Control unit and machine tool

Abstract

To provide a control unit and a machine tool which can easily set a workpiece fixation condition.SOLUTION: A control unit 301 comprises: a control part 300 which controls first to third workpiece fixation mechanisms 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D, 20, 30A, 30B that fix a workpiece W for processing; a display part 310 which combines the workpiece fixation mechanisms to be operated out of the first to third workpiece fixation mechanisms 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D, 20, 30A, 30B and displays a condition selection image G with which a workpiece fixation condition including an order of the operations can be selected by a worker; and an operation part 320 which performs an operation for setting the workpiece fixation condition after the workpiece fixation condition is selected in such a state that the condition selection image G is displayed by the display part 310. The control part 300 controls the first to third workpiece fixation mechanisms 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D, 20, 30A, 30B along the workpiece fixation condition set by the operation part 320.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a control unit and a machine tool. [Background technology]

[0002] For example, the work clamping jig described in Patent Document 1 includes a positioning mechanism that positions the work on a processing table in the X, Y, and Z directions, and multiple clamps that hold the work horizontally and secure it to the table. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Utility Model Application Publication No. 61-154639 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The configuration described in Patent Document 1 has a plurality of workpiece fixing mechanisms each consisting of a positioning mechanism and a clamp, but it is difficult for an operator to easily set workpiece fixing conditions such as the combination of workpiece fixing mechanisms to be operated among the plurality of workpiece fixing mechanisms and the order in which the plurality of workpiece fixing mechanisms are operated.

[0005] The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and has an object to provide a control unit and a machine tool that can more easily set workpiece fixing conditions. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] In order to achieve the above object, a control unit according to a first aspect of the present invention comprises: Pusher and For processing The pusher is pressed against the workpiece. Fix the workpiece and a drive unit, each of which has a control unit for controlling a plurality of workpiece fastening mechanisms; a combination of the workpiece fastening mechanisms to be operated among the plurality of workpiece fastening mechanisms; and a sequence of operations of the plurality of workpiece fastening mechanisms. Your turn a display unit that displays an image in which an operator can select workpiece fixing conditions including the workpiece fixing conditions, and an operation unit that, while the image is displayed on the display unit, performs an operation to select the workpiece fixing condition and then set the workpiece fixing condition, and the control unit controls the multiple workpiece fixing mechanisms in accordance with the workpiece fixing conditions set by the operation unit.

[0007] In order to achieve the above object, a machine tool according to a second aspect of the present invention comprises the control unit, the plurality of workpiece fixing mechanisms, and a processing section that processes the workpiece fixed by the plurality of workpiece fixing mechanisms. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to the present invention, the workpiece fixing conditions can be set more easily. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] 1 is a front view of a machine tool according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 2] 1 is a plan view of a machine tool according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 3] 1 is a side view of a machine tool according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 4] 5A and 5B are diagrams showing a condition selection image displayed on a display unit according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a plan view of a machine tool according to a modified example of the present invention. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a plan view of a machine tool according to a modified example of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] A control unit and a machine tool according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. As shown in FIG. 1, the machine tool 1 includes a workpiece fixing device 5 that fixes the workpiece W, an air supply unit 90, a control unit 301, and as shown in FIG. 3, a tool spindle 80 that holds a rotary tool 85 that processes the workpiece W. In the following, the directions perpendicular to each other along the front surface (top surface in Figure 1) of the workpiece W fixed by the workpiece fixing device 5 are defined as the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction, and the thickness direction of the fixed workpiece W is defined as the Z-axis direction.

[0011] 3, a rotary tool 85 such as a drill or an end mill is attached to the tool spindle 80, which rotates the attached rotary tool 85. The tool spindle 80 has a built-in motor (not shown) which rotates the attached rotary tool 85.

[0012] 2, the workpiece fastening device 5 fastens the workpiece W in the X-axis direction, the Y-axis direction, and the Z-axis direction. In this example, the workpiece W has a rectangular plate shape and four side surfaces Wa, Wb, Wc, and Wd. The side surfaces Wa and Wc each extend along the X-axis direction, and the side surfaces Wb and Wd each extend along the Y-axis direction. The workpiece W may be a polygonal plate shape other than a rectangle, and may be columnar or rod-shaped instead of being limited to a plate shape. In detail, the workpiece fixing device 5 includes first workpiece fixing mechanisms 10A, 10B, 10C, and 10D, a second workpiece fixing mechanism 20, a third workpiece fixing mechanism 30A and 30B, a plate 60, workpiece stoppers 66a, 66b, and 66c, workpiece support portions 67a, 67b, 67c, and 67d, and a pallet 70 (see FIG. 1).

[0013] As shown in Fig. 1, the pallet 70 supports the plate 60 on its upper side. The pallet 70 has, for example, a rectangular plate shape. As shown in Fig. 2, the first to third workpiece fastening mechanisms 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D, 20, 30A, 30B, workpiece stoppers 66a, 66b, 66c, and workpiece support portions 67a, 67b, 67c, 67d are provided on the upper surface (workpiece placement surface) of the plate 60.

[0014] The workpiece supporting portions 67a, 67b, 67c, and 67d support the underside of the workpiece W. The workpiece supporting portions 67a, 67b, 67c, and 67d are provided at positions facing, in the Z direction, a pusher 13 (described later) of each of the first workpiece fastening mechanisms 10A, 10B, 10C, and 10D, with the workpiece W interposed therebetween. The work stoppers 66a, 66b are positioned opposite the third work fastening mechanisms 30A, 30B in the Y-axis direction so as to cooperate with the third work fastening mechanisms 30A, 30B to sandwich the work W in the Y-axis direction. The work stoppers 66a, 66b are positioned opposite the side surface Wa of the work W. Furthermore, the work stoppers 66a, 66b are aligned along the X-axis direction and disposed on both sides of the first work fastening mechanism 10B in the X-axis direction. The work stopper 66c is positioned opposite the second work fastening mechanism 20 in the X-axis direction so as to cooperate with the second work fastening mechanism 20 to sandwich the work W in the X-axis direction. The work stopper 66c is positioned opposite the side surface Wb of the work W. The workpiece stoppers 66a and 66c are positioned corresponding to the corner between the two side surfaces Wa and Wb of the workpiece W (the lower left corner in FIG. 2).

[0015] 2, the first workpiece fastening mechanisms 10A, 10B, 10C, and 10D fasten the workpiece W in the Z-axis direction by pushing the workpiece W toward the workpiece support portions 67a, 67b, 67c, and 67d. The first workpiece fastening mechanisms 10A and 10B are aligned in the X-axis direction and positioned opposite the side surface Wa of the workpiece W. The first workpiece fastening mechanisms 10C and 10D are aligned in the X-axis direction and positioned opposite the side surface Wc of the workpiece W. The first workpiece fastening mechanisms 10A and 10C are positioned so as to sandwich the workpiece W in the Y-axis direction. The first workpiece fastening mechanisms 10B and 10D are positioned so as to sandwich the workpiece W in the Y-axis direction.

[0016] As shown in FIG. 3, each of the first workpiece fastening mechanisms 10A, 10B, 10C, and 10D includes a pusher 13, a cylinder 11, and an extension portion 12. The cylinder 11 is located on the outer periphery of the workpiece W. The cylinder 11 is equipped with a rod 11a that moves back and forth in the Z-axis direction. The cylinder 11 is an air cylinder that operates by receiving air from an air supply unit 90 (see FIG. 1). The cylinder 11 moves the pusher 13 in the Z-axis direction between a pressing position where it presses the top surface of the workpiece W and a separating position where it is separated from the top surface of the workpiece W. The extension 12 is fixed to the upper end of the rod 11a and extends toward the upper surface of the workpiece W in the Y-axis direction. The pusher 13 is a part that pushes the upper surface of the workpiece W, and is provided at a position on the extension portion 12 that faces the upper surface of the workpiece W. The extension 12 and the pusher 13 move in the Z-axis direction together with the rod 11a.

[0017] 2, the second workpiece fastening mechanism 20 fastens the workpiece W in the X-axis direction by pushing the workpiece W toward the workpiece stopper 66c. In this example, the second workpiece fastening mechanism 20 is provided at an end of the side surface Wd of the workpiece W, in a position aligned with a pusher 13 (described later) of the first workpiece fastening mechanism 10A in the X-axis direction. More specifically, the second workpiece fastening mechanism 20 includes a cylinder 21 and a pusher 23. The pusher 23 is supported by a cylinder 21 so as to be movable in the X-axis direction. The pusher 23 is formed in a substantially cylindrical shape extending in the X-axis direction. The cylinder 21 is an air cylinder that operates by receiving air supplied from an air supply unit 90 (see FIG. 1). The cylinder 21 moves the pusher 23 in the X-axis direction between a pressing position where it presses the side surface Wd of the workpiece W and a separating position where it is separated from the side surface Wd of the workpiece W.

[0018] 2, the third workpiece fastening mechanisms 30A and 30B fasten the workpiece W in the Y-axis direction by pushing the workpiece W toward the workpiece stoppers 66a and 66b. The third workpiece fastening mechanism 30A is provided at a position facing the workpiece stopper 66a in the Y-axis direction, and is located next to the first workpiece fastening mechanism 10D in the X-axis direction. The third workpiece fastening mechanism 30B is provided at a position facing the workpiece stopper 66b in the Y-axis direction, and is located next to the first workpiece fastening mechanism 10C in the X-axis direction. The third workpiece fastening mechanisms 30A and 30B each include a pusher 33 and a cylinder 31. The pusher 33 is supported by a cylinder 31 so as to be movable in the Y-axis direction. The pusher 33 is formed in a generally cylindrical shape extending in the Y-axis direction. The cylinder 31 is an air cylinder that operates by receiving air supplied from an air supply unit 90 (see FIG. 1). The cylinder 31 moves the pusher 33 in the Y-axis direction between a pressing position where it presses the side surface Wc of the workpiece W and a separating position where it is separated from the side surface Wc of the workpiece W.

[0019] 1, the control unit 301 includes a control unit 300, a display unit 310, and an operation unit 320. The control unit 300 controls the workpiece fastening device 5, the air supply unit 90, and the tool spindle 80 (see FIG. 3). The control unit 300 includes, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) (not shown), a memory 305 that stores a program that defines the processing procedures to be performed by the CPU, image data, workpiece fastening conditions, etc., and a timer 307. The operation unit 320 is configured to allow the operator to select and operate various types of information including workpiece fixing conditions, and outputs an operation signal indicating the operation content by the operator to the control unit 300. The operation unit 320 is composed of, for example, a numeric keypad and arrow keys arranged on the keyboard, selection keys arranged corresponding to the screen of the display unit 310, etc. Display unit 310 is an organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) display or a liquid crystal display controlled by control unit 300. After power is applied to machine tool 1, control unit 300 displays condition selection image G on display unit 310 in response to operation unit 320 being operated by the operator. 4(a), the condition selection image G is an image that allows the operator to select workpiece fastening conditions. These workpiece fastening conditions include a combination of the first to third workpiece fastening mechanisms 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D, 20, 30A, and 30B to be operated, the order of operation of the first to third workpiece fastening mechanisms 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D, 20, 30A, and 30B, and the interval time between operations. The condition selection image G includes a motion number input field G1, a motion content display field G2, and an interval time input field G3 as fields corresponding to each step number (STEP No. 1 to No. 20) that indicates the operation sequence under the workpiece fixing conditions. How to input data into the motion number input field G1 and the interval time input field G3 will be described in detail later.

[0020] The condition selection image G also includes an action menu section G4 in which the action contents of the first to third workpiece fixing mechanisms 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D, 20, 30A, and 30B are associated with motion numbers (MOTION No. 1 to No. 16). The action menu section G4 is displayed below the condition selection image G. The action menu section G4 shown in FIG. 4(a) displays "MOTION No. 1 to No. 10" and their corresponding action contents, and the content of the action menu section G4 is switched by inputting an operation to the operation section 320, and "MOTION No. 11 to No. 16" and their corresponding action contents are displayed, as shown in FIG. 4(b). Here, the operation contents corresponding to each motion number (MOTION No. 1 to No. 16) will be explained. "MOTION No. 1" corresponds to "X SIDE 1 CL", and corresponds to the operation of the pusher 23 of the second workpiece fixing mechanism 20 protruding so as to contact the side surface Wd of the workpiece W, as shown in FIG. "MOTION No. 2" corresponds to "X SIDE 1 UCL", and corresponds to the operation of retracting the pusher 23 of the second workpiece fixing mechanism 20 away from the side surface Wd of the workpiece W, as shown in FIG. "MOTION No. 3" corresponds to "X SIDE 2 CL," and "MOTION No. 4" corresponds to "X SIDE 2 UCL." In this example, since there is only one second workpiece fastening mechanism 20, "MOTION No. 3" and "MOTION No. 4" are not used. "MOTION No. 5" corresponds to "Y SIDE 1 CL", and corresponds to the operation in which the pusher 33 of the third workpiece fixing mechanism 30A protrudes so as to contact the side surface Wc of the workpiece W, as shown in Figure 2. "MOTION No. 6" corresponds to "Y SIDE 1 UCL", and corresponds to the operation of retracting the pusher 33 of the third workpiece fixing mechanism 30A away from the side surface Wc of the workpiece W, as shown in Figure 2. "MOTION No. 7" corresponds to "Y SIDE 2 CL", and corresponds to the operation in which the pusher 33 of the third workpiece fixing mechanism 30B protrudes so as to contact the side surface Wc of the workpiece W, as shown in Figure 2. "MOTION No. 8" corresponds to "Y SIDE 2 UCL", and corresponds to the operation of retracting the pusher 33 of the third workpiece fixing mechanism 30B away from the side surface Wc of the workpiece W, as shown in Figure 2. "MOTION No. 9" corresponds to "TOP 1 CL", and corresponds to the operation of lowering the pusher 13 of the first workpiece fixing mechanism 10A so as to contact the top surface of the workpiece W, as shown in FIG. "MOTION No. 10" corresponds to "TOP 1 UCL", and corresponds to the operation of raising the pusher 13 of the first workpiece fixing mechanism 10A so as to separate from the top surface of the workpiece W, as shown in FIG. "MOTION No. 11" corresponds to "TOP 2 CL", and corresponds to the operation of lowering the pusher 13 of the first workpiece fixing mechanism 10B so as to contact the top surface of the workpiece W, as shown in FIG. "MOTION No. 12" corresponds to "TOP 2 UCL", and corresponds to the operation of raising the pusher 13 of the first workpiece fastening mechanism 10B so as to separate from the top surface of the workpiece W, as shown in FIG. "MOTION No. 13" corresponds to "TOP 3 CL", and corresponds to the operation of lowering the pusher 13 of the first workpiece fastening mechanism 10C so as to contact the top surface of the workpiece W, as shown in FIG. "MOTION No. 14" corresponds to "TOP 3 UCL", and corresponds to the operation of raising the pusher 13 of the first workpiece fixing mechanism 10C so as to separate from the top surface of the workpiece W, as shown in FIG. "MOTION No. 15" corresponds to "TOP 4 CL" and corresponds to the operation of lowering the pusher 13 of the first workpiece fixing mechanism 10D so as to contact the top surface of the workpiece W, as shown in FIG. "MOTION No. 16" corresponds to "TOP 4 UCL" and corresponds to the operation of raising the pusher 13 of the first workpiece fixing mechanism 10D so as to separate from the top surface of the workpiece W, as shown in FIG.

[0021] The interval time (DELAY TIME) is input as a numerical value for each step number. In this example, the unit of this numerical value is msec (milliseconds), but this unit can be changed in an image other than the condition selection image G by inputting the value into the operation unit 320. For example, if the interval time (DELAY TIME) corresponding to "STEP No. 1" is set to 200 msec (milliseconds), after the operation corresponding to "STEP No. 1" is completed, the operation corresponding to "STEP No. 2" will start when the interval time of 200 msec has elapsed.

[0022] While viewing the condition selection image G, the operator sets the workpiece fixing conditions by operating the operation unit 320 and inputting the motion number (MOTION No. 1 to No. 16) and interval time (DELAY TIME) for each step number (STEP No. 1 to No. 20). More specifically, the operator first selects the step number to be set by operating the arrow keys (not shown) of the operation unit 320. Then, by operating the numeric keypad (not shown) of the operation unit 320, it becomes possible to align the number input field (input cursor) with the motion number input field G1 or interval time input field G3 corresponding to the selected step number. For example, with the number input field aligned with the motion number input field G1, the user operates a selection key (not shown) of the operation unit 320 corresponding to the motion number to be selected in the action menu section G4, thereby entering the selected motion number into the motion number input field G1. Accordingly, the motion content corresponding to the selected motion number is displayed in the motion content display field G2. Note that, without being limited to this example, the motion number may be entered as a number into the motion number input field G1 by operating the numeric keypad of the operation unit 320. In the example of FIG. 4(a), "STEP No. 1" is selected, the number input field is aligned with the motion number input field G1 corresponding to the selected "STEP No. 1," and "MOTION No. 5" is entered using the selection key or numeric keypad of the operation unit 320. As a result, "5" is displayed in the motion number input field G1 corresponding to "STEP No. 1," and "Y SIDE 1 CLAMP" is displayed in the motion content display field G2. Furthermore, with the number input field aligned with the interval time input field G3, the interval time is input into the interval time input field G3 by inputting a numerical value using the numeric keypad of the operation unit 320. In the example of Fig. 4(a), the number input field is aligned with the interval time input field G3 corresponding to the selected "STEP No. 1," and the numerical value "200" is input using the numeric keypad of the operation unit 320. As a result, "200" is input into the interval time input field G3 corresponding to "STEP No. 1." Thereafter, in the same manner, input is made into the motion number input field G1 and interval time input field G3 corresponding to all step numbers required for the workpiece fixing conditions. When this input is completed, an operation to complete setting of the workpiece fixing conditions is performed via the operation unit 320. When this setting completion operation is performed, the control unit 300 stores the information input into the condition selection image G in the memory 305 as the workpiece fixing conditions.

[0023] The control unit 300 executes the workpiece fixing process in accordance with the workpiece fixing conditions stored in the memory 305. In this workpiece fixing process, the control unit 300 performs a first operation corresponding to a first step (STEP No. 1), and starts measuring time from the completion of this first operation using the timer 307. Then, when the time measured by the timer 307 reaches the interval time (DELAY TIME) corresponding to the first step (STEP No. 1), it starts a second operation corresponding to a second step (STEP No. 2). Thereafter, similarly, the third step and subsequent operations are performed with an interval time (DELAY TIME) between operations.

[0024] Next, we will explain the processing process executed by the control unit 300. During this processing process, the above-mentioned workpiece fastening process is executed. At the start of this processing process, the first to third workpiece fastening mechanisms 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D, 20, 30A, 30B are in an unfastened state in which they do not fasten the workpiece W. First, as shown in Fig. 2, the workpiece W is set on the upper part of the workpiece support portions 67a, 67b, 67c, and 67d. This setting of the workpiece W may be performed by a workpiece supply device such as a workpiece loader (not shown), or may be performed by an operator.

[0025] When the workpiece W is set, the control unit 300 executes the workpiece fastening process described above, thereby fastening the workpiece W by the workpiece fastening device 5 in accordance with the set workpiece fastening conditions. In this example, the workpiece fixing conditions are set as steps 1 to 13, as shown in Fig. 4(a). Each step will be explained below. The first step (STEP No. 1) is a fixing operation (Y SIDE 1 CL) of the workpiece W by the third workpiece fixing mechanism 30A corresponding to "MOTION No. 5." In this first step, as shown in FIG. 2, the control unit 300 pushes the side surface Wc of the workpiece W with the pusher 33 via the cylinder 31 of the third workpiece fixing mechanism 30A.

[0026] The second step (STEP No. 2) is a fixing operation (Y SIDE 2 CL) of the workpiece W by the third workpiece fixing mechanism 30B, which corresponds to "MOTION No. 7." In this second step, as shown in FIG. 2, the control unit 300 pushes the side surface Wc of the workpiece W with the pusher 33 via the cylinder 31 of the third workpiece fixing mechanism 30B. Through the above-described first and second steps, the workpiece W is fixed in the Y-axis direction.

[0027] The third step (STEP No. 3) is a fixing operation (X SIDE 1 CL) of the workpiece W by the second workpiece fixing mechanism 20 corresponding to "MOTION No. 1." In this third step, as shown in FIG. 2, the control unit 300 pushes the side surface Wd of the workpiece W with the pusher 23 via the cylinder 21 of the second workpiece fixing mechanism 20. By the third step, the workpiece W is fixed in the X-axis direction.

[0028] The fourth step (STEP No. 4) is an operation (Y SIDE 1 UCL) of releasing the fixation of the workpiece W by the third workpiece fastening mechanism 30A, which corresponds to "MOTION No. 6." In this fourth step, as shown in FIG. 2, the control unit 300 moves the pusher 33 away from the side surface Wc of the workpiece W via the cylinder 31 of the third workpiece fastening mechanism 30A.

[0029] The fifth step (STEP No. 5) is an operation (Y SIDE 2 UCL) of releasing the fixation of the workpiece W by the third workpiece fastening mechanism 30B, which corresponds to "MOTION No. 8." In this fifth step, as shown in FIG. 2, the control unit 300 moves the pusher 33 away from the side surface Wc of the workpiece W via the cylinder 31 of the third workpiece fastening mechanism 30B. By the fourth and fifth steps described above, the workpiece W is released from fixation in the Y-axis direction.

[0030] The sixth step (STEP No. 6) is an operation (X SIDE 1 UCL) of releasing the fixation of the workpiece W by the second workpiece fastening mechanism 20, which corresponds to "MOTION No. 2." In this sixth step, as shown in FIG. 2, the control unit 300 moves the pusher 23 away from the side surface Wd of the workpiece W via the cylinder 21 of the second workpiece fastening mechanism 20. In the sixth step, the fixation of the workpiece W in the X-axis direction is released.

[0031] The seventh step (STEP No. 7) has the same operation as the first step (STEP No. 1), the eighth step (STEP No. 8) has the same operation as the second step (STEP No. 2), and the ninth step (STEP No. 9) has the same operation as the third step (STEP No. 3). In this way, by releasing the fixation of the workpiece W in the X-axis and Y-axis directions and then fixing the workpiece W in the X-axis and Y-axis directions again, the tilt of the workpiece W is eliminated and it becomes possible to fix the workpiece W in the correct posture.

[0032] The tenth step (STEP No. 10) is a fixing operation (TOP 1 CL) of the workpiece W by the first workpiece fixing mechanism 10A corresponding to "MOTION No. 9." In this tenth step, as shown in FIG. 2, the control unit 300 pushes the top surface of the workpiece W with the pusher 13 via the cylinder 11 of the first workpiece fixing mechanism 10A. The eleventh step (STEP No. 11) is a fixing operation (TOP 2 CL) of the workpiece W by the first workpiece fixing mechanism 10B corresponding to "MOTION No. 11." In this eleventh step, as shown in FIG. 2, the control unit 300 pushes the top surface of the workpiece W with the pusher 13 via the cylinder 11 of the first workpiece fixing mechanism 10B. The twelfth step (STEP No. 12) is a fixing operation (TOP 3 CL) of the workpiece W by the first workpiece fixing mechanism 10C corresponding to "MOTION No. 13." In this twelfth step, as shown in FIG. 2, the control unit 300 pushes the top surface of the workpiece W with the pusher 13 via the cylinder 11 of the first workpiece fixing mechanism 10C. The thirteenth step (STEP No. 13) is a fixing operation (TOP 4 CL) of the workpiece W by the first workpiece fixing mechanism 10D, which corresponds to "MOTION No. 15." In this thirteenth step, as shown in FIG. 2, the control unit 300 pushes the top surface of the workpiece W with the pusher 13 via the cylinder 11 of the first workpiece fixing mechanism 10D. Through the above-described tenth to thirteenth steps, the workpiece W is fixed in the Z-axis direction. The interval times corresponding to steps 1 to 3 and steps 7 to 9 relating to fixing the workpiece W in the X-axis and Y-axis directions are set to 200 msec, the interval times corresponding to steps 4 to 6 relating to releasing the fixation of the workpiece W in the X-axis and Y-axis directions are set to 100 msec, and the interval times corresponding to steps 10 to 13 relating to fixing the workpiece W in the Z-axis direction are set to 300 msec. This completes the workpiece fixing process.

[0033] Next, the control unit 300 uses the rotary tool 85 attached to the tool spindle 80 to machine the workpiece W fixed to the workpiece fastening device 5. After the machining of the workpiece W is completed, the fixation of the workpiece W by the first to third workpiece fastening mechanisms 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D, 20, 30A, and 30B is released. Then, the machined workpiece W is discharged by a workpiece discharging device or the operator. This completes the machining process. The machining process is repeated every time a workpiece W is supplied.

[0034] (effect) According to the embodiment described above, the following effects are achieved. (1) The control unit 301 includes a control unit 300 that controls the first to third workpiece fastening mechanisms 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D, 20, 30A, and 30B, which are examples of multiple workpiece fastening mechanisms that fasten the workpiece W for processing; a display unit 310 that displays a condition selection image G that allows an operator to select workpiece fastening conditions, including a combination of workpiece fastening mechanisms to be operated among the first to third workpiece fastening mechanisms 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D, 20, 30A, and 30B, and the order of operation of the first to third workpiece fastening mechanisms 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D, 20, 30A, and 30B; and an operation unit 320 that, while the condition selection image G is displayed on the display unit 310, selects a workpiece fastening condition and then performs an operation to set the workpiece fastening condition. The control unit 300 controls the first to third workpiece fastening mechanisms 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D, 20, 30A, and 30B in accordance with the workpiece fastening conditions set by the operation unit 320. According to this configuration, the worker can set the workpiece fixing conditions more easily by operating the operation unit 320 while looking at the condition selection image G displayed on the display unit 310. Therefore, even a worker without special skills can change the workpiece fixing conditions. For example, if a problem occurs in fixing the workpiece W during processing of the workpiece W, By changing the workpiece fixing conditions, it becomes possible to quickly respond to problems. Furthermore, if the workpiece W cannot be properly fixed due to its shape or material, the workpiece fixing conditions can be changed to achieve fixation suitable for the workpiece W.

[0035] (2) The condition selection image G is displayed in a field corresponding to the step number (STEP No. 1 to No. 20) indicating the operation sequence under the workpiece fixing conditions, allowing a motion number (MOTION No. 1 to No. 16) to be input as information corresponding to the operation content of any of the first to third workpiece fixing mechanisms 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D, 20, 30A, and 30B through operation on the operation unit 320. With this configuration, the worker can easily set the workpiece fixing conditions by simply looking at the condition selection image G and inputting the motion number (MOTION No. 1 to No. 16) corresponding to the step number (STEP No. 1 to No. 20).

[0036] (3) The workpiece fastening conditions include an interval time between operations when any two of the first to third workpiece fastening mechanisms 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D, 20, 30A, and 30B are operated in sequence. According to this configuration, the interval time can be easily changed, and the workpiece W can be fixed in a manner suitable for the workpiece W.

[0037] (4) The machine tool 1 includes a control unit 301, first to third workpiece fixing mechanisms 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D, 20, 30A, and 30B, and a tool spindle 80, which is an example of a machining unit that machines the workpiece W fixed by the first to third workpiece fixing mechanisms 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D, 20, 30A, and 30B. According to this configuration, by changing the workpiece fixing conditions to those suitable for the workpiece W, high-precision machining can be performed with the workpiece W properly fixed.

[0038] The present disclosure is not limited to the above-described embodiments and drawings. Modifications (including deletion of components) may be made as appropriate within the scope of the present disclosure. An example of such a modification is described below.

[0039] (Variation) In the above embodiment, the positions of the first to third workpiece fastening mechanisms 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D, 20, 30A, and 30B can be changed. Furthermore, at least one of the first to third workpiece fastening mechanisms 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D, 20, 30A, and 30B may be omitted, or a workpiece fastening mechanism other than the first to third workpiece fastening mechanisms 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D, 20, 30A, and 30B may be provided. For example, the first work fastening mechanism 10D may be omitted from the four first work fastening mechanisms 10A, 10B, 10C, and 10D, and the number of first work fastening mechanisms may be reduced to three, as shown in Fig. 5. This allows the work W to be supported at three points in the Z-axis direction, making it possible to more stably fasten the work W. In the example of Fig. 5, the first work fastening mechanism 10C is located at the center of the side surface Wc of the work W in the X-axis direction. Furthermore, for example, the third workpiece fastening mechanism 30B of the two third workpiece fastening mechanisms 30A and 30B may be omitted as shown in Fig. 6. In the example of Fig. 6, the third workpiece fastening mechanism 30A is located at the center in the X-axis direction of the side surface Wc of the workpiece W, and the first workpiece fastening mechanism 10B is omitted. Furthermore, the positions or numbers of the work stoppers 66a, 66b, and 66c and the work support portions 67a, 67b, 67c, and 67d can be changed as appropriate. Furthermore, the pushers 13, 23, and 33 of the first to third workpiece fixing mechanisms 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D, 20, 30A, and 30B are driven by air cylinders, but they may be driven by fluid cylinders other than air cylinders, such as hydraulic cylinders, or may be driven by actuators such as motors or solenoids. As described above, suitable workpiece fastening conditions change depending on the positions and shapes of the first to third workpiece fastening mechanisms 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D, 20, 30A, 30B, etc., but these suitable workpiece fastening conditions can be easily set.

[0040] In the above embodiment, the cylinders 11, 21, and 31 can be operated independently of each other, but any two or more of the cylinders 11, 21, and 31 may be operated synchronously. Furthermore, the method of fixing the workpiece W by the first to third workpiece fixing mechanisms 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D, 20, 30A, and 30B can be changed. Furthermore, the contents or order of the first to thirteenth steps exemplified in the above embodiment can be changed. For example, the order of the first and second steps may be reversed depending on the shape of the workpiece W. Furthermore, in the above embodiment, when the workpiece W is processed, the workpiece W is fixed by the first to third workpiece fixing mechanisms 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D, 20, 30A, and 30B, but if a tool or the like interferes with each pusher 13, 23, or 33 and hinders the processing of the workpiece W, any of the pushers 13, 23, or 33 may be retracted relative to the workpiece W.

[0041] The positions or the number of the cylinders 11, 21, 31 in the above embodiment can be changed as appropriate. For example, although the cylinders 11 of the first workpiece fastening mechanisms 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D are arranged on the outer periphery of the workpiece W, this is not limiting and they may be arranged on the upper surface side of the workpiece W. In this case, the cylinders 11 push the upper surface of the workpiece W from above via the pushers 13, so that tilting of the workpiece W can be suppressed even if the workpiece W is lightweight.

[0042] In the above embodiment, the pallet 70 has, for example, a rectangular plate shape, but may be formed in a polygonal shape other than a rectangle or a circle. Similarly, the plate 60 is not limited to a rectangular plate shape and may be formed in a polygonal shape other than a rectangle or a circle.

[0043] In the above embodiment, the step numbers indicating the operation order in the condition selection image G were 20 (No. 1 to No. 20), but are not limited to 20. In the above embodiment, the workpiece fixing conditions include the operation order and the interval time, but either the operation order or the interval time may be omitted, or another condition may be newly included.

[0044] In the above embodiment, the control unit 300, the display unit 310 and the operation unit 320 are pre-installed in the machine tool 1, but this is not limiting and they may be a personal computer or information terminal separate from the existing machine tool.

[0045] In the above embodiment, after fixing the workpiece W in the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis directions, the control unit 300 may check whether the workpiece W is seated on the workpiece stoppers 66a, 66b, and 66c and the workpiece support portions 67a, 67b, 67c, and 67d using a seating confirmation means. This seating confirmation means causes a fluid such as air to flow toward the workpiece W from each of the workpiece stoppers 66a, 66b, and 66c and the workpiece support portions 67a, 67b, 67c, and 67d. The control unit 300 determines that the workpiece W is seated when there is no leakage of this fluid, and determines that the workpiece W is not seated when there is leakage of this fluid. When the control unit 300 determines that the workpiece W is not seated, it notifies the operator through notification means such as an alarm or image display. The seating confirmation means may be a sensor that detects whether or not the workpiece W is in contact with the workpiece stoppers 66a, 66b, 66c and the workpiece support portions 67a, 67b, 67c, 67d.

[0046] In the above embodiment, the operation unit 320 is configured separately from the display unit 310, but this is not limiting and the operation unit 320 may be included in the display unit 310. In this case, the operation unit 320 may have a touch sensor that detects a touch operation on the screen of the display unit 310. This allows the worker to, for example, select the position of the number input field in the condition selection image G or select a motion number in the action menu section G4 by touching the screen of the display unit 310. [Explanation of symbols]

[0047] 1...machine tool, 5...workpiece fixing device, 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D...first workpiece fixing mechanism, 11, 21, 31...cylinder, 11a...rod, 12...extension portion, 13, 23, 33...pusher, 20...second workpiece fixing mechanism, 30A, 30B...third workpiece fixing mechanism, 60...plate, 66a, 66b, 66c...workpiece stopper, 67a, 67b, 67c, 67d...workpiece support portion, 70...pallet, 80...tool spindle, 85...rotary tool, 90...air supply unit, 300...control section, 301...control unit, 305...memory, 307...timer, 310...display section, 320...operation section, G...condition selection image, G1...motion number input field, G2...motion content display field, G3...interval time input field, G4...operation menu section, W...workpiece, Wa, Wb, Wc, Wd...side surface

Claims

1. A control unit that controls a plurality of workpiece fixing mechanisms, each of which has a pusher and a drive unit that presses the pusher against a workpiece to fix the workpiece for processing; a display unit that displays an image that allows an operator to select a combination of workpiece fastening mechanisms to be operated among the plurality of workpiece fastening mechanisms and a workpiece fastening condition including an operation order of the plurality of workpiece fastening mechanisms; an operation unit that selects the workpiece fastening conditions and then performs an operation to set the workpiece fastening conditions while the image is displayed by the display unit, the control unit controls the plurality of workpiece fastening mechanisms in accordance with the workpiece fastening conditions set by the operation unit. Control unit.

2. the image is displayed in a manner that allows information corresponding to the operation content of the workpiece fastening mechanism to be input through an operation on the operation unit in a field corresponding to a step number indicating the operation sequence under the workpiece fastening conditions. The control unit of claim 1 .

3. the workpiece fastening conditions include an interval time between operations when any two of the plurality of workpiece fastening mechanisms are operated in sequence; 3. A control unit according to claim 1 or 2.

4. A control unit according to any one of claims 1 to 3; the plurality of workpiece fixing mechanisms; a processing unit that processes the workpiece fixed by the plurality of workpiece fixing mechanisms, Machine tools.

Images