspect of the present disclosure, the model generation method according to any one of the first to seventh aspects further includes causing the processor to generate a signal to a display to display the geometric model of the tool holder on the display. The model generation method further includes causing the processor to accept, via the input interface, an input from an operator of at least one correction value of the flange diameter, the flange length, the body diameter, and the body length. The model generation method further includes, when the at least one correction value is input, causing the processor to regenerate the geometric model of the tool holder based on the at least one correction value.

[0014] According to a ninth aspect of the present disclosure, the model generation method according to any one of the first to eighth aspects further includes having the processor receive, via the input interface, an input from an operator of a tool length offset, which is a protrusion length of the rotating tool from the nut. The model generation method further includes having the processor acquire, from a storage device, third data defining a shape of the rotating tool. The model generation method further includes having the processor generate a shape model of the rotating tool based on the tool length offset and the third data. The model generation method further includes having the processor generate an assembly model combining the shape model of the rotating tool and the shape model of the tool holder.

[0015] According to a tenth aspect of the present disclosure, the model generation method of the ninth aspect further includes causing a processor to generate a signal to a display to display the geometric model of the tool holder on the display. The model generation method further includes causing the processor to accept an input of at least one correction value of a flange diameter, a flange length, a body diameter, a body length, and a tool length offset via an input interface. The model generation method further includes causing the processor to regenerate an assembly model based on the at least one correction value when the at least one correction value is input.

[0016] A determination method according to an eleventh aspect of the present disclosure includes executing the model generation method according to the ninth or tenth aspect, and having a processor acquire from a storage device a shape model of an obstacle including a measuring device that measures a tool length offset. The determination method includes having a processor determine whether or not an assembly model and a shape model of an obstacle interfere with each other before the shape model of the rotating tool reaches a predetermined position of a measurement position when a rotating tool movement program for measuring the rotating tool with the measuring device is executed on a machine tool to which a rotating tool and a tool holder are attached. The predetermined position is preferably a position of the measuring device into which the rotating tool is inserted when measuring the rotating tool with the measuring device.

[0017] A determination method according to a twelfth aspect of the present disclosure includes executing any one of the model generation methods according to the ninth or tenth aspects and causing a processor to acquire a shape model of an obstacle from a storage device. The determination method includes causing the processor to determine whether or not an assembly model interferes with the shape model of the obstacle when a machining program for machining a workpiece by driving a spindle of a machine tool is executed.

[0018] A computer according to a thirteenth aspect of the present disclosure comprises a processor configured to execute any of the model generation methods of the first to tenth aspects, or the determination method of the eleventh or twelfth aspects, a storage device, and an input interface.

[0019] A machine tool system according to a fourteenth aspect of the present disclosure includes the computer according to the thirteenth aspect and a machine tool including a spindle to which a tool holder can be attached.

[0020] A computer program according to a fifteenth aspect of the present disclosure comprises instructions that, when executed by a computer including an input interface, cause the computer to execute any one of the model generation methods of the first to tenth aspects, or the determination method of the eleventh or twelfth aspects.

[0021] A computer-readable medium according to a sixteenth aspect of the present disclosure comprises instructions that, when executed by a computer including an input interface, cause the computer to perform any of the model generation methods of the first to tenth aspects, or the determination method of the eleventh or twelfth aspects.

[0022] In the model generating method according to the first aspect, the computer according to the thirteenth aspect including a hardware processor configured to execute the processing of the model generating method according to the first aspect, the machine tool system according to the fourteenth aspect including the computer, the computer program according to the fifteenth aspect including instructions for causing a computer to execute the model generating method according to the first aspect, and the computer-readable medium according to the sixteenth aspect including instructions for causing a computer to execute the model generating method according to the first aspect, the flange diameter and flange length of the flange of the tool holder are obtained from a storage device, and the body diameter of the holder body of the tool holder is automatically calculated from the shank diameter, which is one of the tool shapes of the rotating tool, which is input separately. Therefore, the operator inputs only the parameters related to the body length of the holder body to generate a model of the tool holder. Therefore, the tool holder model can be generated more easily than before.

[0023] The model generation method according to the second aspect, the computer according to the 13th aspect having a hardware processor configured to execute the processing of the model generation method according to the second aspect, the machine tool system of the 14th aspect having the computer, the computer program of the 15th aspect having instructions for causing a computer to execute the model generation method according to the second aspect, and the computer-readable medium of the 16th aspect having instructions for causing a computer to execute the model generation method according to the second aspect, can improve usability for the operator by using the overall holder length that the operator is familiar with as a parameter representing the shape of the tool holder.

[0024] In the model generation method according to the third aspect, the computer according to the thirteenth aspect having a hardware processor configured to execute processing of the model generation method according to the third aspect, the machine tool system of the fourteenth aspect having the computer, the computer program of the fifteenth aspect having instructions for causing a computer to execute the model generation method according to the third aspect, and the computer-readable medium of the sixteenth aspect having instructions for causing a computer to execute the model generation method according to the third aspect, by inputting holder type information, the flange diameter and flange length of the tool holder are set, thereby further improving usability for the operator.

[0025] In the model generation method of the fourth aspect, the computer of the thirteenth aspect having a hardware processor configured to execute processing of the model generation method of the fourth aspect, the machine tool system of the fourteenth aspect having the computer, the computer program of the fifteenth aspect having instructions for causing a computer to execute the model generation method of the fourth aspect, and the computer-readable medium of the sixteenth aspect having instructions for causing a computer to execute the model generation method of the fourth aspect, the shape of the holder is determined so that the receiving hole of the spindle fits the holder shank, so that the determined holder can be reliably attached to the spindle.

[0026] In the model generation method of the fifth aspect, the computer of the thirteenth aspect having a hardware processor configured to execute processing of the model generation method of the fifth aspect, the machine tool system of the fourteenth aspect having the computer, the computer program of the fifteenth aspect having instructions for causing a computer to execute the model generation method of the fifth aspect, and the computer-readable medium of the sixteenth aspect having instructions for causing a computer to execute the model generation method of the fifth aspect, the body diameter is calculated from the shank diameter by utilizing the correlation between the outer diameter of a nut for fixing a rotating tool to a holder body and the shank diameter, making it easy to calculate the body diameter.

[0027] In the model generation method according to the 6th aspect, the computer according to the 13th aspect having a hardware processor configured to execute the processing of the model generation method according to the 6th aspect, the machine tool system of the 14th aspect having the computer, the computer program of the 15th aspect having instructions for causing a computer to execute the model generation method according to the 6th aspect, and the computer-readable medium of the 16th aspect having instructions for causing a computer to execute the model generation method according to the 6th aspect, the rotating tool is press-fit by the collet, so that the rotating tool is securely fixed to the tool holder.

[0028] The model generation method according to the seventh aspect, the computer according to the thirteenth aspect having a hardware processor configured to execute the processing of the model generation method according to the seventh aspect, the machine tool system of the fourteenth aspect having the computer, the computer program of the fifteenth aspect having instructions for causing a computer to execute the model generation method according to the seventh aspect, and the computer-readable medium of the sixteenth aspect having instructions for causing a computer to execute the model generation method according to the seventh aspect can accommodate many tool holder shapes that are compatible with international standards because the correlation between the outer diameter of the nut and the shank diameter is determined based on the international standard.

[0029] In the model generating method according to the 8th aspect, the computer according to the 13th aspect having a hardware processor configured to execute the processing of the model generating method according to the 8th aspect, the machine tool system of the 14th aspect having the computer, the computer program of the 15th aspect having instructions for causing a computer to execute the model generating method according to the 8th aspect, and the computer readable medium of the 16th aspect having instructions for causing a computer to execute the model generating method according to the 8th aspect, each dimension of the tool holder can be displayed on the display and then modified, thereby further improving usability for the operator.

[0030] The model generation method of the 9th aspect, the computer of the 13th aspect having a hardware processor configured to execute the processing of the model generation method of the 9th aspect, the machine tool system of the 14th aspect having the computer, the computer program of the 15th aspect having instructions for causing a computer to execute the model generation method of the 9th aspect, and the computer-readable medium of the 16th aspect having instructions for causing a computer to execute the model generation method of the 9th aspect make it possible to generate an assembly model that combines a shape model of a rotating tool and a shape model of a tool holder, thereby making it possible to simulate detection of interference between the assembly model and a workpiece and instructions for tool protrusion.

[0031] In the model generating method according to the 10th aspect, the computer according to the 13th aspect having a hardware processor configured to execute the processing of the model generating method according to the 10th aspect, the machine tool system of the 14th aspect having the computer, the computer program of the 15th aspect having instructions for causing a computer to execute the model generating method according to the 10th aspect, and the computer readable medium of the 16th aspect having instructions for causing a computer to execute the model generating method according to the 10th aspect, the dimensions of the tool holder and the rotating tool can be displayed on the display and then modified, thereby further improving usability for the operator.

[0032] In the determination method according to the 11th aspect, the computer according to the 13th aspect having a hardware processor configured to execute the processing of the determination method according to the 11th aspect, the machine tool system according to the 14th aspect having the computer, the computer program according to the 15th aspect having instructions for causing the computer to execute the determination method according to the 11th aspect, and the computer-readable medium according to the 16th aspect having instructions for causing the computer to execute the determination method according to the 11th aspect, a path in which the rotating tool does not interfere with an obstacle can be set by simulation, so that the rotating tool can be moved at a high speed to a position as close as possible to the measuring device, and then inserted into the measuring device at a low approach speed. Alternatively, in the past, since the protrusion amount of the tool was not clear, it was necessary to move the tool to the tool measurement at a predetermined position from the machine origin as the starting point of the tool measurement in order to avoid interference between the tool and the measuring device. However, since the protrusion amount of the tool is clear from the protrusion instruction, it is possible to move the tool to the tool measurement at a predetermined position from the starting point of the tool measurement closer to the tool measuring device than the machine origin. As a result, the measurement time for tool measurement can be shortened.

[0033] The determination method according to the 12th aspect, the computer according to the 13th aspect having a hardware processor configured to execute the processing of the determination method according to the 12th aspect, the machine tool system according to the 14th aspect having the computer, the computer program according to the 15th aspect having instructions for causing a computer to execute the determination method according to the 12th aspect, and the computer-readable medium according to the 16th aspect having instructions for causing a computer to execute the determination method according to the 12th aspect, make it possible to simulate detection of interference between an assembly model and an obstacle. Also, the magnitude of the tool length offset to a degree that the tool holder does not interfere with the workpiece can be checked in advance by simulation. Effect of the Invention

[0034] According to the technology disclosed in the present application, it is possible to provide a model generation method, a determination method, a machine tool system, and a computer program that can generate a shape model of a tool holder that is attached to a machine tool that operates a rotating tool more easily than conventional methods. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0035] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the external configuration of a machine tool system according to an embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the configuration of an electronic circuit of the machine tool according to the embodiment. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is an enlarged perspective view showing the tool magazine and the tool changer. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view showing an outline of the machining head of the machine tool shown in FIG. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is an enlarged view of the tool holder and the rotating tool. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is an enlarged view of the collet and its periphery. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is an example of the flange definition data. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is an example of the holder body definition data. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is an example of an input interface of the tool interface. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 shows an example of an input interface for the shank diameter of a rotary tool. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 shows an example of an input interface for the body length of a tool holder. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 shows modified examples of the holder shape data. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 shows an example of the additional menu display. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 shows an example of a detailed shape input screen. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 shows a conceptual diagram of the movement of the rotating tool to the measuring device. [Figure 16]FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing the details of the operation of the model generation program. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing details of the operation of step S1. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing details of the operation of step S5. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0036] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS The present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the drawings showing embodiments thereof. In the drawings, the same reference numerals indicate corresponding or substantially identical components. <Embodiment> <Configuration of machine tool 1> FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an external configuration of a machine tool system 100 including a machine tool 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a configuration of an electronic circuit of the machine tool system 100 according to the embodiment. The machine tool system 100 includes the machine tool 1 and a computer 90 connected to the machine tool 1 via a network NW. The computer 90 may be a general-purpose computer including electronic circuits such as a hardware processor and a memory. The computer 90 is used to perform a simulation when a machining program is executed by the machine tool 1. The network NW may be a wired network such as an intranet or a wireless network such as a wireless LAN.

[0037] As shown in Fig. 1, the machine tool 1 includes a control panel 10, a machining table 11 that holds a workpiece W (see Fig. 3), a machining head 12 that is movable in the X, Y and Z directions relative to the workpiece W, a tool magazine 15, and a tool changer 16. The tool magazine 15 can store both a tool holder 17 that holds a rotating tool T1 and a tool holder 17 that holds another rotating tool T2. Although not shown in Fig. 1, the machine tool 1 may further include a cover that covers the above-mentioned components other than the control panel 10.

[0038] Referring to FIG. 2, the control panel 10 includes a numerical control device 2 for controlling the operation of the machine tool 1, an input device 10a such as a key, a button, a dial, or a touch panel for an operator to input machining conditions and the like in the machining control executed by the numerical control device 2, and a display 10b for displaying the machining conditions and the like to the operator. The numerical control device 2 has a hardware processor 3, a memory 4, a bus 5, an input / output interface 6, and a communication interface 7. The communication interface 7 is configured to communicate with a computer 90 via a network NW. The memory 4 stores a machining program 8 such as a cutting program, and tool data 9 representing the shapes and the like of a plurality of rotating tools T1. The memory 4 may be referred to as a storage device. The hardware processor 3 executes various programs. In the following embodiments, the hardware processor 3 may be simply referred to as a processor 3.

[0039] FIG. 3 is an enlarged perspective view showing the tool magazine 15 and the tool exchange device 16. The tool magazine 15 has a plurality of holding units 15a that hold a plurality of tool holders 17, and a holding unit moving device 15b that moves the plurality of holding units 15a along a peripheral orbit. The plurality of holding units 15a are each assigned a pocket number "PKNo." to distinguish them from one another. The rotating tools T1 held in each of the plurality of holding units 15a via the tool holders 17 are each assigned a T number "TNo.". The tool data 9 is stored in such a manner that the T number corresponding to the pocket number and the shape of the rotating tool T1 corresponding to the T number are associated with each other. The tool magazine 15 may have a holder removal device 15c that moves the tool holder 17 stored in the tool magazine 15 to a standby position PH accessible to the tool exchange device 16.

[0040] The tool exchange device 16 is configured to exchange tools between the tool magazine 15 and the spindle 12b. The tool exchange device 16 has a tool exchange arm 16a, an arm rotation device 16b that rotates the tool exchange arm 16a, and an arm movement device 16c that moves the tool exchange arm 16a linearly. The arm rotation device 16b rotates the tool exchange arm 16a around an arm rotation axis AX2. The arm movement device 16c moves the tool exchange arm 16a in a direction parallel to the arm rotation axis AX2 (first direction DR1 and second direction DR2 in FIG. 3; these will be described in detail later). The tool exchange device 16 has gripping units 16d and 16e that are configured similarly to a magic hand and can hold the tool holder 17 before and after tool exchange.

[0041] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view showing an overview of the machining head 12 of the machine tool 1 shown in FIG. 1. As shown in FIG. 4, the machining head 12 includes a hollow spindle frame 12a forming a housing, and a spindle 12b contained in the spindle frame 12a. The spindle frame 12a of the machining head 12 is attached to an XYZ driving mechanism 13 shown in FIG. 2 and is movable in three axial directions of X, Y, and Z. One end of the spindle 12b is connected to a rotary drive device 14 such as a motor and configured to rotate around a rotary axis AX1. The rotary drive device 14 includes a stator 14s fixed to the spindle frame 12a and a rotor 14r fixed to the spindle 12b. The XYZ driving mechanism 13 and the rotary drive device 14 are connected to the numerical control device 2 via an input / output interface 6.

[0042] A tool holder 17 is detachably attached to the lower end of the spindle 12b. FIG. 4 shows a rotating tool T1 according to an embodiment. The rotating tool T1 is a tool for cutting. The rotating tool T1 is held by a tool holder 17. A pull stud 18 is attached to the upper end of the tool holder 17. FIG. 5 is an enlarged view of the tool holder 17 and the rotating tool T1 excluding the pull stud 18. As shown in FIG. 5, the tool holder 17 includes a holder shank 17S, a flange 17F, a holder body 17MB, a collet 17C, and a nut 17N. The holder shank 17S has a substantially truncated cone shape that is a body of revolution around a central axis AX0. The central axis AX0 substantially coincides with the rotation axis AX1 when the tool holder 17 is attached to the spindle 12b. "Substantially coincides" means that deviation within the mounting error range of the tool holder 17 is allowed. Holder shank 17S may have a generally triangular pyramid shape like a CAPTO shank (CAPTO is a registered trademark). Holder shank 17S has a screw hole 17SH into which pull stud 18 is screwed, and pull stud 18 is connected to holder shank 17S by screwing a male threaded portion (not shown) of pull stud 18 into screw hole 17SH.

[0043] The flange 17F is formed around the central axis AX0. The flange 17F includes a seating surface 17BS that can come into contact with the spindle 12b. Depending on the type of tool holder 17, the seating surface 17BS may not come into contact with the spindle 12b as long as it faces the spindle 12b. The flange 17F has a flange length LF that is perpendicular to the seating surface 17BS and is a length in an axial direction DX along the central axis AX0. The flange 17F has a flange diameter DF that is a length in a radial direction DR (a radial direction DR perpendicular to the axial direction DX) relative to the central axis AX0. The flange 17F protrudes in the radial direction DR from the holder shank 17S and the holder body 17MB. The flange 17F has a groove portion 17G cut out in the radial direction DR.

[0044] The holder body 17MB protrudes from the flange 17F in the axial direction DX. The holder body 17MB has a body length LM, which is the length in the axial direction DX, and a body diameter DM, which is the length in the radial direction DR. The sum of the flange length LF and the body length LM is called the holder total length LH, and the body length LM may be obtained by subtracting the flange length LF from the holder total length LH. The holder shank 17S and the holder body 17MB are provided on opposite sides of the flange 17F in the axial direction DX. The rotating tool T1 can be attached to the holder body 17MB. Specifically, referring to FIG. 6, the holder body 17MB has a receiving hole 17MBH into which the collet 17C is inserted, and a male thread portion 17MS that can be engaged with the nut 17N.

[0045] FIG. 6 is an enlarged view of the collet 17C and its surroundings. The collet 17C is composed of a cylindrical inner surface 17CIS and a tapered sleeve 17CSV having a plurality of slits 17CSL. The nut 17N has a receiving hole 17NBH into which the collet 17C is inserted and a female thread portion 17FS that can be engaged with the male thread portion 17MS. The nut 17N is used to fix the rotating tool T1 to the holder body 17MB. Specifically, the nut 17N is configured to hold the collet 17C that can be press-fitted with the rotating tool T1. When the nut 17N with the collet 17C inserted is screwed into the holder body 17MB, the sleeve 17CSV is pressed against the wall of the receiving hole 17MBH in the axial direction DX, compressing the collet 17C, and firmly tightening the shank SHK of the rotating tool T1 inserted into the insertion hole (17CIH) defined by the inner surface 17CIS. In other words, the diameter DIS of the insertion hole 17CIH changes according to the degree of fastening of the collet 17C.

[0046] Referring to FIG. 5, the rotary tool T1 has a blade BR and a shank SHK that is inserted into the insertion hole 17CIH of the collet 17C on the opposite side of the blade BR. The blade BR has a tool diameter DT that is a diameter in the radial direction DR. The rotary tool T1 has a tool length offset LT that is a protruding length from the nut 17N. The shank SHK has a shank diameter DS that is a diameter in the radial direction DR. Since the variation range of the diameter DIS of the insertion hole 17CIH is limited, the collet 17C to be used is limited when the shank diameter DS is determined. ISO15488 specifies the shape of the nut 17N to be used, the shape of the receiving hole 17MBH of the holder body 17MB, and the shape of the male thread portion 17MS that correspond to the specifications of the collet 17C. Therefore, when the shank diameter DS is determined, the outer diameter DN of the nut 17N is roughly determined by the standard. In other words, the outer diameter DN of the nut 17N is determined based on the ISO15488 standard so as to correspond to the size of the collet 17C that is adapted to the shank diameter DS.

[0047] Returning to FIG. 4, the spindle 12b includes a collet chuck 19 that can be fitted with the pull stud 18, and a key 12K that can be fitted with the groove portion 17G. The collet chuck 19 can move in an axial direction DX along the rotation axis AX1 of the spindle 12b. When the holder body 17MB and the rotating tool T1 are attached to the spindle 12b, the spindle 12b has a receiving hole 18RS into which the holder shank 17S can be inserted so that the central axis AX0 in FIG. 5 coincides with the rotation axis AX1 in FIG. 4. The shape of the receiving hole 18RS is based on the tool interface supported by the machine tool 1 (spindle 12b). In other words, whether or not multiple tool holders 17 can be mounted on the machine tool 1 is determined based on whether or not the receiving hole 18RS fits the holder shank 17S. The tool interface defines the receiving hole 18RS, the holder shank 17S, the pull stud 18, and the collet chuck 19. That is, the tool interface corresponds to holder type information that indicates the type of tool holder 17 that can be attached to the machine tool 1. When the collet chuck 19 is shifted in a first direction DR1 from the pull stud 18 toward the rotating tool T1 in the axial direction DX, it opens in a radial direction with respect to the rotating axis AX1, and the pull stud 18 becomes detachable. When the collet chuck 19 is shifted in a second direction DR2 from the rotating tool T1 toward the pull stud 18 in the axial direction DX, it closes in a radial direction with respect to the rotating axis AX1, and the pull stud 18 is engaged with the collet chuck 19. The pull stud 18 is engaged with the collet chuck 19, whereby the tool holder 17 is fixed to the spindle 12b. At this time, the key 12K of the spindle 12b is engaged with the groove portion 17G of the tool holder 17, so that the rotation of the tool holder 17 with respect to the spindle 12b is restricted.

[0048] Referring to Figure 2, the computer 90 is used to execute, for example, a model generation program 81 that generates a three-dimensional shape model HM of the tool holder 17 and a three-dimensional shape model TM of the rotating tool T1, an interference judgment program 82 that determines whether or not an assembly model AM combining the three-dimensional shape model HM of the tool holder 17 and the three-dimensional shape model TM of the rotating tool T1 will interfere with the three-dimensional shape model of the workpiece W when the machine tool 1 is caused to execute the machining program 8 for machining the workpiece W, and a measurement feasibility judgment program 82a that determines whether or not the assembly model AM can be moved to a measuring device MD that measures the three-dimensional shape of the rotating tool T1.

[0049] The computer 90 includes an input device 91a, a display 91b, and a computer main body 92 having substantially the same functions as the input device 10a, the display 10b, and the numerical control device 2, respectively. The computer main body 92 includes a hardware processor 93, a memory 94, a system bus 95, an input / output interface 96, and a communication interface 97 having substantially the same functions as the hardware processor 3, the memory 4, the system bus 5, the input / output interface 6, and the communication interface 7, respectively. In the following embodiments, the hardware processor 93 may be simply referred to as a processor 93. The memory 4 and the memory 94 may each be referred to as a storage device. The memory 94 of the computer 90 is configured to store a model generation program 81, an interference determination program 82, a measurement feasibility determination program 82a, flange definition data 83, a holder body definition data 84, a holder shape data 85, a machining program 98, and tool data 99. The machining program 98 is equal to the machining program 8, and the tool data 99 is equal to the tool data 9. In the following embodiments, the tool data 99 may be referred to as third data defining the shape of the rotating tool T1.

[0050] <Generation of tool holder 17 model> Next, a specific operation of the model generation program 81 will be described. The processor 93 executing the model generation program 81 generates a three-dimensional shape model HM of the tool holder 17 and an assembly model AM that combines the three-dimensional shape model TM of the rotating tool T1 and the three-dimensional shape model HM of the tool holder 17, assuming that the body diameter DM of the holder body 17MB is equal to the outer diameter DN of the nut 17N or is a predetermined multiple of the outer diameter DN of the nut 17N. To achieve this, the memory 94 is configured to store flange definition data 83 that describes at least the first data representing the flange diameter DF and the flange length LF. Furthermore, the memory 94 is configured to store holder body definition data 84 that describes the correspondence between the shank diameter DS and the body diameter DM.

[0051] FIG. 7 is an example of the flange definition data 83. Referring to FIG. 7, the flange definition data 83 includes first data representing a tool interface supported by the machine tool 1 (spindle 12b), a flange diameter DF corresponding to the tool interface, and a flange length LF. That is, the flange definition data 83 represents a correspondence relationship between holder type information and the flange diameter DF and flange length LF corresponding to the holder type information. The flange definition data 83 in FIG. 7 shows a data configuration in the case where the model generation program 81 is designed for general use so that it can be commonly used in various machine tools 1. The machine tool 1 (spindle 12b) usually supports only one tool interface. For this reason, in the case where the model generation program 81 is designed to be customized for each machine tool 1, the first data may be composed of only the flange diameter DF and the flange length LF.

[0052] FIG. 8 is an example of the holder body definition data 84. As shown in FIG. 8, the holder body definition data 84 describes the correspondence relationship between the range of shank diameters DS shown in the left column and the values ​​of the body diameters DM shown in the right column. In FIG. 8, for reference, the nominal diameters of the collets 17C corresponding to the range of shank diameters DS shown in the left column are shown in the center column. The ISO15488 standard is set so that even a collet 17C with a large nominal diameter can hold a holder shank 17S with a small shank diameter DS. However, in the example of FIG. 8, the nominal diameter of the collet 17C that can be used is set for a range of variation smaller than the range of variation of the diameter DIS of the insertion hole 17CIH specified in the ISO15488 standard.

[0053] The nominal diameter of the collet 17C corresponding to the range of the shank diameter DS is separately disclosed to the operator of the machine tool 1. The body diameter DM shown in the right column is described in ISO15488 as the body diameter DM using the outer diameter DN of the nut 17N corresponding to the nominal diameter of the collet 17C in the center column as a model, but a customized value may be set according to the product status of the tool holder 17 on the market. Alternatively, if it is empirically known that the converted value obtained by multiplying the outer diameter DN of the nut 17N specified in ISO15488 by a predetermined magnification factor is shorter than the body diameter DM of the tool holder on the market, the above converted value may be set as the body diameter DM shown in the right column. The holder shape data 85 stores parameters of the three-dimensional shape model HM of the tool holder 17 once generated by the model generation program 81. Details of the holder shape data 85 will be described later.

[0054] When the model generation program 81 is designed to be versatile so that it can be commonly used in various machine tools 1, the processor 93 executing the model generation program 81 accepts the input of the tool interface supported by the spindle 12b, that is, the holder type information, from the operator via the input interface. FIG. 9 shows an example of a tool interface setting window 25 for accepting the input of the tool interface supported by the spindle 12b from the operator. The tool interface setting window 25 includes a drop-down window 26. FIG. 9 shows an example in which the tool interface of M40 is selected by a well-known method such as clicking the mouse or touching the touch panel. In FIG. 9, the row SR corresponding to the selected M40 is shown highlighted. The remaining rows are displayed as rows USR without highlighting. A graphical user interface (GUI) that accepts this selection input using the input device 91a corresponds to the input interface. The tool interface setting window 25 may be selectable by other well-known GUIs such as check boxes, radio buttons, and drop-down windows instead of the above selection format. Thereafter, the processor 93 executing the model generation program 81 acquires first data indicating the flange diameter DF and flange length LF corresponding to the input tool interface from the memory 94 (flange definition data 83). That is, the processor 93 executing the model generation program 81 acquires the first data from the memory 94 based on the holder type information. When the model generation program 81 is customized and designed for each machine tool 1, the GUI display as shown in FIG. 9 and the process of selecting one piece of first data from the flange definition data 83 that defines a plurality of tool interfaces are omitted.

[0055] Next, the processor 93 executing the model generation program 81 accepts an input of the shank diameter DS from an operator via an input interface. FIG. 10 shows an example of an input interface for the shank diameter DS of the rotating tool T1. FIG. 10 shows a tool display window 30 in which information such as the shape of each rotating tool T1 stored in the tool data 99 is displayed in a selectable list format. The tool display window 30 includes a drop-down window 35, and the items in the drop-down window 35 are, from the left, a T number 31, a pocket number 32, a tool name 33, and a nominal diameter 34 of the tool. The tool display window 30 may display information other than these pieces of information, and at least one of the T number 31 and the pocket number 32 may be omitted.

[0056] Fig. 10 shows an example in which a tool with T number 4 has been selected by a well-known method such as clicking a mouse or touching a touch panel. In Fig. 10, the row SR corresponding to the selected rotating tool T2 is shown highlighted. The remaining rows are displayed as unhighlighted rows USR. A GUI that accepts this selection input using the input device 91a corresponds to the input interface. The tool display window 30 may not be in this selection format, but may instead be selectable using other well-known GUIs such as check boxes, radio buttons, drop-down windows, etc.

[0057] The processor 93 executing the model generation program 81 acquires the shank diameter DS corresponding to the tool name 33 selected in the tool display window 30 and the nominal diameter 34 of the tool from the tool data 99. Furthermore, the processor 93 executing the model generation program 81 acquires second data indicating the body diameter DM corresponding to the acquired shank diameter DS from the memory 94 storing the holder body definition data 84. Furthermore, the processor 93 executing the model generation program 81 acquires from the memory 94 the tool diameter DT and cutting edge angle (at least a part of the third data) corresponding to the tool name 33 selected in the tool display window 30 and the nominal diameter 34 of the tool.

[0058] Next, the processor 93 executing the model generation program 81 accepts an input of the body length LM from an operator via an input interface. Fig. 11 shows an example of an input interface for the body length LM of the tool holder 17. Fig. 11 shows a dimension input window 40, which is a part of the input interface. The dimension input window 40 includes a first text box 41 for inputting the tool length offset LT, a movement amount text box 41a for adjusting the upper limit of the numerical value of the first text box 41, a first additional text box 41b for inputting the shape characteristics of the tool other than the tool length offset LT, a second text box 42 for inputting the holder overall length LH, a third text box 43 for displaying / editing the name of the tool holder 17, an OK button 44, a cancel button 45, and a model display screen 51.

[0059] The first text box 41 for inputting the tool length offset LT, the travel text box 41a, the first additional text box 41b for displaying the shape characteristics of the tool other than the tool length offset LT, and the second text box 42 for inputting the overall holder length LH are text boxes in which a numerical value can be input. When the up or down arrow button is touched or clicked while the first text box 41 is selected, the numerical value displayed in the first text box 41 is increased or decreased by the numerical value in the travel text box 41a. The numerical value in the first text box 41 can also be changed by directly inputting a numerical value. When the tool name 33 is selected, the first additional text box 41b displays parameters representing the unique shape of the tool name 33 obtained from the tool data 99. The numerical values ​​displayed in the first additional text box 41b are usually displayed in an unchangeable form, but may be edited by the operator for convenience in generating the three-dimensional shape model TM of the rotating tool T1. However, even if the numerical value is edited in this way, the tool data 99 is not modified.

[0060] The processor 93 executing the model generation program 81 accepts an input of the total holder length LH, which is the sum of the main body length LM and the flange length LF, from the operator via an input interface. The interface that accepts a numerical input in the second text box 42 using the input device 91a corresponds to this input interface. The processor 93 obtains the main body length LM by subtracting the flange length LF from the total holder length LH. Furthermore, the processor 93 executing the model generation program 81 accepts an input of the tool length offset LT from the operator via the input interface. The interface that accepts a numerical input in the first text box 41 using the input device 91a corresponds to this input interface.

[0061] When a numerical value is input in the second text box 42, the processor 93 executing the model generation program 81 sets the numerical value as the holder overall length LH, obtains the body length LM from the flange length LF and flange diameter DF in the flange definition data 83 and the holder overall length, and searches whether or not a three-dimensional shape model HM of the tool holder 17 having the body diameter DM obtained from the shank diameter DS and the obtained body length LM is stored in the holder shape data 85. When the three-dimensional shape model HM of the tool holder 17 is stored in the holder shape data 85, the processor 93 executing the model generation program 81 acquires the stored three-dimensional shape model HM. When the three-dimensional shape model HM is not stored in the holder shape data 85, the processor 93 executing the model generation program 81 generates the three-dimensional shape model HM of the tool holder 17 based on the obtained body length LM, body diameter DM, flange length LF, and flange diameter DF. When a three-dimensional shape model HM that is not stored in the holder shape data 85 is generated, the processor 93 executing the model generation program 81 appropriately generates a holder name of the tool holder 17 to be displayed in a third text box 43 described later, and stores the generated three-dimensional shape model HM together with the holder name in the holder shape data 85. When a numerical value is input in the first text box 41, the processor 93 executing the model generation program 81 uses the numerical value as the tool length offset LT and generates a three-dimensional shape model TM of the rotating tool T1 based on the tool length offset LT and the previously obtained tool diameter DT and cutting edge angle (at least a part of the third data). Note that the tool data 99 may include a recommended protrusion amount, and in that case, the recommended protrusion amount may be input as a default value of the numerical value in the first text box 41. The processor 93 executing the model generation program 81 generates an assembly model AM by combining the three-dimensional shape model TM of the rotating tool T1 and the three-dimensional shape model HM of the tool holder 17.

[0062] Specifically, the three-dimensional shape model TM of the rotating tool T1 is composed of a first cylinder CC1 having a diameter equal to the tool diameter DT and a tool length offset LT. The three-dimensional shape model HM of the tool holder 17 is composed of a second cylinder CC2 having a diameter equal to the body diameter DM and a height equal to the body length LM, and a third cylinder CC3 having a diameter equal to the flange diameter DF and a height equal to the flange length LF. The processor 93 executing the model generation program 81 displays the assembly model AM thus generated on the model display screen 51. That is, the processor 93 executing the model generation program 81 generates a signal to the display 91b so as to display the three-dimensional shape model HM of the tool holder 17 on the display 91b. The processor 93 executing the model generation program 81 generates a signal to the display 91b so as to display the three-dimensional shape model TM of the rotating tool T1 on the display 91b. The processor 93 executing the model generation program 81 generates a signal to the display 91b so as to display the assembly model AM on the display 91b.

[0063] When a numerical value is entered in the second text box 42, the processor 93 executing the model generating program 81 displays, in the third text box 43, the holder name of the three-dimensional shape model HM of the tool holder 17 displayed on the display 91b, among the holder names of the tool holder 17 stored in the holder shape data 85. Note that the third text box 43 may be omitted.

[0064] FIG. 12 shows an example of the holder shape data 85. The holder shape data 85 includes the holder name of the tool holder 17, the manufacturer name of the tool holder 17, the tool interface, the flange diameter DF, the flange length LF, the main body diameter DM, and the main body length LM. The holder shape data 85 further includes the holder name of the tool holder 17, the extended holder diameters d2, D3, and d3, the extended holder length L3, the first R dimension R1, and the second R dimension R2. The holder name may be a model number by the manufacturer, or may be a name appropriately assigned by the operator. The manufacturer name can be set by an interface (fourth text box 53 in FIG. 14) shown later. The extended holder diameters d2, D3, and d3, the extended holder length L3, the first R dimension R1, and the second R dimension R2 correspond to the lengths of the parts shown on the input instruction screen 52 in FIG. 14 described later. 12, multiple tool holders 17 related to different tool interfaces are displayed, but this is an example of the case where the model generation program 81 is designed to be generic so as to be commonly usable in a variety of machine tools 1, and in the case where the model generation program 81 is customized and designed for each machine tool 1, the holder shape data 85 does not need to include elements of the tool interface, and may include only multiple tool holders 17 having tool interfaces supported by the machine tool 1. Note that part of the holder shape data 85 may be created and provided in advance by a provider of the model generation program 81, the interference determination program 82, and the measurement feasibility determination program 82a.

[0065] Returning to FIG. 11, the dimension input window 40 further has a detail setting button 46. When an operator wants to build a model more detailed than the assembly model AM, he or she can press the detail setting button 46 to display an additional menu. Referring to FIG. 13, the dimension input window 40A including the additional menu includes a tool holder selection window 47, an OK button 48, and an edit button 49 in addition to the contents displayed in the dimension input window 40. In the dimension input window 40A, the arrowhead of the detail setting button 46A is displayed in the opposite direction to that of the detail setting button 46 in the dimension input window 40. When the detail setting button 46A is clicked, the display returns to the dimension input window 40 in FIG. 9.

[0066] The tool holder selection window 47 displays at least one tool holder 17 having a set body diameter DM, body length LM, flange diameter DF, and flange length LF in a selectable manner. At least one tool holder 17 is displayed in a list format in the tool holder selection window 47, and when one of the at least one tool holder 17 is selected by a known method such as touching or clicking, it is highlighted. When the OK button 48 is pressed, a check mark CHK is displayed on the selected tool holder. The holder name of the selected tool holder 17 is displayed in the third text box 43. The tool holder selection window 47 does not display exactly the same shape as the tool holder 17 having the set body diameter DM, body length LM, flange diameter DF, and flange length LF, and 3D data received from the manufacturer of the tool holder 17 may be displayed. The body diameter DM, body length LM, flange length LF, and flange diameter DF of the tool holder 17 displayed as different shapes are stored as the set body diameter DM, body length LM, flange diameter DF, and flange length LF as the holder shape data 85. Therefore, an interference determination program 82 and a measurement feasibility determination program 82a, which will be described later, are executed using an assembly model AM having exactly the same shape as the tool holder 17 displayed on the model display screen 51.

[0067] When the edit button 49 is pressed, the processor 93 executing the model generating program 81 displays a detailed shape input screen 50. Referring to FIG. 14, the detailed shape input screen 50 includes an input instruction screen 52, a fourth text box 53, a fifth text box 54, an OK button 55, a cancel button 56, and sixth to fifteenth text boxes 60 to 69. The input instruction screen 52 allows input of which part of the tool holder 17 corresponds to the length of the indicator shown on the left side of each of the sixth to fifteenth text boxes 60 to 69. That is, as shown in the input instruction screen 52, the three-dimensional shape of the tool holder 17 modeled as a combination of two truncated cones can be set via the detailed shape input screen 50.

[0068] The fifth text box 54 is a GUI that accepts input of the holder name of the tool holder 17. The fourth text box 53 is a GUI that accepts input of the manufacturer name of the tool holder 17. The fourth text box 53 and the fifth text box 54 are initially displayed blank. The sixth text box 60 is a GUI that accepts input of the flange diameter DF, and the set flange diameter DF value is displayed as an initial value. The seventh text box 61 is a GUI that accepts input of the flange length LF, and the set flange length LF value is displayed as an initial value. The eighth text box 62 is a GUI that accepts input of the main body diameter DM, and the set main body diameter DM value is displayed as an initial value. The ninth text box 63 is a GUI that accepts input of the main body length LM, and the set main body length LM value is displayed as an initial value. The tenth to fifteenth text boxes 64 to 69 are set with 0 as an initial value. In addition, when the number in the seventh text box 61, the number in the ninth text box 63, or the number in the thirteenth text box 67 is corrected, the numbers in the remaining text boxes are corrected so that the sum of these numbers becomes the number in the second text box 42.

[0069] The processor 93 executing the model generation program 81 accepts input of at least one correction value of the flange diameter DF (D1 in FIG. 14), the flange length LF (L1 in FIG. 14), the main body diameter DM (D2 in FIG. 14), and the main body length LM (L2 in FIG. 14) via an input interface. A GUI that accepts numerical value inputs in the sixth to ninth text boxes 60 to 63 using the input device 91a corresponds to this input interface. When the OK button 55 is pressed with the manufacturer name of the tool holder 17 entered in the fourth text box 53, the holder name of the tool holder 17 entered in the fifth text box 54, and the corresponding numerical values ​​entered in the sixth to fifteenth text boxes 60 to 69, the processor 93 executing the model generation program 81 newly registers a data set of the tool holder 17 having the holder name displayed in the fifth text box 54, the manufacturer name of the tool holder 17 displayed in the fourth text box 53, the main body diameter DM (D2), the main body length LM (L2), the flange diameter DF (D1), the flange length LF (L1), the extended holder diameters d2, D3, d3, the extended holder length L3, the first R dimension R1, and the second R dimension R2 in the holder shape data 85, and closes the detailed shape input screen 50. An example of the holder shape data 85 newly registered in this way is displayed in the bottom row of FIG. In this case, the tool interface supported by the machine tool 1 (for example, an interface selected by a GUI such as that shown in FIG. 9) is automatically inserted as the tool interface. When the cancel button 56 is pressed, the processor 93 executing the model generation program 81 closes the detailed shape input screen 50 without registering the data set on the detailed shape input screen 50 in the holder shape data 85.

[0070] When the detailed shape input screen 50 is closed, the processor 93 executing the model generation program 81 adds the information of the tool holder 17 newly registered in the holder shape data 85 to the tool holder selection window 47. If the information is selected and the OK button 48 is pressed, the processor 93 executing the model generation program 81 generates a three-dimensional shape model HM of the tool holder 17 on the model display screen 51 based on the numerical values ​​input in the sixth to fifteenth text boxes 60 to 69, and regenerates the assembly model AM. That is, when at least one correction value is input, the processor 93 executing the model generation program 81 regenerates the three-dimensional shape model HM of the tool holder 17 based on the at least one correction value. The regenerated three-dimensional shape model HM of the tool holder 17 is displayed on the model display screen 51. Then, the processor 93 executing the model generation program 81 updates the third text box 43 to the name set in the fifth text box 54.

[0071] In this way, when the assembly model AM is displayed on the model display screen 51, the assembly model AM is regenerated by correcting the values ​​in the first text box 41 and the second text box 42, or correcting the values ​​in the sixth to fifteenth text boxes 60 to 69, pressing the OK button 55, selecting the corrected tool holder 17 in the tool holder selection window 47, and pressing the OK button 48. Therefore, the processor 93 executing the model generation program 81 accepts the input of at least one correction value of the flange diameter DF, the flange length LF, the main body diameter DM, the main body length LM, and the tool length offset LT via the above-mentioned input interface. Then, when at least one correction value is input, the processor 93 executing the model generation program 81 regenerates the assembly model AM based on at least one correction value. After the above process is completed, when the OK button 44 is pressed, the processor 93 executes the following interference determination program 82 and measurement feasibility determination program 82a based on the assembly model AM displayed on the model display screen 51 at that time. When the cancel button 45 is pressed, the processor 93 ends the model generation program 81 without setting the assembly model AM.

[0072] <Operations of the interference determination program 82 and the measurement feasibility determination program 82a> Next, the operation of the interference determination program 82 and the measurement feasibility determination program 82a in FIG. 2 will be described. The processor 93 executing the interference determination program 82 acquires a shape model of an obstacle from the memory 94. That is, the memory 94 stores the shape model of the obstacle together with the interference determination program 82. The obstacle refers to an object other than the workpiece W placed on the machining table 11, such as a jig for fixing the workpiece W to the machining table 11. In addition, when the workpiece W contacts the tool holder 17 or the spindle 12b, the workpiece W can also be an obstacle. The processor 93 executing the interference determination program 82 determines whether or not the assembly model AM interferes with the shape model of the obstacle when the machining program 98 for machining the workpiece W by driving the spindle 12b is executed by the machine tool 1. For example, the interference determination program 82 calculates the positions of the assembly model AM and the shape model of the obstacle at each time when the machining program 98 is executed, and determines whether or not the assembly model AM interferes with the shape model of the obstacle at each time. Here, interference means contact between the assembly model AM and the shape model of an obstacle other than contact between the rotating tool T1 and the workpiece W. For example, interference also occurs when the tool length offset LT is too short and the tool holder 17 comes into contact with the workpiece W. The interference determination program 82 makes it possible to simulate in advance whether there will be interference with an obstacle when the machine tool 1 executes the machining program 98, and to check in advance by simulation the size of the tool length offset LT that will prevent the tool holder 17 from interfering with the workpiece W.

[0073] The processor 93 executing the measurement feasibility determination program 82a acquires from the memory 94 a shape model of the obstacle including the measuring device MD that stores the tool length offset LT. The processor 93 executing the measurement feasibility determination program 82a determines whether or not the shape model of the assembly model AM and the shape model of the obstacle interfere with each other before the shape model of the rotating tool T1 reaches a predetermined position of the measuring device MD when executing a moving program of the rotating tool T1 for making the measuring device MD measure the rotating tool T1. For this reason, the memory 94 stores the moving program and the shape model of the obstacle together with the measurement feasibility determination program 82a. The predetermined position is, for example, the position of the measuring device MD where the rotating tool T1 is inserted when the measuring device MD measures the rotating tool T1. The obstacle refers to, for example, an object other than a part provided at a predetermined position of the measuring device MD. For example, the measurement feasibility determination program 82a calculates the positions of the assembly model AM and the shape model of the obstacle at each time when the moving program is executed, and determines whether or not the assembly model AM interferes with the shape model of the obstacle at each time. Here, interference means contact between the assembly model AM and an obstacle other than contact between the rotating tool T1 and a portion of the measuring device MD provided at a predetermined position.

[0074] FIG. 15 shows a conceptual diagram of the movement of the rotating tool T1 to the measuring device MD. As shown in FIG. 15, the rotating tool T1 is moved from the machine origin to a predetermined position of the measuring device MD. At that time, the rotating tool T1 is moved at high speed to an approach position near the measuring device MD, and then moved at low speed from the approach position. However, if the information on obstacles on the way is unknown, for safety reasons, it is necessary to set the approach position at a distant position, or to have the operator move the rotating tool T1 from the machine origin to the approach position at a medium to low speed while looking inside the machine, which is a problem in that the measurement time is long. However, if the movement of the rotating tool T1 is simulated in advance by the measurement feasibility determination program 82a, it is possible to set the approach position very close to the measuring device MD, or to increase the moving speed from the machine origin to the approach position. Therefore, an effect of shortening the measurement time is achieved.

[0075] Next, the operation of the model generation program 81 in Fig. 2 will be described in detail. Fig. 16 is a flowchart showing the operation of the model generation program 81 in detail. The model generation program 81, when executed by the processor 93 of the computer 90, comprises instructions for causing the processor 93 to execute the processing of a model generation method shown in Fig. 16 and Figs. 17 to 18 accompanying Fig. 16. Referring to Fig. 16, in step S1 of the model generation method, the processor 93 executing the model generation program 81 acquires first data indicating the flange diameter DF and the flange length LF from the memory 94 (storage device).

[0076] FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing the details of the operation of step S1. The process of FIG. 17 is an example of a process in the case where the model generation program 81 is designed to be versatile so that it can be commonly used in various machine tools 1. Referring to FIG. 17, in step S11, the processor 93 executing the model generation program 81 accepts an input of the holder type information (tool interface) from an operator via an input interface (for example, a GUI that accepts a selection input of the tool interface using the input device 91a in the tool interface setting window 25). In step S12, the processor 93 executing the model generation program 81 acquires the first data based on the holder type information (tool interface) from a memory 94 (storage device) that stores a correspondence relationship that associates the holder type information (tool interface) with the flange diameter DF and flange length LF corresponding to the holder type information (tool interface). Note that, in the case where the model generation program 81 is customized and designed for each machine tool 1, it is preferable to acquire the first data representing the flange diameter DF and flange length LF defined by the tool interface supported by the machine tool 1 (spindle 12b) from the memory 94 (storage device).

[0077] 16 again, in step S2 of the model generating method, the processor 93 executing the model generating program 81 receives an input of the shank diameter DS from the operator via an input interface (a GUI that receives a selection input of the tool display window 30 using the input device 91a). In step S3 of the model generating method, the processor 93 executing the model generating program 81 obtains second data representing the body diameter DM corresponding to the obtained shank diameter DS from the memory 94 (storage device) that stores the holder body definition data 84. In step S4 of the model generating method, the processor 93 executing the model generating program 81 obtains third data defining the shape of the rotating tool T1 from the memory 94 (storage device) that stores the tool data 99. In step S5 of the model generating method, the processor 93 executing the model generating program 81 receives an input of the body length LM from the operator via an input interface (a GUI that receives a numerical input of the dimension input window 40 using the input device 91a).

[0078] Fig. 18 is a flowchart showing the details of the operation of step S5. Referring to Fig. 18, in step S51, the processor 93 executing the model generation program 81 accepts an input of the holder overall length LH from the operator via an input interface (a GUI that accepts a numerical input in the second text box 42 using the input device 91a). In step S52, the processor 93 executing the model generation program 81 obtains the main body length LM by subtracting the flange length LF from the holder overall length LH.

[0079] 16 again, in step S6 of the model generation method, the processor 93 executing the model generation program 81 generates a three-dimensional shape model HM of the tool holder 17 based on the body length LM acquired in step S5, the first data acquired in step S1, and the second data acquired in step S3. In step S7 of the model generation method, the processor 93 executing the model generation program 81 accepts an input of the tool length offset LT from an operator via an input interface (a GUI that accepts a numerical input of the first text box 41 using the input device 91a). Note that, if the tool data 99 includes a recommended overhang amount and the tool length offset LT is automatically set to the recommended overhang amount, step S7 may be omitted. In step S8 of the model generation method, the processor 93 executing the model generation program 81 generates a three-dimensional shape model TM of the rotating tool T1 based on the determined tool length offset LT and the third data determined in step S4.

[0080] In step S9 of the model generation method, the processor 93 executing the model generation program 81 generates an assembly model AM by combining the three-dimensional shape model TM of the rotating tool and the three-dimensional shape model HM of the tool holder 17. In step S10 of the model generation method, the processor 93 executing the model generation program 81 generates a signal to the display 91b to display the assembly model AM (the three-dimensional shape model HM of the tool holder 17) on the display 91b. In step S11 of the model generation method, the processor 93 executing the model generation program 81 accepts input of at least one correction value of the flange diameter DF, the flange length LF, the main body diameter DM, the main body length LM, and the tool length offset LT via the input interface (GUI that accepts numerical input of the dimension input window 40 using the input device 91a). When there is no input (No in step S11), step S11 is repeated. When at least one correction value has been input (Yes in step S11), in step S12 of the model generating method, the processor 93 executing the model generating program 81 regenerates the assembly model AM based on the at least one correction value. After step S12 is completed, the process returns to step S10. <Characteristics and Effects of the Model Generation Method in the Present Embodiment> The model generation method, the model generation program 81, and the computer 90 executing the model generation program 81 according to this embodiment receive an operator's input of a shank diameter DS of the rotating tool T1, and cause a processor 93 to obtain second data representing a body diameter DM corresponding to the obtained shank diameter DS from a memory 94 storing holder body definition data 84 describing the correspondence between the shank diameter DS of the rotating tool T1 and the body diameter DM of the holder body 17MB, and use the second data to create a three-dimensional shape model HM of the tool holder 17. Therefore, the model generation method, the model generation program 81, and the computer 90 executing the model generation program 81 can generate a shape model of the tool holder 17 more easily than in the past. <Modification> In the above-described embodiment, GUIs such as the tool display window 30 and the dimension input window 40 are shown as examples of input interfaces, but a different interface such as a character user interface (CUI) for setting by commands may also be used.

[0081] In the above embodiment, an example is shown in which the machine tool 1 is a vertical machining center, but the contents of this embodiment are also applicable to machine tools in which the machine tool 1 is a horizontal machining center, a lathe, or an additive manufacturing device.

[0082] A dedicated processor or integrated circuit may be used to realize some or all of the logic functions of the model generation program 81, the interference determination program 82, and the measurement feasibility determination program 82a of the computer 90. The model generation program 81, the interference determination program 82, and the measurement feasibility determination program 82a described above may be stored not only in the memory 94 built into the computer 90 but also in a storage medium that is removable from the computer 90 and readable by the computer 90, such as a floppy disk, an optical disk, a CD-ROM or a magnetic disk, an SD card, a USB memory, or an external hard disk.

[0083] In this application, the term "comprises" and its derivatives are open-ended terms that describe the presence of elements and do not exclude the presence of other elements not listed. This also applies to the terms "have", "include" and their derivatives.

[0084] The terms "member," "part," "element," "body," and "structure" may have multiple meanings, such as a single part or multiple parts.

[0085] Ordinal numbers such as "first" and "second" are merely terms used to identify components and do not have any other meaning (such as a particular order). For example, the presence of a "first element" does not imply the presence of a "second element," and the presence of a "second element" does not imply the presence of a "first element."

[0086] Words expressing degree, such as "substantially," "about," and "approximately," may mean a reasonable deviation that does not significantly change the final result, unless otherwise specified in the embodiment. All numerical values ​​described in this application may be interpreted to include words such as "substantially," "about," and "approximately."

[0087] In this application, the phrase "at least one of A and B" should be interpreted as including A only, B only, and both A and B.

[0088] It is apparent that various changes and modifications of the present invention are possible in light of the above disclosure, and therefore, the present invention may be practiced otherwise than as specifically disclosed herein without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. a processor is caused to acquire, from a storage device, first data representing a flange diameter, which is a radial length with respect to a central axis of a tool holder having a flange formed around a central axis and a holder body protruding from the flange in an axial direction along the central axis and capable of mounting a rotary tool, and a flange length, which is a length of the flange in the axial direction; receiving an input from an operator of a shank diameter of the rotary tool and a body length, which is a length of the holder body in the axial direction, through an input interface into the processor; The processor is caused to acquire second data representing the body diameter corresponding to the acquired shank diameter from the storage device that stores a correspondence relationship between the shank diameter and a body diameter that is a length in the radial direction of the holder body; a model generating method including causing the processor to generate a geometric model of the tool holder based on the acquired body length, the first data, and the second data.

2. Having the processor receive input of the body length from an operator includes: receiving an input of a total holder length, which is the sum of the body length and the flange length, from an operator via the input interface into the processor; having the processor determine the body length by subtracting the flange length from the holder overall length; The method of claim 1 , further comprising:

3. Having the processor obtain the first data includes: causing the processor to receive, via the input interface, an input from an operator of holder type information indicating a type of tool holder that can be attached to a machine tool; The processor acquires the first data based on the holder type information from the storage device that stores a correspondence relationship between the holder type information and the flange diameter and the flange length corresponding to the holder type information. Including, The method of claim 1 .

4. the tool holder has a holder shank on the axially opposite side of the holder body relative to the flange; the spindle of the machine tool has a receiving hole into which the holder shank can be inserted, Whether the tool holder can be attached to the machine tool is determined based on whether the receiving hole fits the holder shank. The method of claim 3 .

5. The model generating method according to claim 1 , wherein the body diameter is equal to an outer diameter of a nut for fixing the rotary tool to the holder body.

6. The nut is configured to hold a collet that can be press-fit onto the rotary tool having the shank diameter. The model generating method according to claim 5 .

7. The outer diameter of the nut is determined based on the ISO 15488 standard so as to correspond to the size of the collet that is adapted to the shank diameter. The method of claim 6 .

8. causing the processor to generate a signal to a display to cause the display to display the geometric model of the tool holder; receiving, via the input interface, an input from an operator of at least one of a modification value of the flange diameter, the flange length, the body diameter, and the body length into the processor; upon said input of said at least one correction value, causing said processor to regenerate said shape model of said tool holder based on said at least one correction value. The method of claim 1 .

9. receiving, via the input interface, an input from an operator of a tool length offset, which is a protruding length of the rotary tool from a nut for fixing the rotary tool to the holder body, into the processor; causing the processor to obtain from the storage device third data defining a shape of the rotary tool; causing the processor to generate a geometric model of the rotary tool based on the tool length offset and the third data; causing the processor to generate an assembly model by combining the shape model of the rotary tool and the shape model of the tool holder; [0023] The method of claim 1 .

10. causing the processor to generate a signal to the display to cause the display to display the assembly model; accepting an input of at least one correction value of the flange diameter, the flange length, the body diameter, the body length, and the tool length offset via the input interface into the processor; upon said input of said at least one modification value, causing said processor to regenerate said assembly model based on said at least one modification value. The method of claim 9 .

11. A model generation method according to claim 9; causing the processor to obtain from the storage device a geometric model of the obstacle including a measuring device that measures the tool length offset; and causing the processor to determine whether or not the assembly model and the shape model of the obstacle interfere with each other before the shape model of the rotating tool reaches a predetermined position of the measuring device when a moving program of the rotating tool for measuring the rotating tool is executed by the measuring device. Judgment method.

12. A model generation method according to claim 9; causing the processor to retrieve from the storage device a shape model of an obstacle; a processor for determining whether or not the assembly model interferes with the shape model of the obstacle when a machine tool is caused to execute a machining program for driving a spindle of the machine tool to machine a workpiece.

13. The processor is configured to perform the model generation method of claims 1 to 10 or the determination method of claims 11 or 12; The storage device; The input interface; A computer comprising:

14. A computer according to claim 13; a machine tool including a spindle to which the tool holder can be attached; A machine tool system comprising:

15. A computer program comprising instructions which, when executed by a computer including said input interface, cause said computer to carry out the model generation method of claims 1 to 10 or the determination method of claim 11 or 12.

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