Information processing device, design support method, and design support program

Abstract

To provide a technique for warning of the possibility of a machining abnormality occurring at the stage of designing a machining program. [Solution] The information processing device includes a display and a control unit. The control unit executes processing to display a design support screen for a machining program on the display. The design support screen is configured to accept an operation to set the shape of a raw material workpiece before machining, an operation to select one or more machining items from a plurality of machining items each associated with a different machining command, and an operation to specify the execution order for the selected machining items selected by the selection operation. The control unit executes processing to estimate the shape of the workpiece when the machining commands associated with each selected machining item are executed on the raw material workpiece in the execution order, calculate an evaluation value indicating the asymmetry of the workpiece, and display a warning on the display if the evaluation value satisfies a predetermined abnormal condition.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an information processing device, a design support method, and a design support program. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Publication No. 4807665 (Patent Document 1) discloses "a lathe with a bar work supply means that can improve machining speed by utilizing the phenomenon that the influence of eccentricity and the like decreases as the remaining length of the bar work becomes shorter." [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Patent No. 4807665 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The lathe with a bar work supply means disclosed in Patent Document 1 controls the machining speed so as to suppress the influence of eccentricity of the bar work. This control is performed while the machining program is being executed. In other words, this lathe with a bar work supply means does not provide advance warning of whether or not a machining abnormality will occur during the design stage of the machining program.

[0005] The present invention has been made in view of the above-mentioned problems, and an object of the present invention in one aspect is to provide a technique for warning of the possibility of a machining abnormality occurring at the stage of designing a machining program. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] In one example of the present disclosure, an information processing device is provided. The information processing device includes a display and a control unit. The control unit executes a process of displaying a design support screen of a machining program on the display. The design support screen is configured to accept an operation of setting the shape of a raw material workpiece before machining, an operation of selecting one or more machining items from a plurality of machining items each associated with a different machining command, and an operation of specifying an execution order for the selected machining items selected by the selection operation. The control unit executes a process of estimating the shape of the workpiece when the machining commands associated with each of the selected machining items are executed on the raw material workpiece in the execution order, calculating an evaluation value indicating the asymmetry of the workpiece, and a process of displaying a warning on the display if the evaluation value satisfies a predetermined abnormal condition.

[0007] In one example of the present disclosure, the plurality of machining items include a first machining item associated with a turning machining command that brings a tool into contact with a rotating workpiece, and the control unit displays the warning when the evaluation value satisfies the predetermined abnormal condition and the first machining item is included in the selection targets.

[0008] In one example of the present disclosure, the plurality of machining items include a second machining item associated with a milling machining command that brings a rotating tool into contact with a workpiece. The control unit displays the warning when the evaluation value satisfies the predetermined abnormal condition, the first machining item and the second machining item are included in the selection targets, and the execution order is specified so that the machining related to the first machining item is executed after the machining related to the second machining item.

[0009] In one example of the present disclosure, the warning includes a message prompting the user to change the rotation speed of the workpiece related to the turning machining command.

[0010] In one example of the present disclosure, the evaluation value is the distance between the center of gravity of the workpiece before the turning command is executed and the rotation axis of the workpiece when the turning command is executed.

[0011] Another example of the present disclosure provides a design support method executed by an information processing device to support the design of a machining program. The design support method includes a step of displaying a design support screen for a machining program on a display. The design support screen is configured to accept an operation of setting the shape of a raw material workpiece before machining, an operation of selecting one or more machining items from a plurality of machining items each associated with a different machining command, and an operation of specifying an execution order for the selected machining items selected by the selection operation. The design support method further includes a step of estimating the shape of the workpiece when the machining commands associated with each of the selected machining items are executed on the raw material workpiece in the execution order, and calculating an evaluation value indicating the asymmetry of the workpiece, and a step of displaying a warning on the display if the evaluation value satisfies a predetermined abnormal condition.

[0012] In another example of the present disclosure, a design support program for supporting the design of a machining program is provided. The design support program causes a computer to execute a process of displaying a design support screen for the machining program on a display. The design support screen is configured to accept an operation of setting the shape of a raw material workpiece before machining, an operation of selecting one or more machining items from a plurality of machining items each associated with a different machining command, and an operation of specifying an execution order for the selected machining items selected by the selection operation. The design support program further causes the computer to execute a process of estimating the shape of the workpiece when the machining commands associated with each of the selected machining items are executed on the raw material workpiece in the execution order, calculating an evaluation value indicating the asymmetry of the workpiece, and a process of displaying a warning on the display if the evaluation value satisfies a predetermined abnormal condition.

[0013] The above and other objects, features, aspects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description of the invention taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0014] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a device configuration of a processing system. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of an information processing device. [Figure 3] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a device configuration of a machine tool. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a design process of a machining program. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram showing an example of a flow of a design process of a machining program. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a design support screen for material work information. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a design support screen as an initial screen. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a selection screen for processing items. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a processing item database. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a design support screen on which processing items are set. [Figure 11] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of a data structure of setting information. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a display mode of a design support screen. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a method for calculating an eccentricity evaluation value. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining another example of a method for calculating an eccentricity evaluation value. [Figure 15] FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a warning display process. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0015] Hereinafter, each embodiment according to the present invention will be described while referring to the drawings. In the following description, the same parts and components are denoted by the same reference numerals. Their names and functions are also the same. Therefore, detailed descriptions thereof will not be repeated. Note that each embodiment and each modification described below may be selectively combined as appropriate.

[0016] <A. Processing System 500> Referring to FIG. 1, a processing system 500 according to an embodiment will be described. FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the device configuration of the processing system 500.

[0017] As shown in FIG. 1, the processing system 500 includes an information processing apparatus 100 and a machine tool 200.

[0018] The information processing apparatus 100 is a notebook or desktop PC (Personal Computer), a tablet terminal, a smartphone, or other computer having a communication function. The number of information processing apparatuses 100 constituting the processing system 500 may be one or two or more.

[0019] The information processing apparatus 100 has a function for assisting in the design of a machining program related to the machine tool 200. The design of the machining program is realized using design support software. The designer designs a machining program using the design support software and transmits the designed machining program to the machine tool 200. Details of the machining program design support function will be described later.

[0020] As used in this specification, the “machine tool” is a concept including various apparatuses having a function of machining a workpiece. The machine tool 200 may be a horizontal machining center or a vertical machining center. Alternatively, the machine tool 200 may be a lathe, or other cutting machine, grinding machine, compound machining machine, 5-axis machining machine, or the like. Further, the machine tool 200 is not limited to one that performs only removal machining. The machine tool 200 may perform additional machining in addition to removal machining.

[0021] The information processing apparatus 100 and the machine tool 200 are configured to be able to exchange data by some means. As an example, the information processing apparatus 100 and the machine tool 200 are connected to a network, and data is exchanged via the network. In other aspects, data exchange may be performed via a storage medium such as a USB (Universal Serial Bus), or may be performed via an external terminal such as a cloud service or a server.

[0022] <B. Hardware Configuration> Next, referring to FIG. 2, the hardware configuration of the information processing apparatus 100 shown in FIG. 1 will be described. FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the information processing apparatus 100.

[0023] The information processing apparatus 100 includes a control device 101, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 102, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 103, a communication interface 104, a display interface 105, an input interface 107, and an auxiliary storage device 120. These components are connected to a bus 110.

[0024] The control device 101 (control unit) is constituted by, for example, at least one integrated circuit. The integrated circuit is constituted by, for example, at least one CPU (Central Processing Unit), at least one GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), at least one ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), at least one FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array), or a combination thereof.

[0025] The control device 101 controls the operation of the information processing device 100 by executing various programs such as a design support program 122. The design support program 122 is a program for supporting the design of the machining program 123. The machining program 123 is a program for controlling the above-mentioned machine tool 200.

[0026] Upon receiving an execution command for each program, the control device 101 reads the program from the auxiliary storage device 120 or the ROM 102 into the RAM 103. The RAM 103 functions as a working memory and temporarily stores various data required for executing the various programs.

[0027] A LAN (Local Area Network), an antenna, etc. are connected to communication interface 104. Information processing device 100 exchanges data with external devices via communication interface 104. Examples of such external devices include the above-mentioned machine tool 200 and a server.

[0028] A display 106 is connected to the display interface 105. The display interface 105 sends an image signal for displaying an image to the display 106 in accordance with a command from the control device 101 or the like. The display 106 is, for example, a liquid crystal display, an organic EL (Electro Luminescence) display, or other display device. The display 106 may be configured integrally with the information processing device 100 or may be configured separately from the information processing device 100.

[0029] An input device 108 is connected to the input interface 107. The input device 108 is, for example, a mouse, a keyboard, a touch panel, or any other device capable of receiving user operations. The input device 108 may be configured integrally with the information processing device 100, or may be configured separately from the information processing device 100.

[0030] The auxiliary storage device 120 is, for example, a hard disk, a flash memory, an SSD (Solid State Drive), and other storage media. The auxiliary storage device 120 stores a design support program 122, a machining program 123, a three-dimensional model 124 described later, a machining item database 126 described later, setting information 128 described later, and the like. These storage locations are not limited to the auxiliary storage device 120 and may be stored in a storage area of the control device 101 (for example, a cache memory), the ROM 102, the RAM 103, an external device, or the like.

[0031] Note that the design support program 122 may be provided not as a single program but as a part incorporated into an arbitrary program. In this case, various processes defined in the design support program 122 are realized in cooperation with an arbitrary program. Even a program that does not include such a part of the module does not deviate from the spirit of the design support program 122 according to the present embodiment. Furthermore, part or all of the functions provided by the design support program 122 may be realized by dedicated hardware. Furthermore, the information processing apparatus 100 may be configured in a form such as a so-called cloud service in which at least one server executes part of the processing of the design support program 122.

[0032] <C. Device Configuration of Machine Tool 200> Next, referring to FIG. 3, the device configuration of the machine tool 200 will be described. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the device configuration of the machine tool 200.

[0033] The machine tool 200 is, for example, a composite machining machine having a turning function of machining a workpiece by bringing a tool into contact with a rotating workpiece and a milling function of machining a workpiece by bringing a rotating tool into contact with a workpiece.

[0034] The machine tool 200 as a composite machining machine has, for example, a bed 95, a workpiece spindle 210, an opposing workpiece spindle 220, a tool spindle 230, and a tool post 250.

[0035] For ease of explanation, hereinafter, the direction parallel to the rotation axis AX1 of the workpiece spindle 210 or the rotation axis AX2 of the counter workpiece spindle 220 will also be referred to as the "Z-axis direction." One side in the Z-axis direction will also be referred to as the "Z-axis positive side," and the other side in the Z-axis direction will also be referred to as the "Z-axis negative side." In the example of FIG. 3, the right side when viewing the machining area AR from the front of the machine tool 200 corresponds to the "Z-axis positive side." In the example of FIG. 3, the left side when viewing the machining area AR from the front of the machine tool 200 corresponds to the "Z-axis negative side."

[0036] Furthermore, one direction on a horizontal plane perpendicular to the Z-axis direction is also referred to as the "Y-axis direction." One side in the Y-axis direction is also referred to as the "Y-axis positive side," and the other side in the Y-axis direction is also referred to as the "Y-axis negative side." In the example of FIG. 3, the far side when viewing the machining area AR from the front of the machine tool 200 corresponds to the "Y-axis positive side." In the example of FIG. 3, the near side when viewing the machining area AR from the front of the machine tool 200 corresponds to the "Y-axis negative side."

[0037] Furthermore, the direction perpendicular to both the Y-axis direction and the Z-axis direction is referred to as the "X-axis direction." One side of the X-axis direction is also referred to as the "X-axis positive side," and the other side of the X-axis direction is also referred to as the "X-axis negative side." In the example of FIG. 3, the direction of gravity corresponds to the "X-axis positive side." In the example of FIG. 3, the skyward direction corresponds to the "X-axis negative side."

[0038] Bed 95 is a base member for supporting various devices provided within machine tool 200. In the example of Fig. 3, bed 95 supports work spindle 210, counter work spindle 220, tool spindle 230, and tool rest 250. Bed 95 is installed on the floor of a factory or the like. Bed 95 is made of metal such as cast iron.

[0039] The work spindle 210 is configured to be rotatable while holding the workpiece W. More specifically, the work spindle 210 is provided with a first chuck mechanism 212. The first chuck mechanism 212 is a mechanism for fixing the workpiece W to the work spindle 210. The work spindle 210 is also configured to be rotatable about a rotation axis AX1 that extends along its axial direction.

[0040] The counter work spindle 220 rotates the workpiece W while supporting it from the side opposite to the workpiece spindle 210. More specifically, the counter work spindle 220 is configured to be movable in the Z-axis direction by various drive mechanisms such as a motor, and supports the workpiece W from the side opposite to the workpiece spindle 210. The counter work spindle 220 is also provided with a second chuck mechanism 222. The second chuck mechanism 222 is a mechanism for fixing the workpiece W to the counter work spindle 220. Furthermore, the counter work spindle 220 is configured to be rotatable about a rotation axis AX2 along its axial direction.

[0041] The tool spindle 230 is provided at a higher position than the workpiece spindle 210 and the counter workpiece spindle 220. The tool spindle 230 is configured to be rotatable while holding a tool T. The tool spindle 230 is also configured to be movable in the X-axis direction, Y-axis direction, and Z-axis direction by various drive mechanisms such as a motor. The tool spindle 230 performs milling by bringing the rotating tool T into contact with a workpiece W fixed to the workpiece spindle 210.

[0042] The tool rest 250 has a turret 252. The turret 252 is configured to be rotatable about an axis AX3 that is parallel to the Z-axis direction. The turret 252 holds a plurality of tools spaced apart in the circumferential direction around the axis AX3. The tool rest 250 is also configured to be movable in the X-axis and Y-axis directions by various drive mechanisms such as motors. The tool rest 250 performs turning by bringing a fixed tool held by the turret 252 into contact with the workpiece W that is rotationally driven by the workpiece spindle 210.

[0043] <D. Summary> As described above, the information processing apparatus 100 has a function for assisting in the design of the machining program of the machine tool 200. Hereinafter, referring to FIG. 4, the outline of the machining program design support function will be described. FIG. 4 is a diagram schematically showing an example of the machining program design process.

[0044] In step S1, the information processing apparatus 100 acquires a three-dimensional model 124 representing the shape of the raw material work W0 before machining. The data format of the three-dimensional model 124 is arbitrary. As an example, the three-dimensional model 124 may be a wireframe model in which the three-dimensional shape is defined by a combination of points and lines, a surface model in which the three-dimensional shape is defined by a combination of surfaces, or a space lattice model in which information indicating the presence or absence or type of an object is associated with each coordinate value in three dimensions.

[0045] In step S2, the information processing apparatus 100 receives an operation of selecting one or more machining items from a plurality of predetermined machining items 322. Different machining commands are associated in advance with each of the plurality of machining items 322. The correspondence between the machining item 322 and the machining command is defined, for example, in the machining item database 126. The designer can design the machining program of the work by combining various machining items 322 defined in the machining item database 126 in an arbitrary order.

[0046] Furthermore, the information processing apparatus 100 receives an operation of designating an execution order for the machining item 322 to be selected by the selection operation. The execution order is specified, for example, by the order of the machining items 322. The information processing apparatus 100 stores the combination of the machining items 322 and the execution order as setting information 128. Thus, the designer can design the machining program by designating an arbitrary combination of machining items 322 in an arbitrary order.

[0047] In step S3, the setting information 128 by the designer is displayed on the design support screen 300. When there is an abnormality in the machining program being designed, the information processing apparatus 100 according to the embodiment displays a warning WR on the design support screen 300.

[0048] More specifically, the information processing apparatus 100 estimates the shape of the workpiece W1 when executing the machining commands associated with the machining items 322 included in the setting information 128 in the execution order specified in the setting information 128, and calculates an evaluation value indicating the asymmetry of the workpiece W1 (hereinafter, also referred to as "eccentricity evaluation value"). When the eccentricity evaluation value satisfies a predetermined abnormal condition, the information processing apparatus 100 displays a warning WR on the display 106. On the other hand, when the eccentricity evaluation value does not satisfy the predetermined abnormal condition, the information processing apparatus 100 does not display a warning WR on the display 106.

[0049] By displaying the warning WR, the designer can notice at the stage of designing the machining program that there may be machining abnormalities associated with the eccentricity of the workpiece, and can correct the machining program before execution. The warning WR is particularly effective when the machining program being designed includes a machining command involving rotation of the workpiece W.

[0050] <E. Design process of machining program> Hereinafter, a specific example of the design process of the machining program will be described with reference to FIGS. 5 to 11. FIG. 5 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the flow of the design process of the machining program.

[0051] In step S110, it is assumed that the designer performs an operation of displaying the setting screen of the raw material workpiece W0 on the information processing apparatus 100. In this case, in step S112, the information processing apparatus 100 displays the design support screen 300A shown in FIG. 6 on the display 106 (see FIG. 2).

[0052] 6 is a diagram showing an example of a design support screen 300A for raw workpiece information. The design support screen 300A is configured to accept settings related to the shape of the raw workpiece W0 before machining. As an example, the design support screen 300A includes an input field 302, a display field 304, a cancel button 306, and a setting button 308.

[0053] The input field 302 receives input of information related to the raw workpiece W0. As an example, the input field 302 is made up of input fields 302A to 302F.

[0054] The input field 302A is configured to receive information related to the material of the raw workpiece W0. More specifically, the input field 302A is provided with an expand button. When the expand button is pressed, options related to the material of the workpiece are expanded. The designer can select any material from the expanded options.

[0055] The input field 302B is configured to receive information related to the shape of the raw workpiece W0. More specifically, an expansion button is provided in the input field 302B. When the expansion button is pressed, options related to the shape of the raw workpiece W0 are expanded. The shape information selectable in the input field 302B corresponds to the shape information displayed in the display field 304. That is, in the example of FIG. 6, the designer can select from the options indicating "1: Bar material," "2: Formed material," "3: Stepped material," and "4: Any material."

[0056] The information that can be input into the input fields 302C to 302F varies depending on the workpiece shape selected in the input field 302B.

[0057] As an example, when "1: Bar stock" is selected in input field 302B, the outer diameter of the bar-shaped raw workpiece W0 is received in input field 302C. The inner diameter of the bar-shaped raw workpiece W0 is received in input field 302D. The width in the longitudinal direction (total length) of the bar-shaped raw workpiece W0 is received in input field 302E. The maximum rotational speed of the workpiece spindle 210 during turning of the raw workpiece W0 is received in input field 302F.

[0058] When the cancel button 306 is pressed, the information processing apparatus 100 discards the information input on the design support screen 300A and closes the design support screen 300A.

[0059] On the other hand, when the setting button 308 is pressed, the information processing device 100 generates a three-dimensional model 124 (see FIG. 2) of the raw workpiece W0 based on the information input to the design support screen 300A.

[0060] 5, it is assumed that the setting button 308 is pressed in step S114. In this case, in step S116, the information processing device 100 generates a three-dimensional model 124 of the raw workpiece W0 based on the information input to the design support screen 300A. The generated three-dimensional model 124 is stored in, for example, the auxiliary storage device 120 of the information processing device 100.

[0061] Next, in step S118, it is assumed that the designer performs a display operation of the design support screen of the machining program on the information processing device 100. In this case, in step S120, the information processing device 100 displays a design support screen 300B shown in Fig. 7 on the display 106. Fig. 7 is a diagram showing an example of the design support screen 300B as an initial screen.

[0062] The design support screen 300B includes a display field 310, a setting field 320, an add button 340, an order setting button 342, and a generate button 344.

[0063] The three-dimensional model 124 of the raw workpiece W0 set in step S116 is displayed in a predetermined coordinate system in display field 310. The virtual space defined by this coordinate system (hereinafter also referred to as the "simulation space") corresponds, for example, to the machining area AR of the machine tool 200 described above.

[0064] The image displayed in the display field 310 is generated by projecting the three-dimensional model 124 from a specific viewpoint. For example, a matrix transformation formula for projecting the three-dimensional model 124 onto two-dimensional data is used during the projective transformation. The information processing device 100 changes the projection direction of the three-dimensional model 124 in response to a user operation on the display field 310. This allows the designer to display any three-dimensional model 124 according to their own purpose.

[0065] In step S122, the designer performs various setting operations on the design support screen 300B to design a machining program. As an example, the designer designs a machining program for a workpiece by arbitrarily combining various machining items in the setting field 320. Selectable machining items are displayed, for example, by pressing the add button 340. FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of a selection screen 300C that is displayed when the add button 340 is pressed.

[0066] The selection screen 300C is a type of design support screen, and is configured to accept an operation to select one or more processing items 322 from a plurality of processing items 322. In the example of Fig. 8, processing items 322A to 322C are shown as examples of the processing items 322.

[0067] A different machining command (machining program) is associated with each of the machining items 322A to 322C. For ease of explanation, the machining items 322A to 322C displayed on the selection screen 300C will be collectively referred to as the machining item 322 below.

[0068] The machining items selectable on the selection screen 300C include, for example, at least a machining item (first machining item) associated with a machining command to bring a tool into contact with a rotating workpiece, and a machining item (second machining item) associated with a machining command to bring a rotating tool into contact with a workpiece.

[0069] An example of the first machining item is a machining item 322A, which is associated with a turning machining command related to turning.

[0070] Examples of the second machining items include machining items 322B and 322C. A drilling machining command related to a drilling machining is associated with the machining item 322B. A milling machining command related to a milling machining is associated with the machining item 322C.

[0071] Fig. 9 is a diagram showing an example of the processing item database 126 that defines information related to the processing items 322. As shown in Fig. 9, the processing item database 126 associates the processing items 322 with processing commands. In this way, each processing item 322 is associated with a different processing command.

[0072] The machining instructions associated with the machining item 322 may be pre-designed or arbitrarily written by a designer. The machining instructions are, for example, NC programs.

[0073] Referring again to FIG. 8, the designer can set the processing parameters for each of the selected processing items 322.

[0074] As an example, assume that a machining item 322A related to a turning machining command is selected. Machining parameters that can be set for the machining item 322A include, for example, the type of tool used for machining, the number of revolutions (rotational speed) of the workpiece spindle 210, the feed rate of the tool spindle 230, and the drive path of the tool spindle 230. The drive path is specified by, for example, a machining start point in a simulation space corresponding to the machining area, a machining end point in the simulation space, and a movement pattern indicating a linear movement, a circular movement, etc.

[0075] As another example, suppose that a machining item 322B relating to a hole drilling machining command is selected. Machining parameters that can be set for the machining item 322B include, for example, the type of tool used for machining, the feed rate of the tool spindle 230, the number of revolutions (rotational speed) of the tool spindle 230, the position of the hole to be formed in the workpiece, the diameter of the hole to be formed in the workpiece, and the depth of the hole to be formed in the workpiece.

[0076] As yet another example, suppose that a machining item 322C related to a milling machining command is selected. Machining parameters that can be set for the machining item 322C include, for example, the type of tool used for machining, the feed rate of the tool spindle 230, the number of revolutions (rotational speed) of the tool spindle 230, and the drive path of the tool spindle 230. The drive path is specified by, for example, a machining start point in a simulation space corresponding to the machining area, a machining end point in the simulation space, and a movement pattern indicating a linear movement, a circular movement, or the like.

[0077] Fig. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a design support screen 300B on which processing items 322 are set. As shown in Fig. 10, a designer can design a processing program by combining various processing items 322 in any order on the design support screen 300B. In the example of Fig. 10, processing items 322C, 322A, 322A, and 322B are specified in this order in the setting field 320 of the design support screen 300B.

[0078] As an example, the execution order of the machining commands can be specified by the order of the machining items 322 in the setting field 320. The order of the machining items 322 can be changed, for example, by dragging and dropping each of the machining items 322. Alternatively, the designer can specify the order of the machining items 322 on an order change screen that is displayed by pressing the order setting button 342.

[0079] In this way, the design support screen 300B is configured to accept at least an operation of selecting one or more processing items 322 from a plurality of processing items 322, each associated with a different processing command, and an operation of specifying the execution order for the selected processing items 322 selected by the selection operation.

[0080] The information set on the design support screen 300B is saved as setting information 128 shown in Fig. 11. Fig. 11 is a diagram showing an example of the data structure of the setting information 128.

[0081] The setting information 128 may be saved when the designer presses a save button (not shown), or may be saved automatically at regular intervals. In the setting information 128, for example, the execution order of the processing item 322 selected on the design support screen 300B, the type of the processing item 322 to be selected, the processing command associated with the processing item 322 to be selected, and the above-mentioned processing parameters set for the processing item 322 to be selected are associated with each other.

[0082] Referring again to FIG. 5, in step S130, it is assumed that the designer presses the generation button 344 in the design support screen 300B. In this case, in step S132, the information processing apparatus 100 generates a machining program 123 (see FIG. 2) based on the execution order of the machining items 322 defined by the setting information 128, the machining commands associated with the machining items 322, and the machining parameters set for the machining items 322. The generated machining program 123 is stored, for example, in the auxiliary storage device 120 of the information processing apparatus 100. Alternatively, the generated machining program 123 may be transmitted to the machine tool 200, for example.

[0083] <F. Machining Simulation> Continuing to refer to FIGS. 10 and 11, the machining simulation based on the information set in the design support screen 300B will be described.

[0084] The design support screen 300B estimates the shape of the workpiece W1 when the machining related to the machining item 322 set in the setting column 320 is performed on the raw workpiece W0. The shape of the workpiece W1 by the machining simulation is displayed, for example, in the display column 33​​​​​​​The shape of the workpiece W1 is estimated based on, for example, the processing parameters defined in the setting information 128. As described above, the processing parameters include the drive path of the tool spindle 230 and the like. The drive path is defined by, for example, the machining start point in the simulation space corresponding to the machining area, the machining end point in the simulation space, and the movement pattern indicating linear movement, circular movement, etc. The information processing apparatus 100 estimates the shape of the workpiece W1 by executing a simulation of the machining according to the drive path associated with the 1st to Nth machining items 322.

[0087] More specifically, the information processing apparatus 100 refers to the setting information 128 and acquires the machining command corresponding to the 1st to Nth machining items 322 and the machining parameters associated with the machining command. The machining parameters include, for example, the type and shape of the tool, the drive path (tool locus), the depth of cut (cutting depth), the spindle speed, the feed rate, and the like.

[0088] Next, the information processing apparatus 100 performs a geometric operation on the three-dimensional model 124 of the raw workpiece W0 based on the acquired machining command and machining parameters. As an example, the information processing apparatus 100 sequentially subtracts the contact area between the tool and the workpiece when the tool spindle 230 is driven according to the drive path from the three-dimensional model 124. If there is a next machining step, the information processing apparatus 100 performs the same geometric operation again with the subtracted three-dimensional model as the initial shape. The information processing apparatus 100 estimates the shape of the workpiece W1 at the end of each machining step by repeating such geometric operations.

[0089] Preferably, the information processing apparatus 100 overlays and displays the drive path PS associated with the machining item 322 to be selected in the setting field 320 on the workpiece W1 as the estimation result.

[0090] <W. Warning display processing> Next, referring to FIG. 12, the display mode of the warning WR on the design support screen 300B will be described. FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of the display mode of the design support screen 300B.

[0091] As described above, the information processing device 100 calculates an eccentricity evaluation value that indicates asymmetry in the shape of the workpiece W1 in each machining process, and displays a warning WR when the eccentricity evaluation value satisfies a predetermined abnormal condition. The abnormal condition is satisfied, for example, when the eccentricity evaluation value does not fall within a predetermined normal range. The method for calculating the eccentricity evaluation value will be described later.

[0092] The timing for displaying the warning WR is arbitrary. As one example, the information processing device 100 displays the warning WR when a processing item 322 is added to the design support screen 300B. As another example, the information processing device 100 displays the warning WR when a processing item 322 that will cause a processing abnormality is selected in the setting field 320. As yet another example, the information processing device 100 displays the warning WR when an abnormality confirmation button (not shown) on the design support screen 300B is pressed.

[0093] The warning WR includes a message 352 that prompts the designer to change the machining parameters related to the turning machining command associated with the machining item 322A. The machining parameters that the designer is prompted to change include, for example, the rotational speed of the workpiece during turning. This allows the designer to realize that the rotational speed of the tool spindle 230 during turning should be changed.

[0094] The warning WR also includes a display field 354. The current rotation speed of the workpiece spindle 210 associated with the turning machining item 322A is displayed in the display field 354. The rotation speed is acquired, for example, from the setting information 128 (see FIG. 11) described above.

[0095] Preferably, the display field 354 includes an input field 356. The input field 356 is configured to receive the changed rotational speed of the workpiece spindle 210.

[0096] More preferably, the information processing apparatus 100 displays a recommended value of the rotational speed in the input field 356. The recommended value is, for example, a value smaller than the current rotational speed of the work spindle 210. The recommended value is calculated, for example, by multiplying the current rotational speed of the work spindle 210 by a predetermined ratio. The predetermined ratio is, for example, a predetermined value of 20% or more and 80% or less.

[0097] When the change button 358 is pressed with the changed rotational speed input in the input field 356, the information processing apparatus 100 updates the machining parameters associated with the machining item 322A of the turning process based on the changed rotational speed. On the other hand, when the cancel button 360 is pressed, the information processing apparatus 100 cancels the display of the warning WR without updating the machining parameters.

[0098] <H. Eccentricity evaluation value> Next, a method for calculating the eccentricity evaluation value will be described with reference to FIGS. 13 and 14. FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining an example of the method for calculating the eccentricity evaluation value.

[0099] The information processing apparatus 100 estimates the center-of-gravity coordinates of the work W1 in each machining step set in the setting field 320 (see FIG. 12). FIG. 13 shows the center-of-gravity coordinates P calculated for the work W1 in a certain machining step.

[0100] Any algorithm can be adopted as the method for estimating the center-of-gravity coordinates P. As an example, the information processing apparatus 100 divides the work W1 arranged in the simulation space into voxels (cubic lattices). Here, assuming that the center coordinates of the i-th voxel are "x(i), y(i), z(i)" and the volume of the i-th voxel is "dV(i)", the center-of-gravity coordinates P(X, Y, Z) can be obtained by the following equations (1) to (3).

[0101] X = Σ{x(i)·dV(i)} / Σ{dV(i)} ··· (1) Y = Σ{y(i)·dV(i)} / Σ{dV(i)} ··· (2) Z = Σ{z(i)·dV(i)} / Σ{dV(i)} ··· (3) Next, the information processing device 100 calculates the distance D between the center of gravity coordinate P and the rotation axis AX1 of the workpiece W1 as an eccentricity evaluation value. The distance D represents the shortest distance from the center of gravity coordinate P to the rotation axis AX1. Next, the information processing device 100 displays a warning WR if the distance D serving as the eccentricity evaluation value is outside a predetermined normal range.

[0102] Preferably, the information processing device 100 displays the barycentric coordinates P superimposed on the workpiece W1 in the display field 330 of the design support screen 300B, thereby enabling the designer to easily grasp the degree of eccentricity of the workpiece W1.

[0103] FIG. 14 is a diagram for explaining another example of a method for calculating an eccentricity evaluation value.

[0104] As another example, the information processing device 100 divides the workpiece W1 in each machining process set in the setting field 320 at predetermined intervals along the rotation axis AX1 of the workpiece spindle 210. Fig. 14 shows an example in which the workpiece W1 is divided into workpiece parts WA to WG. Next, the information processing device 100 estimates the center of gravity coordinates PA to PG of the workpiece parts WA to WG, respectively. The method for estimating the center of gravity coordinates is as described above.

[0105] Next, the information processing device 100 calculates the distance between each of the center of gravity coordinates PA to PG and the rotation axis AX1 as an eccentricity evaluation value. Next, if at least one of the calculated eccentricity evaluation values ​​is outside a predetermined normal range, the information processing device 100 displays a warning WR.

[0106] Preferably, the information processing device 100 displays the barycentric coordinates PA to PG superimposed on the workpiece W1 in the display field 330 of the design support screen 300B, thereby enabling the designer to easily grasp the degree of eccentricity of the workpiece W1.

[0107] The barycentric coordinates PA to PG may be displayed in any manner in the display field 330. As one example, each of the barycentric coordinates PA to PG is displayed as a point. As another example, a barycentric line connecting the barycentric coordinates PA to PG may be displayed in the display field 330.

[0108] <I.フローチャート> Next, a control flow relating to the display processing of the warning WR will be described with reference to Fig. 15. Fig. 15 is a diagram showing a flowchart relating to the display processing of the warning WR.

[0109] 15 is executed, for example, while the control device 101 of the information processing device 100 is executing the above-mentioned design support program 122 (see FIG. 8). Note that part or all of the process shown in FIG. 15 may be executed by a circuit element or other hardware different from the control device 101.

[0110] In step S110, the control device 101 determines whether or not to execute a setting abnormality determination process for the setting items on the design support screen 300B. As one example, the control device 101 determines to execute a setting abnormality determination process based on the addition of a processing item 322 on the design support screen 300B. As another example, the control device 101 determines to execute a setting abnormality determination process based on the pressing of an abnormality confirmation button (not shown) on the design support screen 300B.

[0111] If the control device 101 determines that the setting abnormality determination process should be executed (YES in step S110), the control switches to step S120. Otherwise (NO in step S110), the control device 101 executes the process of step S110 again.

[0112] In step S120, the control device 101 determines whether or not the turning machining item 322A (see FIG. 12) is included on the design support screen 300B. If the control device 101 determines that the turning machining item 322A is included on the design support screen 300B (YES in step S120), the control proceeds to step S130. If not (NO in step S120), the control device 101 ends the processing shown in FIG.

[0113] In step S120, the control device 101 determines whether the machining item 322A related to turning is set after the machining item 322C related to milling on the design support screen 300B. If the control device 101 determines that the machining item 322A related to turning is set after the machining item 322C related to milling (YES in step S130), the control switches to step S132. If not (NO in step S130), the control device 101 ends the processing shown in FIG. 15.

[0114] In step S132, the control device 101 estimates the shape of the workpiece W1 in each machining process based on the machining commands associated with each of the machining items 322 set on the design support screen 300B. Next, the control device 101 calculates the above-mentioned eccentricity evaluation value based on the estimated shape of the workpiece W1.

[0115] In step S140, the control device 101 determines whether the eccentricity evaluation value calculated in step S132 satisfies a predetermined abnormal condition. The abnormal condition is satisfied, for example, when the eccentricity evaluation value does not fall within a predetermined normal range. If the control device 101 determines that the eccentricity evaluation value calculated in step S132 satisfies the predetermined abnormal condition (YES in step S140), the control device 101 switches control to step S142. If not (NO in step S140), the control device 101 ends the processing shown in FIG. 15.

[0116] In step S142, the control device 101 displays the above-mentioned warning WR (see FIG. 12) on the design support screen 300B.

[0117] The embodiments disclosed herein should be considered to be illustrative in all respects and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is defined by the claims, not by the above description, and is intended to include all modifications within the meaning and scope of the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0118] 95 bed, 100 information processing device, 101 control device, 102 ROM, 103 RAM, 104 communication interface, 105 display interface, 106 display, 107 input interface, 108 input device, 110 bus, 120 auxiliary storage device, 122 design support program, 123 machining program, 124 three-dimensional model, 126 machining item database, 128 setting information, 200 machine tool, 210 workpiece spindle, 212 first chuck mechanism, 220 opposing workpiece spindle, 222 second chuck mechanism, 230 tool spindle, 250 tool rest, 252 turret, 300 design support screen, 300A design support screen, 300B design support screen, 300C selection screen, 302 input field, 302A input field, 302B input field, 302C input field, 302D Input field, 302E input field, 302F input field, 304 display field, 306 cancel button, 308 setting button, 310 display field, 320 setting field, 322 machining item, 322A machining item, 322B machining item, 322C machining item, 330 display field, 340 add button, 342 order setting button, 344 generate button, 352 message, 354 display field, 356 input field, 358 change button, 360 cancel button, 500 machining system, AR machining area, AX1 rotary axis, AX2 rotary axis, AX3 axis, D distance, P center of gravity coordinate, PS drive path, T tool, W0 material work, W1 work, WR warning.

Claims

1. An information processing device, The display and a control unit; the control unit executes a process of displaying a design support screen for a machining program on the display, The design support screen includes: An operation to set the shape of the material work before machining, An operation of selecting one or more processing items from a plurality of processing items each associated with a different processing command; and an operation to specify an execution order for the processing items selected by the selecting operation, The control unit A process of executing the machining commands associated with each of the machining items to be selected on the material workpiece in the execution order, estimating the shape of the workpiece in a state where there are unexecuted machining items, and calculating an evaluation value indicating the asymmetry of the workpiece; and when the evaluation value satisfies a predetermined abnormal condition, displaying a warning on the display.

2. the plurality of machining items include a first machining item associated with a turning machining command that causes a tool to come into contact with a rotating workpiece; The information processing apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the control unit displays the warning when the evaluation value satisfies the predetermined abnormal condition and the first processing item is included in the selection targets.

3. the plurality of machining items include a second machining item associated with a milling machining command that causes a rotating tool to come into contact with a workpiece; 3. The information processing device according to claim 2, wherein the control unit displays the warning when the evaluation value satisfies the specified abnormal condition, the first processing item and the second processing item are included in the selection targets, and the execution order is specified so that the processing related to the first processing item is performed after the processing related to the second processing item.

4. The information processing device according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the warning includes a message prompting a user to change the rotation speed of the workpiece related to the turning machining command.

5. 4. The information processing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the evaluation value is a distance between a center of gravity of the workpiece before the turning command is executed and an axis of rotation of the workpiece when the turning command is executed.

6. A design support method executed by an information processing device to support the design of a machining program, comprising: a step of displaying a design support screen for a machining program on a display; The design support screen includes: An operation to set the shape of the material work before machining, An operation of selecting one or more processing items from a plurality of processing items each associated with a different processing command; and an operation to specify an execution order for the processing items selected by the selecting operation, The design support method further comprises: A step of executing the machining commands associated with each of the machining items to be selected on the material workpiece in the execution order, estimating the shape of the workpiece in a state where there are unexecuted machining items, and calculating an evaluation value indicating the asymmetry of the workpiece; and displaying a warning on the display when the evaluation value satisfies a predetermined abnormal condition.

7. A design support program for supporting the design of a machining program, the design support program causes a computer to execute a process of displaying a design support screen for a machining program on a display; The design support screen includes: An operation to set the shape of the material work before machining, An operation of selecting one or more processing items from a plurality of processing items each associated with a different processing command; and an operation to specify an execution order for the processing items selected by the selecting operation, The design support program further includes: A process of executing the machining commands associated with each of the machining items to be selected on the material workpiece in the execution order, estimating the shape of the workpiece in a state where there are unexecuted machining items, and calculating an evaluation value indicating the asymmetry of the workpiece; and if the evaluation value satisfies a predetermined abnormal condition, displaying a warning on the display.

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