CUTTING TOOL, TOOL SYSTEM AND COMMUNICATION CONTROL METHOD

Abstract

A cutting tool, a tool system, and a communication control method that can achieve superior functionality in a system capable of monitoring the state of a cutting tool. [Solution] The cutting tool is a cutting tool for turning, and comprises a cutting insert 1 having a cutting edge, a holder 2 for holding the cutting insert, a wireless communication unit for transmitting information based on the measurement results of a sensor attached to the cutting tool, an acceleration sensor provided in the holder, and a control unit for performing first control to control the activation of the wireless communication unit based on the measurement results of the acceleration sensor.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a cutting tool, a tool system, and a communication control method. This application claims priority based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2020-99186, filed on June 8, 2020, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein in its entirety. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 (JP 2018-43339 A) discloses a cutting head with an electric current path as follows: That is, the cutting head with an electric current path is a cutting tool that cuts an object or a holder that holds the cutting tool, and an electric current path for measuring a change in the component is formed directly or indirectly in all or part of the component of the cutting tool or the holder. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2018-43339 A Summary of the Invention

[0004] The cutting tool of the present disclosure is a cutting tool for turning, and includes a cutting insert having a cutting edge, a holder for holding the cutting insert, a wireless communication unit for transmitting information based on measurement results of a sensor attached to the cutting tool, an acceleration sensor provided in the holder, and a control unit for performing first control that controls activation of the wireless communication unit based on the measurement results of the acceleration sensor.

[0005] The tool system of the present disclosure comprises a first cutting tool for turning and a second cutting tool for turning, each of the first cutting tool and the second cutting tool including a cutting insert having a cutting edge, a holder for holding the cutting insert, a wireless communication unit for transmitting measurement information based on measurement results of a sensor attached to each cutting tool, an acceleration sensor provided in the holder, and a control unit for performing startup control for controlling startup of the wireless communication unit based on the measurement results of the acceleration sensor, and when the first cutting tool and the second cutting tool change their posture relative to a workpiece, the control unit in the first cutting tool and the control unit in the second cutting tool perform the startup control with different contents from each other.

[0006] The communication control method disclosed herein is a communication control method in a tool system including a first cutting tool for turning and a second cutting tool for turning, wherein each of the first cutting tool and the second cutting tool includes a cutting insert having a cutting edge, a holder for holding the cutting insert, a wireless communication unit for transmitting information based on measurement results of sensors attached to each cutting tool, an acceleration sensor provided in the holder, and a control unit for performing startup control for controlling startup of the wireless communication unit based on the measurement results of the acceleration sensor, and includes a step in which the control unit in the first cutting tool acquires the measurement results of the corresponding acceleration sensor, a step in which the control unit in the second cutting tool acquires the measurement results of the corresponding acceleration sensor, and a step in which the control unit in the first cutting tool and the control unit in the second cutting tool perform the startup control with different contents from each other.

[0007] An aspect of the present disclosure may be realized as a semiconductor integrated circuit that realizes a part or all of a cutting tool. Also, an aspect of the present disclosure may be realized as a semiconductor integrated circuit that realizes a part or all of a tool system. Also, an aspect of the present disclosure may be realized as a program for causing a computer to execute processing steps in a communication control method. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a configuration of a tool system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a state in which a cutting tool in a tool system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is attached to a processing machine. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a sensor module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a change in attitude of one cutting tool when the tool system according to the embodiment of the present disclosure includes the cutting tool. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of a correspondence table stored in a storage unit in the cutting tool according to the embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating changes in attitude of each cutting tool when the tool system according to the embodiment of the present disclosure includes three cutting tools. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of a correspondence table stored in a storage unit in the cutting tool according to the embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a diagram for explaining the contents of the first startup control and the second startup control by the control unit in each cutting tool in step 1 shown in FIG. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a diagram for explaining the contents of the first startup control and the second startup control by the control unit in each cutting tool in step 2 shown in FIG. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining the contents of the first startup control and the second startup control by the control unit in each cutting tool in step 3 shown in FIG. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a flowchart defining the operation procedures of the first startup control and the second startup control by the control unit in the case of the concrete example 1 shown in FIG. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a sequence diagram defining the operation procedures of the first startup control and the second startup control by each control unit in the case of the specific example 2 shown in FIG. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a sequence diagram defining the operation procedures of the first startup control and the second startup control by each control unit in the case of the specific example 2 shown in FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0009] Conventionally, techniques for monitoring the state of a cutting tool are known.

[0010] [Problem that this disclosure aims to solve] There is a demand for technology that goes beyond the technology described in Patent Document 1 and that is capable of achieving better functionality in a system capable of monitoring the state of a cutting tool.

[0011] The present disclosure has been made to solve the above-mentioned problems, and its purpose is to provide a cutting tool, a tool system, and a communication control method that are capable of achieving better functionality in a system capable of monitoring the condition of a cutting tool.

[0012] [Effects of this disclosure] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to achieve superior functionality in a system capable of monitoring the state of a cutting tool.

[0013] [Description of the embodiments of the present disclosure] First, the contents of the embodiments of the present disclosure will be listed and described.

[0014] (1) A cutting tool according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is a cutting tool for turning, comprising: a cutting insert having a cutting edge; a holder for holding the cutting insert; a wireless communication unit for transmitting information based on measurement results of a sensor attached to the cutting tool; an acceleration sensor provided in the holder; and a control unit for performing a first control that controls activation of the wireless communication unit based on the measurement results of the acceleration sensor.

[0015] For example, in order to reduce the power consumption required for wireless transmission of information based on the measurement results (hereinafter, also referred to as "measurement information"), a technology is desired that starts the wireless communication unit at the timing of starting processing. On the other hand, in order to control the start of the wireless communication unit at the timing of starting processing, an input operation by an operator or the installation of an external device for detecting the timing of starting processing is required.

[0016] In response to this, the above-described configuration allows the state of the cutting tool to be determined using the acceleration sensor mounted on the cutting tool, thereby making it possible to grasp the appropriate timing for starting the wireless communication unit in the cutting tool, and thus to start the wireless communication unit at an appropriate timing without requiring an operator to perform an input operation or the installation of an external device.

[0017] In addition, by activating the wireless communication unit at an appropriate timing, it is possible to reduce the power consumption required for wireless transmission of measurement information and to suppress an increase in wireless traffic, thereby achieving more excellent functionality in a system capable of monitoring the condition of a cutting tool.

[0018] (2) The cutting tool may be configured to include a plurality of the acceleration sensors that measure acceleration in one direction, or a single acceleration sensor that measures acceleration in a plurality of directions.

[0019] For example, in a system in which cutting tools are attached to the turret of a processing machine and the turret rotates for each processing step, the cutting tool used in the processing is automatically replaced, the vertical gravitational acceleration that the cutting tool experiences will be the same at two locations that are symmetrical with respect to a line that passes through the center of the turret and extends vertically.

[0020] In contrast, with the above-described configuration, it is possible to measure gravitational acceleration in multiple directions, so that the posture of the cutting tool can be determined more accurately and the wireless communication unit can be started at a more appropriate time.

[0021] (3) The control unit may determine an attitude of the cutting tool with respect to a workpiece, and perform the first control according to the determined attitude.

[0022] With this configuration, for example, it is possible to grasp the timing at which the cutting tool assumes a processing posture, and therefore it is possible to start up the wireless communication unit in the cutting tool at a more appropriate timing.

[0023] (4) The postures include a processing posture in which processing is performed by the cutting tool, a stop posture in which processing is not performed by the cutting tool, and a preparatory posture between the processing posture and the stop posture, and the control unit may activate the wireless communication unit as the first control when the posture of the cutting tool with respect to the workpiece is the preparatory posture.

[0024] With this configuration, it is possible to secure time for establishing a communication connection between the cutting tool and the management device to which the measurement information is to be transmitted before the cutting tool starts machining, so that the management device can more reliably obtain the measurement information at the timing when machining starts.

[0025] (5) The cutting tool may further include a measurement sensor of a different type from the acceleration sensor, the wireless communication unit may transmit information based on the measurement results of the measurement sensor, and the control unit may further perform a second control to control activation of the measurement sensor based on the measurement results of the acceleration sensor.

[0026] In this manner, by performing the second control in addition to the first control, it is possible to further reduce power consumption.

[0027] (6) A tool system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes a first cutting tool for turning and a second cutting tool for turning, each of the first cutting tool and the second cutting tool including a cutting insert having a cutting edge, a holder for holding the cutting insert, a wireless communication unit for transmitting measurement information based on measurement results of a sensor attached to each of the cutting tools, an acceleration sensor provided in the holder, and a control unit for performing startup control for controlling startup of the wireless communication unit based on the measurement results of the acceleration sensor, and when the first cutting tool and the second cutting tool change their posture relative to a workpiece, the control unit in the first cutting tool and the control unit in the second cutting tool perform the startup control with different contents from each other.

[0028] For example, in order to reduce the power consumption required for wireless transmission of measurement information, a technology is desired that starts the wireless communication unit at the timing of starting processing. On the other hand, in order to control the start of the wireless communication unit at the timing of starting processing, an input operation by an operator or the installation of an external device for detecting the timing of starting processing is required.

[0029] In response to this, the above-described configuration allows the state of the cutting tool to be determined using the acceleration sensor mounted on the cutting tool, thereby making it possible to grasp the appropriate timing for starting the wireless communication unit in the cutting tool, and thus to start the wireless communication unit at an appropriate timing without requiring an operator to perform an input operation or the installation of an external device.

[0030] In addition, by starting the wireless communication unit at the appropriate time, it is possible to reduce the consumption of power required for wireless transmission of measurement information and to suppress an increase in wireless traffic, which is particularly effective in a tool system equipped with multiple cutting tools.

[0031] Furthermore, with the above-mentioned configuration, for example, at the timing when machining is performed by the first cutting tool, the wireless communication unit in the first cutting tool can be started and the wireless communication unit in the second cutting tool can be stopped. That is, the control unit in each cutting tool can perform the first control appropriate to the state of each cutting tool. Therefore, a more excellent function can be realized in a system capable of monitoring the state of the cutting tools.

[0032] (7) The tool system may further include a management device, wherein the control unit determines an attitude of the first cutting tool or the second cutting tool relative to a workpiece and creates attitude information indicating the determination result, the wireless communication unit transmits the measurement information including the attitude information created by the control unit, and the management device displays content based on the attitude information included in the measurement information received from the wireless communication unit.

[0033] With this configuration, the management device can grasp the posture of each cutting tool in addition to the sensor measurement results, making it easy to check whether the sensor measurements of the cutting tools being used for processing are being performed appropriately.

[0034] (8) A communication control method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is a communication control method in a tool system including a first cutting tool for turning and a second cutting tool for turning, wherein each of the first cutting tool and the second cutting tool includes a cutting insert having a cutting edge, a holder for holding the cutting insert, a wireless communication unit for transmitting information based on measurement results of a sensor attached to each cutting tool, an acceleration sensor provided in the holder, and a control unit for performing startup control for controlling startup of the wireless communication unit based on the measurement results of the acceleration sensor, and includes a step in which the control unit in the first cutting tool acquires the measurement results of the corresponding acceleration sensor, a step in which the control unit in the second cutting tool acquires the measurement results of the corresponding acceleration sensor, and a step in which the control unit in the first cutting tool and the control unit in the second cutting tool perform the startup control with different contents from each other.

[0035] For example, in order to reduce the power consumption required for wireless transmission of measurement information, a technology is desired that starts the wireless communication unit at the timing of starting processing. On the other hand, in order to control the start of the wireless communication unit at the timing of starting processing, an input operation by an operator or the installation of an external device for detecting the timing of starting processing is required.

[0036] In response to this, the above-described method can be used to determine the state of the cutting tool using an acceleration sensor mounted on the cutting tool, which makes it possible to grasp the appropriate timing for starting up the wireless communication unit in the cutting tool, and thus enables the wireless communication unit to be started up at an appropriate timing without requiring an operator to perform an input operation or the installation of an external device.

[0037] In addition, by starting the wireless communication unit at the appropriate time, it is possible to reduce the consumption of power required for wireless transmission of measurement information and to suppress an increase in wireless traffic, which is particularly effective in a tool system equipped with multiple cutting tools.

[0038] Furthermore, by using the above method, for example, when machining is performed by the first cutting tool, the wireless communication unit in the first cutting tool can be started and the wireless communication unit in the second cutting tool can be stopped. That is, the control unit in each cutting tool can perform the first control appropriate to the state of each cutting tool. Therefore, a more excellent function can be realized in a system capable of monitoring the state of the cutting tools.

[0039] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. In the drawings, the same or corresponding parts are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof will not be repeated. In addition, at least some of the embodiments described below may be arbitrarily combined.

[0040] [Configuration and basic operation] (Tool System) FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a configuration of a tool system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0041] 1, a tool system 300 includes a plurality of cutting tools 100 for turning, a management device 200, and a wireless master unit 201. The cutting tools 100 include a cutting tool holder 2 and a sensor module 110. The sensor module 110 includes a measurement sensor. Hereinafter, the cutting tool holder 2 is also simply referred to as a holder 2. The plurality of cutting tools 100 are attached to, for example, a processing machine.

[0042] The wireless master device 201 is connected, for example, by wire to the management device 200. The wireless master device 201 is, for example, an access point.

[0043] The holder 2 holds the cutting insert 1 having a cutting edge. The sensor module 110 is provided in the holder 2.

[0044] The holder 2 includes fixing members 3A and 3B. The fixing members 3A and 3B hold the cutting insert 1.

[0045] The cutting insert 1 has a polygonal shape, such as a triangle, a square, a rhombus, a pentagon, etc., in a top view. The cutting insert 1 has a through hole formed, for example, in the center of the top surface, and is fixed to the holder 2 by fixing members 3A and 3B.

[0046] The tool system 300 is not limited to a configuration including a plurality of cutting tools 100, and may be a configuration including one cutting tool 100. The tool system 300 is not limited to a configuration including one management device 200, and may be a configuration including a plurality of management devices 200.

[0047] The cutting tool 100 wirelessly transmits information based on the measurement results of the sensor in the sensor module 110 to the wireless master device 201. For example, the cutting tool 100 wirelessly transmits a sensor packet including measurement information based on the measurement results of the measurement sensor in the sensor module 110 to the wireless master device 201.

[0048] The cutting tool 100 and the wireless master unit 201 communicate wirelessly using a communication protocol such as ZigBee (registered trademark) conforming to IEEE 802.15.4, Bluetooth (registered trademark) conforming to IEEE 802.15.1, and UWB (Ultra Wide Band) conforming to IEEE 802.15.3a. Note that a communication protocol other than the above may be used between the cutting tool 100 and the wireless master unit 201.

[0049] The wireless master device 201 relays the sensor packet received from the cutting tool 100 to the management device 200 .

[0050] The management device 200 receives the sensor packets relayed by the wireless master device 201 and analyzes the measurement information included in the received sensor packets, thereby monitoring, for example, the state of the cutting tool 100.

[0051] Specifically, the management device 200 predicts the life of the cutting insert 1 in the cutting tool 100 that is the source of the measurement information based on the measurement information included in the received sensor packet. Then, the management device 200 issues a notification to the user, for example, to urge the user to replace the cutting insert 1 based on the prediction result.

[0052] (Example of a tool system) FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a state in which a cutting tool in a tool system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is attached to a processing machine.

[0053] 2, the processing machine 120 includes a motor holder 51, a motor (not shown) built into the motor holder 51, and a turret 52 that rotates when driven by the motor.

[0054] The turret 52 has, for example, a disk shape, and rotates in the circumferential direction indicated by the arrow R at the timing of replacing the cutting tool 100 used in processing. The turret 52 also includes one or more tool holding parts 53 on the outer periphery. The cutting tool 100 is attached to the tool holding part 53. In FIG. 2, as an example, the turret 52 includes six tool holding parts 53, and six cutting tools 100 are attached to the six tool holding parts 53, respectively.

[0055] Here, the six cutting tools 100 shown in Fig. 2 are referred to as cutting tools 100A, 100B, 100C, 100D, 100E, and 100F. In Fig. 2, the cutting insert 1 in the cutting tool 100A is in a position where it contacts the workpiece P (hereinafter, also referred to as the "machining position"), and the cutting tool 100A is performing machining on the workpiece P.

[0056] When the machining by the cutting tool 100A is completed, the turret 52 rotates in the circumferential direction, and for example, the cutting tool 100B moves to a machining position. Then, the workpiece P is machined by the cutting tool 100B.

[0057] When the machining by the cutting tool 100B is completed, the turret 52 rotates again in the circumferential direction, and for example, the cutting tool 100C moves to the machining position. Then, the workpiece P is machined by the cutting tool 100C.

[0058] In this manner, by rotating the turret 52, the cutting tool 100 used in processing can be replaced without transporting the cutting tool 100 or the workpiece P, for example.

[0059] (Sensor module) FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a sensor module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0060] 3, the sensor module 110 includes a measurement sensor 10, a data generating unit 20, a wireless communication unit 30, a control unit 40, an acceleration sensor 50, a battery 60, and a storage unit 70. The storage unit 70 is, for example, a non-volatile memory. The wireless communication unit 30 is, for example, realized by a communication circuit such as a communication integrated circuit (IC).

[0061] The battery 60 is an electricity storage device including, for example, a primary battery, a secondary battery, a solar cell, a capacitor, etc. The battery 60 stores energy and supplies power to each circuit in the sensor module 110, such as the wireless communication unit 30, using the stored energy.

[0062] The acceleration sensor 50 measures, for example, gravitational acceleration periodically or irregularly, and outputs an analog signal indicating the measurement result to the control unit 40. The acceleration sensor 50 is constantly driven by power supplied from the battery 60, for example, while the tool system 300 is in operation.

[0063] The measurement sensor 10 includes, for example, at least one of a strain sensor, a pressure sensor, a sound sensor, and a temperature sensor. The measurement sensor 10 is provided in the holder 2 near the cutting insert 1, for example.

[0064] The measurement sensor 10 measures at least one of physical quantities such as strain, pressure, sound, and temperature, and outputs an analog signal indicating the measured physical quantity to the data generating unit 20. The measurement sensor 10 is driven by power supplied from a battery 60, for example.

[0065] The measurement sensor 10 switches between a measurement state in which it is activated and a non-measurement state in which it is deactivated. The measurement sensor 10 performs measurement in the measurement state and outputs an analog signal indicating the measured physical quantity to the data generating unit 20, while it stops in the non-measurement state.

[0066] The data generating unit 20 generates measurement information including the measurement results of the measurement sensor 10 or information based on the measurement results. More specifically, the data generating unit 20 receives an analog signal from the measurement sensor 10 and generates measurement information including the measurement results obtained by AD (Analog Digital) converting the received analog signal, or measurement information including values ​​obtained by performing calculations such as averaging on the measurement results.

[0067] The data generating unit 20 generates a sensor packet in which the generated measurement information and the sensor ID of the measurement sensor 10 and the like are stored, and outputs the generated sensor packet to the wireless communication unit 30.

[0068] The wireless communication unit 30 transmits measurement information based on the measurement results of the sensor attached to the cutting tool 100 to a wireless master unit 201 outside the cutting tool 100. More specifically, the wireless communication unit 30 wirelessly transmits a sensor packet, which contains the measurement information and the sensor ID of the measurement sensor 10 and the like received from the data generation unit 20, to the wireless master unit 201. The wireless communication unit 30 is driven by power supplied from a battery.

[0069] The wireless communication unit 30 switches between a reporting state in which the wireless communication unit 30 is activated and a non-reporting state in which the wireless communication unit 30 is deactivated. In the reporting state, the wireless communication unit 30 wirelessly transmits a sensor packet to the wireless master device 201, whereas in the non-reporting state, the wireless communication unit 30 does not wirelessly transmit a sensor packet to the wireless master device 201.

[0070] The control unit 40 is realized by a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and an MPU (Micro Processing Unit). The control unit 40 performs a first startup control for controlling the startup of the wireless communication unit 30 and a second startup control for controlling the startup of the measurement sensor 10 based on the measurement result of the acceleration sensor 50.

[0071] That is, the control unit 40 performs a switching process as a first startup control to switch between a reporting state and a non-reporting state of the wireless communication unit 30. Also, the control unit 40 performs a switching process as a second startup control to switch between a measuring state and a non-measurement state of the measurement sensor 10.

[0072] More specifically, the memory unit 70 stores, for example, a correspondence table T indicating the correspondence between the measurement results of the acceleration sensor 50, the attitude of the cutting tool 100 relative to the workpiece P, the state of the wireless communication unit 30, and the state of the measurement sensor 10.

[0073] The attitude of the cutting tool 100 with respect to the workpiece P is determined by the angle of the rake face of the cutting tool 100 with respect to the workpiece P, i.e., the angle of the face that sends out shavings, and the position of the cutting tool 100. Hereinafter, the attitude of the cutting tool 100 with respect to the workpiece P will also be simply referred to as the "attitude of the cutting tool 100."

[0074] The control unit 40 refers to the correspondence table T stored in the storage unit 70 and determines the posture of each cutting tool 100 based on the measurement results of the acceleration sensor 50. That is, the control unit 40 determines the posture of the cutting tool 100 equipped with the sensor module 110 including the control unit 40. Then, the control unit 40 refers to the correspondence table T and performs a process of switching between the reporting state and non-reporting state of the wireless communication unit 30 and the measuring state and non-measurement state of the measurement sensor 10 based on the determined posture of the cutting tool 100.

[0075] (Example 1 of switching process) Fig. 4 is a diagram showing a change in the posture of a cutting tool when the tool system according to the embodiment of the present disclosure includes one cutting tool. Fig. 5 is a diagram showing an example of a correspondence table stored in a memory unit of the cutting tool according to the embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0076] With reference to Figures 3 to 5, the posture of the cutting tool 100 when no machining is being performed by the cutting tool 100 is designated "posture 1," and the posture of the cutting tool 100 when machining is being performed by the cutting tool 100 is designated "posture 2."

[0077] Here, the acceleration sensor 50 in the cutting tool 100 measures the gravitational acceleration of the cutting tool 100 in the radial direction (hereinafter also referred to as the "Y direction") of the turret 52. The gravitational acceleration in the Y direction that the cutting tool 100 receives changes in response to a change in the attitude of the cutting tool 100 caused by the rotation of the turret 52.

[0078] The memory unit 70 stores a correspondence table T1, which is a correspondence table T. The correspondence table T1 indicates that when the measurement result of the acceleration sensor 50 is other than 1G, the posture of the cutting tool 100 is "posture 1." Furthermore, the correspondence table T1 indicates that when the measurement result of the acceleration sensor 50 is 1G, the posture of the cutting tool 100 is "posture 2."

[0079] Furthermore, correspondence table T1 indicates that when the posture of cutting tool 100 is "Posture 1", the wireless communication unit 30 is in a non-reporting state and the measurement sensor 10 is in a non-measuring state. Furthermore, correspondence table T1 indicates that when the posture of cutting tool 100 is "Posture 2", the wireless communication unit 30 is in a reporting state and the measurement sensor 10 is in a measuring state.

[0080] Furthermore, the correspondence table T1 indicates that the acceleration sensor 50 is constantly driven.

[0081] The control unit 40 determines the attitude of the cutting tool 100 based on the measurement result indicated by the analog signal received from the acceleration sensor 50 and the correspondence table T1. Then, the control unit 40 performs a first startup control and a second startup control according to the determined attitude.

[0082] Specifically, it is assumed that the control unit 40 determines that the posture of the cutting tool 100 is "Posture 2" when the wireless communication unit 30 is in a non-reporting state and the measurement sensor 10 is in a non-measurement state. In this case, the control unit 40 switches the wireless communication unit 30 from a non-reporting state to a reporting state as a first activation control. Also, the control unit 40 switches the measurement sensor 10 from a non-measurement state to a measurement state as a second activation control.

[0083] Also, assume that the control unit 40 determines that the posture of the cutting tool 100 is "Posture 2" when the wireless communication unit 30 is in the reporting state and the measurement sensor 10 is in the measuring state. In this case, the control unit 40 continues the reporting state of the wireless communication unit 30 and the measuring state of the measurement sensor 10 as the first startup control and the second startup control.

[0084] Also, assume that the control unit 40 determines that the posture of the cutting tool 100 is "Posture 1" when the wireless communication unit 30 is in a reporting state and the measurement sensor 10 is in a measuring state. In this case, the control unit 40 switches the wireless communication unit 30 from a reporting state to a non-reporting state as a first startup control. Also, the control unit 40 switches the measurement sensor 10 from a measuring state to a non-measuring state as a second startup control.

[0085] Also, assume that the control unit 40 determines that the posture of the cutting tool 100 is "Posture 1" when the wireless communication unit 30 is in the non-reporting state and the measurement sensor 10 is in the non-measurement state. In this case, the control unit 40 continues the non-reporting state of the wireless communication unit 30 and the non-measurement state of the measurement sensor 10 as the first startup control and the second startup control.

[0086] Hereinafter, the process of switching the wireless communication unit 30 from a non-reporting state to a reporting state, and the process of continuing the reporting state of the wireless communication unit 30 are both also referred to as "process of switching the wireless communication unit 30 to a reporting state." Additionally, the process of switching the wireless communication unit 30 from a reporting state to a non-reporting state, and the process of continuing the non-reporting state of the wireless communication unit 30 are both also referred to as "process of switching the wireless communication unit 30 to a non-reporting state."

[0087] In addition, the process of switching the measurement sensor 10 from a non-measurement state to a measurement state, and the process of continuing the measurement state of the measurement sensor 10 are both also referred to as a "process of switching the measurement sensor 10 to the measurement state." In addition, the process of switching the measurement sensor 10 from a measurement state to a non-measurement state, and the process of continuing the non-measurement state of the measurement sensor 10 are both also referred to as a "process of switching the measurement sensor 10 to the non-measurement state."

[0088] (Example 2 of switching process) FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating changes in attitude of each cutting tool when the tool system according to the embodiment of the present disclosure includes three cutting tools.

[0089] 6, it is assumed here that three cutting tools 100A, 100B, and 100C, which are cutting tools 100, are attached to turret 52 at intervals of 45°. Also, a process in which machining is performed by cutting tool 100A is referred to as "process 1," a process in which machining is performed by cutting tool 100B is referred to as "process 2," and a process in which machining is performed by cutting tool 100C is referred to as "process 3."

[0090] Moreover, here, the acceleration sensor 50 in each cutting tool 100 measures acceleration in two directions. More specifically, the acceleration sensor 50 measures the gravitational acceleration of the corresponding cutting tool 100 in a tangential direction of the turret 52 and in a direction along the rotation direction of the turret 52 indicated by the arrow R (hereinafter referred to as the "X direction"), and the gravitational acceleration of the corresponding cutting tool 100 in a radial direction of the turret 52, i.e., the "Y direction."

[0091] Hereinafter, the gravitational acceleration in the X direction will also be referred to as the “X value,” and the gravitational acceleration in the Y direction will also be referred to as the “Y value.” The X value and Y value change according to a change in the attitude of the cutting tool 100 caused by the rotation of the turret 52.

[0092] Furthermore, the control unit 40 in each cutting tool 100 determines three postures of each cutting tool 100, and performs first startup control and second startup control according to the determined posture. The three postures include a "processing posture" in which processing is performed by the cutting tool 100, a "stop posture" in which the cutting tool 100 is not in contact with the workpiece P, and a "preparation posture" immediately before processing is performed by the cutting tool 100.

[0093] That is, the "stop posture" is a posture in a state where no machining is being performed by the cutting tool 100, for example, the posture of the cutting tool 100 at a stop position before it becomes a machining posture. Note that the posture of the cutting tool 100 at a position at an angle of 90 degrees or more from the direction of gravity in the counter-rotation direction of the turret 52 may be the "stop posture".

[0094] The "preparation posture" is a posture during which the posture of the cutting tool 100 changes from the stop posture to the processing posture, for example, the posture of the cutting tool 100 at a stop position between the stop posture and the processing posture. Note that the posture of the cutting tool 100 at a position where the angle from the direction of gravity in the counter-rotation direction of the turret 52 is greater than 0 degrees and less than 90 degrees may be set as the "preparation posture". The posture of the cutting tool 100 at a position between the stop position Ps1, which is the processing posture, and the stop position Ps2 immediately before the stop position Ps1 in the rotation direction of the turret 52 may be set as the "preparation posture".

[0095] FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of a correspondence table stored in a storage unit in the cutting tool according to the embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0096] 7, the memory unit 70 of each of the cutting tools 100A, 100B, and 100C stores a correspondence table T2, which is the correspondence table T. The correspondence table T2 indicates that when the X value and the Y value are (0G, 1G), the posture of the cutting tool 100 is the “machining posture.”

[0097] Furthermore, correspondence table T2 indicates that when the X value and the Y value are (0.5G, 0.5G) or (-1G, 0G), the posture of cutting tool 100 is the "ready posture."

[0098] Furthermore, correspondence table T2 indicates that when the X value and the Y value are (1G, 0G) or (-0.5G, 0.5G), the posture of cutting tool 100 is the "stop posture."

[0099] Furthermore, the correspondence table T2 indicates that when the cutting tool 100 is in the "machining posture", the wireless communication unit 30 is in the reporting state and the measurement sensor 10 is in the measuring state.

[0100] Furthermore, the correspondence table T2 indicates that when the cutting tool 100 is in the "ready posture", the wireless communication unit 30 is in the reporting state and the measurement sensor 10 is in the non-measurement state.

[0101] Furthermore, the correspondence table T2 indicates that when the cutting tool 100 is in the "stopped posture", the wireless communication unit 30 is in the non-reporting state and the measurement sensor 10 is in the non-measurement state.

[0102] Furthermore, the correspondence table T2 indicates that the acceleration sensor 50 is constantly driven.

[0103] (a) Process 1 FIG. 8 is a diagram for explaining the contents of the first startup control and the second startup control by the control unit in each cutting tool in step 1 shown in FIG.

[0104] 3 and 6 to 8, control unit 40 in each of cutting tools 100A, 100B, 100C performs first startup control and second startup control based on the X value and Y value indicated by the analog signal received from acceleration sensor 50 and correspondence table T2.

[0105] More specifically, for example, each time the control unit 40 receives an analog signal from the acceleration sensor 50, the control unit 40 checks the combination of X and Y values ​​indicated by the analog signal. Then, when the newly obtained combination of X and Y values ​​matches any one of the combinations of X and Y values ​​indicated in the correspondence table T2, the control unit 40 determines the corresponding attitude of the cutting tool 100.

[0106] For example, at the timing when the cutting tools 100A, 100B, 100C change their postures with respect to the workpiece P, the posture determination results by each control unit 40 are different from each other. Therefore, each control unit 40 performs first startup control and second startup control having different contents from each other based on the determination results.

[0107] Specifically, in step 1, the X and Y values ​​measured by the acceleration sensor 50 in the cutting tool 100A are (0G, 1G). The control unit 40 in the cutting tool 100A refers to the correspondence table T2, determines that the posture of the cutting tool 100A is the "machining posture", and performs a process of switching the wireless communication unit 30 to a reporting state and a process of switching the measurement sensor 10 to a measuring state based on the determination result.

[0108] In step 1, the X and Y values ​​of the acceleration sensor 50 in the cutting tool 100B are (0.5 G, 0.5 G). The control unit 40 in the cutting tool 100B refers to the correspondence table T2, determines that the posture of the cutting tool 100B is the "preparation posture", and performs a process of switching the wireless communication unit 30 to a reporting state and a process of switching the measurement sensor 10 to a non-measurement state based on the determination result.

[0109] In step 1, the X and Y values ​​of the acceleration sensor 50 in the cutting tool 100C are (1 G, 0 G). The control unit 40 in the cutting tool 100C refers to the correspondence table T2, determines that the posture of the cutting tool 100C is a "stop posture", and performs a process of switching the wireless communication unit 30 to a non-reporting state and a process of switching the measurement sensor 10 to a non-measurement state based on the determination result.

[0110] (b) Process 2 FIG. 9 is a diagram for explaining the contents of the first startup control and the second startup control by the control unit in each cutting tool in step 2 shown in FIG.

[0111] 3, 6, 7 and 9, in step 2, the X value and the Y value measured by the acceleration sensor 50 in the cutting tool 100A are (-0.5 G, 0.5 G). The control unit 40 in the cutting tool 100A determines that the posture of the cutting tool 100A is a "stop posture" and, based on the determination result, performs processing for switching the wireless communication unit 30 to a non-reporting state and processing for switching the measurement sensor 10 to a non-measurement state.

[0112] In step 2, the X and Y values ​​of the acceleration sensor 50 in the cutting tool 100B are (0G, 1G). The control unit 40 in the cutting tool 100B determines that the posture of the cutting tool 100B is the "machining posture", and performs a process of switching the wireless communication unit 30 to a reporting state and a process of switching the measuring sensor 10 to a measuring state based on the determination result.

[0113] In step 2, the X and Y values ​​of the acceleration sensor 50 in the cutting tool 100C are (0.5 G, 0.5 G). The control unit 40 in the cutting tool 100C determines that the posture of the cutting tool 100C is the "preparation posture", and performs a process of switching the wireless communication unit 30 to a reporting state and a process of switching the measurement sensor 10 to a non-measurement state based on the determination result.

[0114] (c) Process 3 FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining the contents of the first startup control and the second startup control by the control unit in each cutting tool in step 3 shown in FIG.

[0115] 3, 6, 7 and 10, in step 3, the X value and the Y value of the acceleration sensor 50 in the cutting tool 100A are (-1G, 0G). The control unit 40 in the cutting tool 100A determines that the posture of the cutting tool 100A is the "preparation posture", and performs a process of switching the wireless communication unit 30 to a reporting state and a process of switching the measurement sensor 10 to a non-measurement state based on the determination result.

[0116] In step 3, the X and Y values ​​measured by the acceleration sensor 50 in the cutting tool 100B are (-0.5 G, 0.5 G). The control unit 40 in the cutting tool 100B determines that the posture of the cutting tool 100B is a "stop posture", and performs a process of switching the wireless communication unit 30 to a non-reporting state and the measurement sensor 10 to a non-measurement state based on the determination result.

[0117] In step 3, the X and Y values ​​of the acceleration sensor 50 in the cutting tool 100C are (0G, 1G). The control unit 40 in the cutting tool 100C determines that the posture of the cutting tool 100C is the "machining posture", and performs a process of switching the wireless communication unit 30 to a reporting state and a process of switching the measuring sensor 10 to a measuring state based on the determination result.

[0118] The cutting tool 100 is not limited to a configuration including an acceleration sensor 50 that measures gravitational acceleration in two directions. For example, the cutting tool 100 may include an acceleration sensor 50 that measures gravitational acceleration in three or more directions, or may include multiple acceleration sensors 50 that measure gravitational acceleration in one direction. Furthermore, the cutting tool 100 may include one acceleration sensor 50 that measures gravitational acceleration in one direction.

[0119] Furthermore, the cutting tool 100 may transmit information based on the measurement results from the acceleration sensor 50 to the management device 200 in addition to the information based on the measurement results from the measurement sensor 10 .

[0120] In this case, the acceleration sensor 50 outputs an analog signal indicating the measurement result to the data generation unit 20. The data generation unit 20 creates measurement information including information based on the measurement result of the measurement sensor 10 and information based on the measurement result of the acceleration sensor 50, and outputs the created measurement information to the wireless communication unit 30. The wireless communication unit 30 transmits the measurement information received from the data generation unit 20 to the wireless master device 201.

[0121] Furthermore, the cutting tool 100 may not include the measurement sensor 10. In this case, the wireless communication unit 30 transmits measurement information including information based on the measurement result by the acceleration sensor 50 to the wireless master device 201. In this case, the control unit 40 does not perform the second startup control.

[0122] Furthermore, even when the tool system 300 includes two cutting tools 100, the configuration and operation are similar to those of the tool system 300 including three cutting tools 100 described above.

[0123] Furthermore, the control unit 40 is not limited to a configuration that determines the attitude of the cutting tool 100, but may be configured to determine some state of the cutting tool 100 and perform the first startup control using the determination result.

[0124] [Operation] Next, an operation procedure when the cutting tool 100 in the tool system 300 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure performs the first startup control and the second startup control will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0125] Each device in the tool system according to the embodiment of the present disclosure includes a computer including a memory, and a processor such as a CPU in the computer reads out from the memory and executes a program including some or all of the steps of the following flowcharts and sequences. Each of the programs for the multiple devices can be installed from the outside. Each of the programs for the multiple devices is distributed in a state in which it is stored in a recording medium.

[0126] (Operation Procedures of First Start-Up Control and Second Start-Up Control in the Case of Specific Example 1) FIG. 11 is a flowchart defining the operation procedures of the first startup control and the second startup control by the control unit in the case of the concrete example 1 shown in FIG.

[0127] 4, 5 and 11, first, acceleration sensor 50 measures the gravitational acceleration of cutting tool 100, and outputs an analog signal indicating the measurement result to control unit 40 (step S101).

[0128] Next, the control unit 40 receives the analog signal output from the acceleration sensor 50 and determines the posture of the cutting tool 100 based on the measurement result indicated by the analog signal and the correspondence table T1 stored in the memory unit 70 (step S102).

[0129] Next, when the control unit 40 determines that the posture of the cutting tool 100 is "posture 2" ("YES" in step S103), the control unit 40 performs a switching process to the report state of the wireless communication unit 30 as a first startup control. That is, the control unit 40 starts the wireless communication unit 30. Moreover, the control unit 40 performs a switching process to the measurement state of the measurement sensor 10 as a second startup control. That is, the control unit 40 starts the measurement sensor 10 (step S104).

[0130] Next, the wireless communication unit 30 establishes a communication connection between the cutting tool 100 and the management device 200 (step S105). When the communication connection between the cutting tool 100 and the management device 200 is established, the wireless communication unit 30 maintains the connection state.

[0131] Next, the measurement sensor 10 measures at least one of physical quantities such as acceleration, strain, pressure, sound, and temperature, and outputs an analog signal indicating the measured physical quantity to the data generator 20 (step S106).

[0132] Next, the data generation unit 20 creates measurement information including the measurement results of the measurement sensor 10 or information based on the measurement results, and outputs the created measurement information to the wireless communication unit 30. Then, the wireless communication unit 30 transmits the measurement information received from the data generation unit 20 to the management device 200 via the wireless master device 201 (step S107).

[0133] Next, the acceleration sensor 50 measures the gravitational acceleration of the cutting tool 100 again, and outputs an analog signal indicating the measurement result to the control unit 40 (step S101).

[0134] Next, the control unit 40 receives the analog signal output from the acceleration sensor 50 and again determines the posture of the cutting tool 100 based on the measurement result indicated by the analog signal and the correspondence table T1 stored in the memory unit 70 (step S102).

[0135] Next, when the control unit 40 determines that the posture of the cutting tool 100 is "posture 1" ("NO" in step S103), the control unit 40 performs a switching process of the wireless communication unit 30 to a non-reporting state as a first startup control. That is, the control unit 40 stops the wireless communication unit 30. Moreover, the control unit 40 performs a switching process of the measurement sensor 10 to a non-measurement state as a second startup control. That is, the control unit 40 stops the measurement sensor 10 (step S108).

[0136] The above-mentioned measurement by the measurement sensor 10 (step S106) and transmission of measurement information by the wireless communication unit 30 (step S107) are repeated periodically or irregularly until the wireless communication unit 30 is switched to a non-reporting state and the measurement sensor 10 is switched to a non-measurement state (step S108).

[0137] (Operation Procedures of First Start-Up Control and Second Start-Up Control in the Case of Specific Example 2) 12 and 13 are sequence diagrams defining the operation procedures of the first startup control and the second startup control by each control unit in the case of the specific example 2 shown in FIG.

[0138] 6 to 9, 12 and 13, first, the acceleration sensor 50 in each of the cutting tools 100A, 100B, 100C measures the X value and the Y value, which are the gravitational acceleration of the corresponding cutting tool 100, and outputs an analog signal indicative of the measurement result to the corresponding control unit 40 (step S201).

[0139] Next, the control unit 40 in each of the cutting tools 100A, 100B, 100C receives the analog signal output from the corresponding acceleration sensor 50 and determines the posture of the corresponding cutting tool 100 based on the measurement result indicated by the analog signal and the correspondence table T2 stored in the corresponding memory unit 70.

[0140] Here, it is assumed that the control unit 40 of the cutting tool 100A determines the posture of the cutting tool 100A to be the "machining posture." It is assumed that the control unit 40 of the cutting tool 100B determines the posture of the cutting tool 100B to be the "preparation posture." It is assumed that the control unit 40 of the cutting tool 100C determines the posture of the cutting tool 100C to be the "stop posture" (step S202).

[0141] Next, the control unit 40 of the cutting tool 100A performs processing for switching the wireless communication unit 30 to a reporting state and processing for switching the measurement sensor 10 to a measuring state (step S203).

[0142] Next, the control unit 40 of the cutting tool 100B performs processing for switching the wireless communication unit 30 to a reporting state and processing for switching the measurement sensor 10 to a non-measurement state (step S204).

[0143] Next, the control unit 40 of the cutting tool 100C performs processing for switching the wireless communication unit 30 to a non-reporting state and processing for switching the measurement sensor 10 to a non-measurement state (step S205).

[0144] Next, the wireless communication unit 30 in the cutting tool 100A establishes a communication connection between the cutting tool 100A and the management device 200 (step S206). When the communication connection between the cutting tool 100A and the management device 200 is established, the wireless communication unit 30 maintains the connection.

[0145] Next, the wireless communication unit 30 in the cutting tool 100B establishes a communication connection between the cutting tool 100B and the management device 200 (step S207). When the communication connection between the cutting tool 100B and the management device 200 is established, the wireless communication unit 30 maintains the connection.

[0146] Next, the measurement sensor 10 in the cutting tool 100A measures at least one of physical quantities such as acceleration, strain, pressure, sound, and temperature, and outputs an analog signal indicating the measured physical quantity to the corresponding data generation unit 20 (step S208).

[0147] Next, the data generation unit 20 in the cutting tool 100A creates measurement information including the measurement result of the measurement sensor 10 or information based on the measurement result, and outputs the created measurement information to the corresponding wireless communication unit 30. Then, the wireless communication unit 30 transmits the measurement information received from the data generation unit 20 to the management device 200 via the wireless master unit 201 (step S209).

[0148] Next, the acceleration sensor 50 in each of the cutting tools 100A, 100B, 100C again measures the X and Y values, which are the gravitational acceleration of the corresponding cutting tool 100, and outputs an analog signal indicating the measurement result to the corresponding control unit 40 (step S211).

[0149] Next, the control unit 40 in each of the cutting tools 100A, 100B, 100C receives the analog signal output from the corresponding acceleration sensor 50 and determines the posture of the corresponding cutting tool 100 based on the measurement results indicated by the analog signal and the correspondence table T2 stored in the corresponding memory unit 70.

[0150] Here, it is assumed that the control unit 40 of the cutting tool 100A determines the posture of the cutting tool 100A to be a "stop posture." It is also assumed that the control unit 40 of the cutting tool 100B determines the posture of the cutting tool 100B to be a "machining posture." It is also assumed that the control unit 40 of the cutting tool 100C determines the posture of the cutting tool 100C to be a "preparation posture" (step S212).

[0151] Next, the control unit 40 of the cutting tool 100A performs processing for switching the wireless communication unit 30 to a non-reporting state and processing for switching the measurement sensor 10 to a non-measurement state (step S213).

[0152] As described above, in the cutting tool 100A, measurement by the measurement sensor 10 (step S208) and transmission of measurement information by the wireless communication unit 30 (step S209) are repeated periodically or irregularly until a process of switching the wireless communication unit 30 to a non-reporting state and a process of switching the measurement sensor 10 to a non-measurement state (step S213) are performed.

[0153] Next, the control unit 40 of the cutting tool 100B performs processing for switching the wireless communication unit 30 to a reporting state, and processing for switching the measurement sensor 10 to a measuring state (step S214).

[0154] Next, the control unit 40 of the cutting tool 100C performs processing for switching the wireless communication unit 30 to a reporting state, and processing for switching the measurement sensor 10 to a non-measurement state (step S215).

[0155] Next, the wireless communication unit 30 in the cutting tool 100C establishes a communication connection between the cutting tool 100C and the management device 200 (step S216). Note that, at this stage, the communication connection between the cutting tool 100A and the management device 200 is disconnected, and the communication connection between the cutting tool 100B and the management device 200 is maintained.

[0156] Next, the measurement sensor 10 in the cutting tool 100B measures at least one of physical quantities such as acceleration, strain, pressure, sound, and temperature, and outputs an analog signal indicating the measured physical quantity to the corresponding data generation unit 20 (step S217).

[0157] Next, the data generation unit 20 in the cutting tool 100B creates measurement information including the measurement result of the measurement sensor 10 or information based on the measurement result, and outputs the created measurement information to the corresponding wireless communication unit 30. Then, the wireless communication unit 30 transmits the measurement information received from the data generation unit 20 to the management device 200 via the wireless master unit 201 (step S218).

[0158] Next, the acceleration sensor 50 in each of the cutting tools 100A, 100B, 100C again measures the X and Y values, which are the gravitational acceleration of the corresponding cutting tool 100, and outputs an analog signal indicating the measurement result to the corresponding control unit 40 (step S221).

[0159] Next, the control unit 40 in each of the cutting tools 100A, 100B, 100C receives the analog signal output from the corresponding acceleration sensor 50 and determines the posture of the corresponding cutting tool 100 based on the measurement results indicated by the analog signal and the correspondence table T2 stored in the corresponding memory unit 70.

[0160] Here, it is assumed that the control unit 40 of the cutting tool 100A determines the posture of the cutting tool 100A to be the "preparation posture." It is also assumed that the control unit 40 of the cutting tool 100B determines the posture of the cutting tool 100B to be the "stop posture." It is also assumed that the control unit 40 of the cutting tool 100C determines the posture of the cutting tool 100C to be the "machining posture" (step S222).

[0161] Next, the control unit 40 of the cutting tool 100A performs processing for switching the wireless communication unit 30 to a reporting state and processing for switching the measurement sensor 10 to a non-measurement state (step S223).

[0162] Next, the control unit 40 of the cutting tool 100B performs processing for switching the wireless communication unit 30 to a non-reporting state and processing for switching the measurement sensor 10 to a non-measurement state (step S224).

[0163] As described above, in the cutting tool 100B, measurement by the measurement sensor 10 (step S217) and transmission of measurement information by the wireless communication unit 30 (step S218) are repeated periodically or irregularly until a process of switching the wireless communication unit 30 to a non-reporting state and a process of switching the measurement sensor 10 to a non-measurement state (step S224) are performed.

[0164] Next, the control unit 40 of the cutting tool 100C performs processing for switching the wireless communication unit 30 to a reporting state, and processing for switching the measurement sensor 10 to a measuring state (step S225).

[0165] Next, the wireless communication unit 30 in the cutting tool 100A establishes a communication connection between the cutting tool 100A and the management device 200 (step S226). Note that, at this stage, the communication connection between the cutting tool 100B and the management device 200 is disconnected, and the communication connection between the cutting tool 100C and the management device 200 is maintained.

[0166] Next, the measurement sensor 10 in the cutting tool 100C measures at least one of physical quantities such as acceleration, strain, pressure, sound, and temperature, and outputs an analog signal indicating the measured physical quantity to the corresponding data generation unit 20 (step S227).

[0167] Next, the data generation unit 20 in the cutting tool 100C creates measurement information including the measurement result of the measurement sensor 10 or information based on the measurement result, and outputs the created measurement information to the corresponding wireless communication unit 30. Then, the wireless communication unit 30 transmits the measurement information received from the data generation unit 20 to the management device 200 via the wireless master unit 201 (step S228).

[0168] [Variations] The wireless communication unit 30 in the cutting tool 100 may transmit information indicating the result of the determination made by the control unit 40 of the attitude of the cutting tool 100 to the management device 200 via the wireless master device 201.

[0169] More specifically, the control unit 40 determines the posture of the cutting tool 100, and creates posture information indicating the determination result. Then, the control unit 40 outputs the created posture information to the data generating unit 20.

[0170] The data generation unit 20 creates measurement information including information based on the measurement results of the measurement sensor 10 and attitude information received from the control unit 40 , and outputs the created measurement information to the wireless communication unit 30 .

[0171] The wireless communication unit 30 transmits the measurement information received from the data generation unit 20 to the management device 200 via the wireless master device 201 .

[0172] The management device 200 displays content based on the posture information included in the measurement information received from the wireless communication unit 30. For example, the management device 200 displays, on a monitor or display device provided in the management device 200, the ID of the cutting tool 100 corresponding to the wireless communication unit 30, the posture of the cutting tool 100 indicated by the posture information, and the measurement result of the measurement sensor 10 included in the measurement information.

[0173] Specifically, it is assumed that the tool system 300 includes three cutting tools 100A, 100B, and 100C.

[0174] As described above, when the posture of cutting tool 100A is the machining posture, wireless communication unit 30 of cutting tool 100A is in the reporting state, and measurement sensor 10 of cutting tool 100A is in the measuring state. Therefore, on screen G displayed by management device 200, for example, the ID of cutting tool 100A, the posture of cutting tool 100A being the "machining posture," and the measurement results of measurement sensor 10 of cutting tool 100A are displayed.

[0175] Furthermore, when the cutting tool 100B is in the ready position, the wireless communication unit 30 of the cutting tool 100B is in a reporting state, and the measurement sensor 10 of the cutting tool 100B is in a non-measurement state. For this reason, for example, the ID of the cutting tool 100B and the position of the cutting tool 100B being the "ready position" are displayed on the screen G, but the measurement results of the measurement sensor 10 of the cutting tool 100B are not displayed.

[0176] Furthermore, when the cutting tool 100C is in a stopped position, the wireless communication unit 30 of the cutting tool 100C is in a non-reporting state, and the measurement sensor 10 of the cutting tool 100C is in a non-measurement state. Therefore, no measurement information is transmitted from the cutting tool 100C, and the screen G displays, for example, the ID of the cutting tool 100C, but does not display the position of the cutting tool 100C or the measurement results of the measurement sensor 10 of the cutting tool 100C.

[0177] Meanwhile, in a system capable of monitoring the state of a cutting tool, a technique capable of realizing more excellent functions is desired.

[0178] In contrast, in the cutting tool 100 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure, the cutting insert 1 has a cutting edge. The holder 2 holds the cutting insert 1. The wireless communication unit 30 transmits information based on the measurement results of a sensor attached to the cutting tool 100. The acceleration sensor 50 is provided in the holder 2. The control unit 40 performs a first startup control for controlling the startup of the wireless communication unit 30 based on the measurement results of the acceleration sensor 50.

[0179] For example, in order to reduce the power consumption required for wireless transmission of measurement information based on the measurement results, a technique is desired that starts the wireless communication unit 30 at the timing of starting processing. On the other hand, in order to control the start of the wireless communication unit 30 at the timing of starting processing, an input operation by an operator or the installation of an external device for detecting the timing of starting processing is required.

[0180] In response to this, with the above-described configuration, the acceleration sensor 50 mounted on the cutting tool 100 can be used to determine the state of the cutting tool 100. This makes it possible to know the appropriate timing for starting the wireless communication unit 30 in the cutting tool 100, and therefore the wireless communication unit 30 can be started at an appropriate timing without requiring an input operation by an operator or the installation of an external device.

[0181] Furthermore, by activating the wireless communication unit 30 at an appropriate timing, it is possible to reduce the consumption of power required for wireless transmission of measurement information and to suppress an increase in wireless traffic.

[0182] Therefore, the cutting tool 100 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure can achieve superior functionality in a system capable of monitoring the state of the cutting tool 100.

[0183] Furthermore, the cutting tool 100 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure includes a plurality of acceleration sensors 50 that measure acceleration in one direction, or a single acceleration sensor 50 that measures acceleration in multiple directions.

[0184] For example, in a system in which cutting tool 100 is attached to turret 52 of processing machine 120 and cutting tool 100 used for processing is automatically replaced by rotating turret 52 for each processing step, the vertical gravitational acceleration that cutting tool 100 receives will be the same value at two locations that are symmetrical with respect to a line that passes through the center of turret 52 and extends vertically.

[0185] In contrast, with the above-described configuration, it is possible to measure gravitational acceleration in multiple directions, so that the posture of the cutting tool 100 can be determined more accurately and the wireless communication unit 30 can be started at a more appropriate timing.

[0186] Moreover, in the cutting tool 100 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure, the control unit 40 determines the attitude of the cutting tool 100, and performs the first start-up control according to the determined attitude.

[0187] With such a configuration, for example, the timing at which the cutting tool 100 assumes a processing posture can be grasped, so that the wireless communication unit 30 in the cutting tool 100 can be started up at a more appropriate timing.

[0188] Moreover, in the cutting tool 100 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure, the postures include a processing posture in which processing is performed by the cutting tool 100, a stop posture in which processing is not performed by the cutting tool 100, and a preparation posture between the processing posture and the stop posture. When the posture of the cutting tool 100 is the preparation posture, the control unit 40 starts up the wireless communication unit 30 as a first start-up control.

[0189] With this configuration, it is possible to secure time for establishing a communication connection between the cutting tool 100 and the management device 200, which is the destination of the measurement information, before the start of processing by the cutting tool 100. Therefore, the management device 200 can more reliably obtain the measurement information at the timing of the start of processing.

[0190] Moreover, the cutting tool 100 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure further includes a measurement sensor 10 of a different type from the acceleration sensor 50. The wireless communication unit 30 transmits information based on the measurement results of the measurement sensor 10. The control unit 40 further performs a second activation control for controlling activation of the measurement sensor 10 based on the measurement results of the acceleration sensor 50.

[0191] In this manner, by performing the second startup control in addition to the first startup control, it is possible to further reduce power consumption.

[0192] Moreover, in the tool system 300 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure, each of the first cutting tool 100 and the second cutting tool 100 includes a cutting insert 1 having a cutting edge, a holder 2 for holding the cutting insert 1, a wireless communication unit 30 for transmitting measurement information based on the measurement results of a sensor attached to each cutting tool 100, an acceleration sensor 50 provided in the holder 2, and a control unit 40 for performing startup control for controlling startup of the wireless communication unit 30 based on the measurement results of the acceleration sensor 50. Moreover, at the timing when the first cutting tool 100 and the second cutting tool 100 change their postures with respect to the workpiece P, the control unit 40 in the first cutting tool 100 and the control unit 40 in the second cutting tool 100 perform startup controls different from each other.

[0193] For example, in order to reduce the consumption of power required for wireless transmission of measurement information, a technique is desired that starts the wireless communication unit 30 at the timing of starting processing. On the other hand, in order to control the start of the wireless communication unit 30 at the timing of starting processing, an input operation by an operator or the installation of an external device for detecting the timing of starting processing is required.

[0194] In response to this, with the above-described configuration, the acceleration sensor 50 mounted on the cutting tool 100 can be used to determine the state of the cutting tool 100. This makes it possible to know the appropriate timing for starting the wireless communication unit 30 in the cutting tool 100, and therefore the wireless communication unit 30 can be started at an appropriate timing without requiring an input operation by an operator or the installation of an external device.

[0195] In addition, by starting the wireless communication unit 30 at an appropriate time, it is possible to reduce the consumption of power required for wireless transmission of measurement information and to suppress an increase in wireless traffic, which is particularly effective in a tool system 300 having multiple cutting tools 100.

[0196] Furthermore, with the above-described configuration, for example, at the timing when machining is performed by the first cutting tool, the wireless communication unit in the first cutting tool can be started and the wireless communication unit in the second cutting tool can be stopped. That is, the control unit in each cutting tool can perform the first start-up control with appropriate content according to the state of each cutting tool.

[0197] Therefore, the tool system 300 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure can achieve superior functionality in a system capable of monitoring the state of the cutting tool 100.

[0198] Moreover, in the tool system 300 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure, the control unit 40 determines the attitude of the cutting tool 100 with respect to the workpiece P, and creates attitude information indicating the determination result. The wireless communication unit 30 transmits measurement information including the attitude information created by the control unit 40. The management device 200 displays content based on the attitude information included in the measurement information received from the wireless communication unit 30.

[0199] With this configuration, the management device 200 can grasp the posture of each cutting tool 100 in addition to the sensor measurement results, so that it is easy to check whether the sensor measurement of the cutting tool 100 during processing is being performed appropriately.

[0200] Further, the communication control method according to the embodiment of the present disclosure is a communication control method in a tool system 300 including a first cutting tool 100 for turning and a second cutting tool 100 for turning. Each of the first cutting tool 100 and the second cutting tool 100 includes a cutting insert 1 having a cutting edge, a holder 2 for holding the cutting insert 1, a wireless communication unit 30 for transmitting information based on the measurement results of a sensor attached to each cutting tool 100, an acceleration sensor 50 provided in the holder 2, and a control unit 40 for performing start-up control for controlling the start-up of the wireless communication unit 30 based on the measurement results of the acceleration sensor 50. In this communication control method, first, the control unit 40 in the first cutting tool 100 acquires the measurement results of the corresponding acceleration sensor 50. Next, the control unit 40 in the second cutting tool 100 acquires the measurement results of the corresponding acceleration sensor 50. Then, the control unit 40 in the first cutting tool 100 and the control unit 40 in the second cutting tool 100 perform start-up control with different contents.

[0201] For example, in order to reduce the consumption of power required for wireless transmission of measurement information, a technique is desired that starts the wireless communication unit 30 at the timing of starting processing. On the other hand, in order to control the start of the wireless communication unit 30 at the timing of starting processing, an input operation by an operator or the installation of an external device for detecting the timing of starting processing is required.

[0202] In response to this, the above-described method can be used to determine the state of the cutting tool 100 using the acceleration sensor 50 mounted on the cutting tool 100. This makes it possible to know the appropriate timing for starting the wireless communication unit 30 in the cutting tool 100, and therefore allows the wireless communication unit 30 to be started at an appropriate timing without requiring an input operation by an operator or the installation of an external device.

[0203] In addition, by starting the wireless communication unit 30 at an appropriate time, it is possible to reduce the consumption of power required for wireless transmission of measurement information and to suppress an increase in wireless traffic, which is particularly effective in a tool system 300 having multiple cutting tools 100.

[0204] Furthermore, by using the above-described method, for example, when machining is performed by the first cutting tool, the wireless communication unit in the first cutting tool can be started and the wireless communication unit in the second cutting tool can be stopped. That is, the control unit in each cutting tool can perform the first start-up control with appropriate content according to the state of each cutting tool.

[0205] Therefore, the communication control method according to the embodiment of the present disclosure can achieve better functionality in a system capable of monitoring the state of the cutting tool 100.

[0206] The above-described embodiments should be considered to be illustrative and not restrictive in all respects. The scope of the present invention is defined by the claims, not the above description, and is intended to include all modifications within the meaning and scope of the claims.

[0207] The above description includes the following additional features. [Appendix 1] A cutting tool for turning, comprising: A cutting insert having a cutting edge; A holder for holding the cutting insert; a wireless communication unit that transmits information based on a measurement result of a sensor attached to the cutting tool; and an acceleration sensor provided in the holder; a control unit that performs a first control to control activation of the wireless communication unit based on a measurement result of the acceleration sensor, The acceleration sensor measures gravitational acceleration applied to the cutting tool, The gravitational acceleration changes depending on the attitude of the cutting tool.

[0208] [Appendix 2] a first cutting tool for turning; and a second cutting tool for turning, Each of the first cutting tool and the second cutting tool includes a cutting insert having a cutting edge, a holder for holding the cutting insert, a wireless communication unit for transmitting measurement information based on a measurement result of a sensor attached to each of the cutting tools, an acceleration sensor provided in the holder, and a control unit for performing startup control for controlling startup of the wireless communication unit based on the measurement result of the acceleration sensor, at a timing when the first cutting tool and the second cutting tool change their postures with respect to a workpiece, the control unit of the first cutting tool and the control unit of the second cutting tool perform the start-up control with contents different from each other; the first cutting tool and the second cutting tool are attached to a turret of a processing machine; The turret rotates for each processing step, A tool system in which the rotation of the turret changes the orientation of the first cutting tool and the orientation of the second cutting tool. [Explanation of symbols]

[0209] 1 Cutting insert 3A,3B Fixing material 2 Holder 10 Measuring Sensor 20 Data Generation Division 30 Wireless Communication Section 40 Control section 50 Acceleration Sensor 51 Motor holder 52 Turret 53 Tool holder 60 batteries 70 Memory section 100 cutting tools 110 Sensor Module 120 Processing machine 200 Management device 201 Wireless base station 300 Tool System

Claims

1. A cutting tool for turning, comprising: A cutting insert having a cutting edge; A holder for holding the cutting insert; a communication unit that transmits information based on a measurement result of a sensor attached to the cutting tool; an acceleration sensor provided in the holder; a control unit that performs first control to control activation of the communication unit based on a measurement result of the acceleration sensor.

2. The cutting tool according to claim 1 , wherein the cutting tool comprises a plurality of the acceleration sensors that measure acceleration in one direction, or a single acceleration sensor that measures acceleration in multiple directions.

3. The cutting tool according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the control unit determines an attitude of the cutting tool with respect to a workpiece, and performs the first control in accordance with the determined attitude.

4. The postures include a processing posture in which processing is performed by the cutting tool, a stop posture in which processing is not performed by the cutting tool, and a preparation posture between the processing posture and the stop posture, The cutting tool according to claim 3 , wherein the control unit activates the communication unit as the first control when the cutting tool is in the preparation posture with respect to the workpiece.

5. The cutting tool further comprises: a measurement sensor of a different type from the acceleration sensor; The communication unit transmits information based on a measurement result of the measurement sensor, The cutting tool according to claim 1 , wherein the control unit further performs a second control of controlling activation of the measurement sensor based on a measurement result of the acceleration sensor.

6. a first cutting tool for turning; and a second cutting tool for turning, Each of the first cutting tool and the second cutting tool includes a cutting insert having a cutting edge, a holder for holding the cutting insert, a communication unit for transmitting measurement information based on a measurement result of a sensor attached to each of the cutting tools, an acceleration sensor provided in the holder, and a control unit for performing startup control for controlling startup of the communication unit based on the measurement result of the acceleration sensor, A tool system in which, when the first cutting tool and the second cutting tool change their postures relative to a workpiece, the control unit of the first cutting tool and the control unit of the second cutting tool perform different startup controls.

7. The tool system further comprises: A management device is provided, the control unit determines a posture of the first cutting tool or the second cutting tool with respect to a workpiece, and creates posture information indicating a result of the determination; The communication unit transmits the measurement information including the posture information created by the control unit, The tool system according to claim 6 , wherein the management device displays content based on the attitude information included in the measurement information received from the communication unit.

8. A communication control method in a tool system including a first cutting tool for turning and a second cutting tool for turning, comprising: Each of the first cutting tool and the second cutting tool includes a cutting insert having a cutting edge, a holder for holding the cutting insert, a communication unit for transmitting information based on a measurement result of a sensor attached to each of the cutting tools, an acceleration sensor provided in the holder, and a control unit for performing startup control for controlling startup of the communication unit based on the measurement result of the acceleration sensor, The control unit of the first cutting tool acquires the measurement result of the corresponding acceleration sensor; The control unit of the second cutting tool acquires the measurement result of the corresponding acceleration sensor; A communication control method comprising a step in which the control unit in the first cutting tool and the control unit in the second cutting tool perform the startup control with different contents from each other.

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