Information processing method and information processing device

Abstract

The information processing method executed by the computer includes the steps of: acquiring overall machining shape data indicating the overall machining shape of the workpiece; dividing the overall machining shape data into a plurality of partial machining shape data, each of which indicates the machining shape of a different portion of the workpiece; determining a machining type for each partial machining shape data based on the machining shape of each partial machining shape data; and determining a first machining process, a first tool used, and a first machining condition for each portion from the plurality of partial machining shape data according to the machining type, by referring to a first database that stores performance information including actual machining shape data, actual machining process data, actual tool use data, and actual machining condition data.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an information processing method and an information processing device. [Background technology]

[0002] It has been known to generate NC programs used in machine tools using computer-aided manufacturing (CAM), as disclosed in, for example, Japanese Patent Laid-Open Publication No. 2023-98544 (Patent Document 1). Specifically, an NC (Numerical Control) program is generated by software called a post-processor after a tool path is generated by CAM software. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2023-98544 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In computer-aided manufacturing, it is necessary to set the machining process, the tools to be used, and the machining conditions. If these settings could be performed automatically without relying on the operator's experience, it would be possible to improve work efficiency and maintain quality.

[0005] The present disclosure provides an information processing method and information processing device that can automatically determine a machining process, a tool to be used, and machining conditions in computer-aided manufacturing. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, an information processing method executed by a computer includes the steps of: acquiring overall machining shape data indicating the overall machining shape of a workpiece; dividing the overall machining shape data into a plurality of partial machining shape data, each of which indicates the machining shape of a different portion of the workpiece; determining a machining type for each partial machining shape data based on the machining shape of each partial machining shape data; and determining a first machining process, a first tool used, and a first machining condition for each portion from the plurality of partial machining shape data according to the machining type, by referring to a first database that stores performance information including actual machining shape data, actual machining process data, actual tool use data, and actual machining condition data.

[0007] Preferably, each piece of performance information further includes an actual machining result. In the step of determining the first machining process, the first tool used, and the first machining conditions, the first machining process, the first tool used, and the first machining conditions are determined from the partial-machining shape data and each actual machining result.

[0008] Preferably, the information processing method further includes a step of generating a first machining program based on first machining process data indicating the first machining process, first tool use data indicating the first tool use, and first machining condition data indicating the first machining conditions.

[0009] Preferably, the information processing method further includes the steps of generating a second machining program based on second machining process data, second tool usage data, and second machining condition data input by a user, simulating the second machining program, and storing simulation information including the second machining process data, second tool usage data, second machining condition data, and simulation results of the second machining program in a first database.

[0010] Preferably, the step of determining the first machining process, the first tool used, and the first machining conditions includes the steps of calculating the degree of agreement between the partial machining shape data and a plurality of actual machining shape data stored in the first database, selecting, from the plurality of pieces of performance information stored in the first database, performance information including actual machining shape data having the highest degree of agreement that is equal to or greater than a threshold, determining the machining process indicated by the actual machining process data included in the selected performance information as the first machining process, determining the tool indicated by the actual tool use data included in the selected performance information as the first tool use, and determining the machining conditions indicated by the actual machining condition data included in the selected performance information as the first machining conditions.

[0011] Preferably, the information processing method further includes a step of determining a first machining process, a first tool to be used, and first machining conditions by referring to a second database provided by a tool manufacturer and storing recommended machining shapes and recommended machining processes for each of a plurality of tools provided by the tool manufacturer, if the first database does not contain performance information including actual machining shape data whose degree of match is equal to or greater than a threshold.

[0012] Preferably, in the step of determining the machining type, if the machining shape is cylindrical, the machining type is determined to be hole machining, if the machining shape has a chamfered shape continuing from the cylindrical shape, the machining type is determined to be chamfered hole machining, and if the machining shape is another cylindrical shape with a larger diameter continuing from the cylindrical shape, the machining type is determined to be countersunk hole machining.

[0013] Preferably, in the step of determining the processing type, if the processing shape is composed of one plane, the processing type is determined to be plane processing, and if the processing shape is composed of multiple planes and curved surfaces, the processing type is determined to be pocket.

[0014] Preferably, the step of determining the first machining process includes the steps of: referring to the first database to obtain a plurality of recommended machining processes for each part based on the machining shape of each part machining shape data and the material of the workpiece; displaying the plurality of recommended machining processes on a display; accepting selection of one recommended machining process from the plurality of recommended machining processes; and determining the selected recommended machining process as the first machining process.

[0015] Preferably, one of the plurality of recommended machining processes is balance cutting, drawing, or general-purpose turning.

[0016] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, an information processing device includes an acquisition means for acquiring overall machining shape data indicating the overall machining shape of a workpiece, a division means for dividing the machining shape data into a plurality of partial machining shape data each indicating the machining shape of a different portion of the workpiece, a first determination means for determining a machining type for each partial machining shape data based on the machining shape of each partial machining shape data, and a second determination means for referring to a database storing performance information including actual machining shape data, actual machining process data, actually used tool data, and actual machining condition data, and determining a machining process, used tools, and machining conditions according to the machining type for each portion based on the plurality of partial machining shape data. [Effects of the Invention]

[0017] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to automatically determine the machining process, the tools to be used, and the machining conditions. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0018] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of an information processing system. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is a diagram for explaining a process of generating an NC program. [Figure 3] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of a data structure of reference data. [Figure 4]10A and 10B are diagrams for explaining a process for automatically determining a machining process and a tool / machining condition. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a process performed when new reference data is additionally registered in a database. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a flowchart illustrating a flow of processing executed by an information processing device. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram illustrating a functional configuration of the information processing device. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a data table relating to machining processes stored in a database. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a data table relating to machine and tool specifications stored in a database. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0019] Hereinafter, each embodiment according to the present invention will be described with reference 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 description thereof will not be repeated.

[0020] <System Overview> Fig. 1 is a diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of an information processing system according to the present embodiment. As shown in Fig. 1, the information processing system 1 includes an information processing device 100, a database 200, and a database 300. The information processing device 100 is an example of the "computer" of the present disclosure.

[0021] More specifically, a plurality of information processing devices 100 are communicatively connected to database 200 and database 300. Some information processing devices 100 are used by a machine tool manufacturer, and other information processing devices 100 are used by users who operate machine tools provided by the machine tool manufacturer.

[0022] Database 200 is typically managed by a manufacturer of machine tools. The information stored in database 200 will be described later. Database 300 is typically managed by a manufacturer that provides tools used in machine tools. In detail, database 300 is provided by a tool manufacturer and stores recommended machining shapes and recommended machining processes for each of a plurality of tools provided by the tool manufacturer.

[0023] The information processing device 100 includes a processor 110, a memory 120, an input device 130, a display 140, and a communication interface 150. The processor 110 is connected to the memory 120, the input device 130, the display 140, and the communication interface 150.

[0024] The processor 110 executes the software and programs described below. The processor 110 displays various information, such as the execution results, on a display 140. The processor 110 receives information input using an input device 130, such as a keyboard or a touch screen. The processor 110 communicates with the database 200 and the database 300 via a communication interface 150.

[0025] Installed in the memory 120 are CAD software 121, CMA software 122, a post-processor 123, a simulation program 124, a cutting force optimization program 125, and an automatic decision program 126. The processor 110 executes these software and programs.

[0026] The CAM software 122 calculates a tool path for the CAD data generated by the CAD software 121. The tool path is also called a cutting location (CL). In this example, the CAM software 122 is interactive software. Therefore, the user only needs to input data by following the guidance on the screen displayed on the information processing device 100.

[0027] The post-processor 123 converts the tool path according to the structure of the machine tool to be used and the specifications of the NC device. The post-processor 123 adds command codes such as feed rate, spindle speed, and various macros to the converted tool path, and outputs an NC program determined for each NC device manufacturer. Note that the NC program is a machining program used in an NC machine tool. The NC program is a program that combines dedicated codes such as G codes and M codes.

[0028] The simulation program 124 is a program for cutting. The simulation program 124 simulates the NC program and performs evaluation of the machining shape, interference check, and prediction of machining time. The cutting force optimization program 125 evaluates the cutting load.

[0029] Specifically, the post-processor 123 automatically generates an NC program with optimized machining conditions based on the simulation results by the simulation program 124 and the evaluation results by the cutting force optimization program 125.

[0030] Note that the post-processor 123, the simulation program 124, and the cutting force optimization program 125 are provided, for example, as one integrated software. The post-processor 123 or the above integrated software may be provided as a part of the functions of the CMA software 122. That is, the post-processor 123 or the above integrated software may be an add-in to the CMA software 122.

[0031] Note that these software and programs do not necessarily have to be installed in the information processing device 100 and may be provided by a web browser.

[0032] <Generation of NC Program> 2 is a diagram mainly for explaining the process of generating an NC program. For the sake of convenience, evaluation of cutting load by the cutting force optimization program 125 is not shown in FIG.

[0033] When CAD data of a model is generated using CAD software 121, the CAD data is input to CAM software 122, as shown in Fig. 2. That is, the model is imported into CAM (process (1)). Next, the user inputs the shape of the workpiece to be cut (material shape) into CAM software 122. This sets the material shape in CAM (process (2)).

[0034] Furthermore, the CAM software 122 recognizes the machining shape of the workpiece based on the imported model and the set material shape (process (3)). More specifically, the CAM software 122 recognizes the machining shape (also called "Feature") for each machining location. Process (3) further includes a process for determining the machining type.

[0035] More specifically, the CAM software 122 recognizes the overall machining shape of the workpiece (overall machining shape). Furthermore, the CAM software 122 divides the recognized overall machining shape into a plurality of machining shapes (partial machining shapes).

[0036] In the following, when simply referred to as "machining shape", it refers to each partial machining shape after division. Furthermore, when simply referred to as "machining shape data", it refers to data of the partial machining shape (partial machining shape data). When referring to the overall machining shape before division, it is written as "overall machining shape" or "overall machining shape". When referring to data indicating the overall machining shape, it is written as "overall machining shape data". The above process (3) is a process for recognizing the partial machining shape. Process (3) includes a process for determining the machining type for each partial machining shape data. After that, the machining process is set (process (4)).

[0037] Once the machining process is set, the tools / machining conditions are set (process (5)). That is, the tools to be used and the machining conditions are set. More specifically, the machining process includes rough machining and finish machining. Therefore, the tools to be used and the machining conditions are set for each of the rough machining and finish machining. The tools / machining conditions are parameters for rough machining and parameters for finish machining. The tool settings include the settings of the tool type, tool diameter, and tool length. The machining condition settings include the settings of each parameter such as cutting width, cutting depth (cutting depth), feed rate, and rotation speed.

[0038] Although details will be described later, in the information processing system 1, the information processing device 100 can automatically determine the machining process and the tools / machining conditions by executing the automatic determination program 126 and referring to the database 200. The machining process and the tools / machining conditions can also be set manually by the user via the input device 130 (manual setting). Such manual input is performed when a machine tool manufacturer accumulates data in the database 200 prior to the actual operation of the information processing system 1.

[0039] Next, the CAM software 122 determines a tool path based on the set machining process and the set tool / machining conditions (process (6)). With this, the processing by the CAM software 122 ends.

[0040] The post-processor 123 performs post-processing based on the determined tool path. That is, the post-processor 123 generates an NC program for the machine tool 400 (process (7)). Thereafter, the simulation program 124 executes a simulation using the NC program (process (8)). The post-processor 123 updates the NC program based on the simulation results.

[0041] The NC program is then sent to machine tool 400. Machine tool 400 executes the NC program. That is, machine tool 400 performs actual machining on a workpiece. Data related to the actual machining by machine tool 400 (actual machining information) is registered in database 200.

[0042] In this example, the actual machining information is registered in database 200 by an operation panel of machine tool 400 (more specifically, a computer in the operation panel). However, this is not limited to this, and the registration may be performed by a device such as information processing device 100.

[0043] <Database 200> In the actual operation stage, the database 200 stores a plurality of reference data (FIG. 3), each of which indicates data related to the machining of one machining shape (Feature) and is referenced by the information processing device 100. Each reference data includes one piece of performance information and one piece of simulation information. Each piece of performance information includes programming information and actual machining information. In this way, each reference data includes programming information, actual machining information, and simulation information.

[0044] The programming information includes "actual workpiece material data" indicating the material of the actual workpiece, "actually used tool data" indicating the actually used tool (type, diameter, length), "actual machining condition data" indicating the actual machining conditions, "actual machining shape data" indicating the actual machining shape, and "actual machining process data" indicating the actual machining process. The actual machining information includes "actually used machine data" indicating the actually used machine (machine tool) and "actual machining result data" indicating the actual machining result. The actual machining result data includes various information such as information indicating whether chatter vibration occurs or not, information about the tool life, etc.

[0045] In the above, "actual" means "in machining that has been performed in the past." For example, actual machining shape data is data that indicates the machining shape in machining that has been performed in the past (more specifically, 3D model data). Actual machining process data is data that indicates the machining process in machining that has been performed in the past. The machining process is a series of steps (how to perform machining) until a specified target shape (in this example, the partial machining shape described above) is obtained.

[0046] Each piece of performance information indicates the performance of one machining shape. When multiple locations are machined on one workpiece (i.e., when there are multiple machining shapes), multiple pieces of performance information regarding the machining of one workpiece are registered in the database 200.

[0047] Fig. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the data structure of the reference data D1. As shown in Fig. 3, the reference data D1 includes programming information, simulation information, and actual processing information.

[0048] The programming information includes NC program information (program name), actual machining shape data, and actual machining process data. The programming information includes actual machining data, tool data actually used, and machining condition data for the rough machining process. Similarly, the programming information includes machining data, tool data actually used, and machining condition data for the finish machining process. In this example, the operation ID "001" is assigned to the rough machining, and the operation ID "002" is assigned to the finish machining. The reference data D1 is data for a shallow pocket shape.

[0049] The simulation information includes machining process data, tool data, and machining condition data during the simulation, and further includes simulation results (such as whether chatter occurs).

[0050] <Automatic decision process> Fig. 4 is a diagram for explaining processing when the processor 110 of the information processing device 100 executes the automatic determination program 126. In detail, Fig. 4 is a diagram for explaining processing for automatically determining a machining process and tools / machining conditions.

[0051] 4, the information processing device 100 includes a determination unit 180 that automatically determines a machining process and a tool / machining condition (more specifically, a tool to be used and the machining condition) for each machining shape. The determination unit 180 is a functional block that is realized when the processor 110 executes the automatic determination program 126.

[0052] When the information processing device 100 recognizes the machining shape (see process (3)), it stores machining shape data 127 indicating the recognized machining shape for each machining shape in the memory 120. In addition to the above-mentioned software and programs, the memory 120 also stores information on usable machine tools, information on the material of usable workpieces, information on usable tools, etc.

[0053] Specifically, the information processing device 100 acquires overall machining shape data indicating the overall machining shape of the workpiece. The information processing device 100 divides the overall machining shape data into multiple machining shape data 127, each indicating the machining shape of a different portion of the workpiece.

[0054] In this context, "usable" refers to being installed at the target work site in the case of machine tools. In the case of tools, it means being present at the work site. Information on usable machine tools, information on the materials of usable workpieces, and information on usable tools may each include information on multiple different machine tools, information on multiple different materials, and information on multiple different tools. In this context, "different" refers to different types in the case of machine tools. In the case of tools, it also includes different diameters and lengths in addition to different types.

[0055] The determination unit 180 reads out the machining shape data 127, information on available machine tools, information on the material of the workpiece, and information on available tools from the memory 120. Thereafter, the determination unit 180 accesses the database 200. The determination unit 180 refers to each piece of performance information stored in the database 200.

[0056] The determination unit 180 determines the machining process, the tools to be used, and the machining conditions based on the above information read from the memory 120 and each piece of performance information in the database 200. In detail, the determination unit 180 determines the machining process, the tools to be used, and the machining conditions based on the machining shape data 127, under the constraints of the available machine tools, the material of the workpiece, and the available tool information. More specifically, the determination unit 180 determines the machining process, the tools to be used, and the machining conditions by referring to the actual machining result data in the database 200.

[0057] Specifically, the determination unit 180 selects actual machining process data, actually-used tool data, and actual machining condition data that are each associated with an actual machining result that satisfies a predetermined criterion. More specifically, the determination unit 180 selects actual machining process data, actually-used tool data, and actual machining condition data that are included in performance information that includes actual machining result data that satisfies the predetermined criterion. The determination unit 180 determines the selected actual machining process data, actually-used tool data, and actual machining condition data as the machining process, used tool, and machining condition to be set in the CAM software 122, respectively.

[0058] The processing of the determination unit 180 will be further described as follows: The determination unit 180 calculates the degree of agreement between the acquired machining shape data 127 and each actual machining shape data included in the multiple pieces of performance information in the database 200. The determination unit 180 selects the performance information including the actual machining shape data whose degree of agreement is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold and is the highest.

[0059] In detail, from among a plurality of pieces of performance information including actual use machine data indicating the same machine as one of the available machine tools stored in memory 120, actual work material data indicating the same material as one of the available work materials, and actual use tool data that is the same as one of the available tool information, the performance information including the actual machining shape data whose degree of agreement is equal to or exceeds a predetermined threshold and is the highest is selected.

[0060] Furthermore, the determination unit 180 determines the machining process indicated by the actual machining process data included in the selected performance information as the machining process to be set in the CAM software 122. Similarly, the determination unit 180 determines the tool indicated by the actually used tool data included in the selected performance information as the used tool to be set in the CAM software 122. The determination unit 180 determines the machining conditions indicated by the actual machining condition data included in the selected performance information as the machining conditions to be set in the CAM software 122.

[0061] If the database 200 does not contain any performance information including actual machining shape data whose degree of coincidence is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold, the determination unit 180 determines the machining process, the tool to be used, and the machining conditions by referring to the database 300. The determination unit 180 may be configured to determine the tool to be used and the machining conditions based on the machining shape data 127 and the machining process input by the user.

[0062] By the above-described processing of the determination unit 180, the information processing device 100 can automatically determine the machining process and the tools / machining conditions to be set in the CAM software 122. The determined machining process and the tools / machining conditions are input to the CAM software 122.

[0063] Thereafter, the CAM software 122 calculates a tool path (process (6)). Furthermore, the post processor 123 generates an NC program based on the machining process data indicating the automatically determined machining process, the tool use data indicating the automatically determined tool to be used, and the machining condition data indicating the automatically determined machining conditions (process (7)).

[0064] When actual machining is performed by the machine tool 400 based on the NC program, performance information relating to the actual machining is newly registered in the database 200.

[0065] In the above description, an example has been given of a configuration in which performance information is registered in the database 200 and the determination unit 180 refers to the registered performance information. However, the present invention is not limited to this. The determination unit 180 may determine the machining process, the tool used, and the machining conditions by referring to simulation information including the simulation result, the machining process, the tool used, the machining conditions, etc. used in the simulation. For example, in cases where a large amount of performance information is not stored in the database 200, the determination unit 180 may determine the machining process, the tool used, and the machining conditions by using not only the performance information but also the simulation performance.

[0066] <Update Database 200> Fig. 5 is a diagram illustrating the processing performed when new reference data is additionally registered in database 200. As shown in Fig. 5, it is assumed that a plurality of reference data D1, D2, D3, D4, ... are already stored in database 200.

[0067] The calculation results by the CAM software 122 and data input through dialogue with the CAM software 122 are recorded as programming information for newly added reference data. The CAM software 122 generates tool paths using APT (Automatically Programmed Tool). APT is a programming language used to generate commands for NC machine tools.

[0068] The post-processor 123 analyzes the generated tool path. The information processing device 100 records the analysis result of the tool path by the post-processor 123 for each machining shape (each operation ID) recognized by the CAM software 122 as programming information of newly added reference data.

[0069] The programming information includes NC program information. The machining shape data, machining process data, and tool / machining condition data set by the CAM software 122 are registered in the programming information of the database 200 as actual machining shape data, actual machining process data, actual tool data, and actual machining condition data.

[0070] Furthermore, the information processing device 100 records the results of the simulation of the NC program by the simulation program 124 as simulation information in the newly added reference data.

[0071] When machine tool 400 performs actual machining based on the NC program, the control panel of machine tool 400 records various information during actual machining as actual machining information of newly added reference data.

[0072] <Control Structure> Fig. 6 is a flow diagram for explaining the flow of processing executed by the information processing device 100. As shown in Fig. 6, in step S1, the processor 110 uses the CAM software 122 to recognize (generate) machining shape data indicating the machining shape of the workpiece.

[0073] More specifically, in step S1, the processor 110 acquires overall machining shape data indicating the overall machining shape of the workpiece using the CAM software 122. Next, the processor 110 divides the overall machining shape data into a plurality of partial machining shape data each indicating the machining shape of a different portion of the workpiece (partial machining shape). As a result, machining shape data indicating the machining shape of the workpiece is generated.

[0074] In step S2, the processor 110 determines a machining type for each partial machining shape data based on the machining shapes (features) of the plurality of partial machining shape data. For example, if the machining shape is a cylindrical shape, the processor 110 determines (recognizes) the machining type as hole machining. If the machining shape has a chamfered shape continuing from the cylindrical shape, the processor 110 determines the machining type as chamfered hole machining. If the machining shape is a cylindrical shape (first cylindrical shape) continuing from another cylindrical shape (second cylindrical shape) with a larger diameter, the processor 110 determines the machining type as counterbore hole machining. If the machining shape is composed of one plane, the processor 110 determines the machining type as plane machining. If the machining shape is composed of multiple planes and curved surfaces, the processor 110 determines the machining type as pocket. If the machining shape is a threaded shape, the processor 110 determines the machining type as a screw hole.

[0075] The rules for determining the machining type can be freely set. For example, the second cylindrical shape determined as a counterbore as described above may be determined as a hole, separate from the original cylindrical shape. This process is repeated until the machining types for all partial machining shape data are determined.

[0076] In step S3, processor 110 sets the number (N) of machining locations (machining shape data). In step S4, processor 110 sets the value of variable i to 1.

[0077] In step S5, the processor 110 (determining unit 180) determines the machining process for the workpiece, the tool to be used for machining the workpiece, and the machining conditions for the workpiece from the i-th machining shape data by referring to the database 200. In step S6, the processor 110 calculates a tool path using the CAM software 122.

[0078] In step S7, processor 110 increments the value of variable i. That is, processor 110 increases the value of variable i by 1. In step S8, processor 110 determines whether the value of variable i has become N.

[0079] When the value of variable i becomes N (YES in step S8), in step S9, processor 110 generates an NC program based on each tool path using post processor 123. When the value of variable i is less than N (NO in step S8), processor 110 returns the process to step S5.

[0080] <Functional configuration> Fig. 7 is a functional block diagram for explaining the functional configuration of the information processing device 100. As shown in Fig. 7, the information processing device 100 includes an acquisition unit 160, a division unit 170, and a determination unit 180. The acquisition unit 160 and the division unit 170 are functional blocks that are realized by the processor 110 executing the CAM software 122.

[0081] The acquiring unit 160 acquires overall machining shape data indicating the machining shape of the entire workpiece. The dividing unit 170 divides the acquired overall machining shape data into a plurality of partial machining shape data, each of which indicates the machining shape of a different portion of the workpiece. The determining unit 180 determines a machining type for each partial machining shape data based on the machining shape of each partial machining shape data. Furthermore, the determining unit 180 refers to a database 200 that stores performance information including actual machining shape data, actual machining process data, actually used tool data, and actual machining condition data, and determines a machining process, used tool, and machining conditions for each portion based on the plurality of partial machining shape data.

[0082] <Advantages> A part of the configuration of the present disclosure and its advantages will be described below, with a focus on the information processing method performed by the information processing device 100.

[0083] [A] Aspects of automated decision making using database 200 (1) As described above, the information processing method includes a step of acquiring overall machining shape data indicating the overall machining shape of the workpiece. The information processing method further includes a step of dividing the overall machining shape data into a plurality of machining shape data (more specifically, partial machining shape data), each of which indicates the machining shape of a different portion of the workpiece. The information processing method further includes a step of determining a machining type for each partial machining shape data based on the machining shape of each partial machining shape data. The information processing method further includes a step of determining a machining process, a tool to be used, and machining conditions for each portion from the plurality of machining shape data, according to the machining type, by referring to a database 200 that stores performance information including actual machining shape data, actual machining process data, actually used tool data, and actual machining condition data. Such a method makes it possible to automatically determine the machining process, the tool to be used, and the machining conditions. More specifically, the method makes it possible to automatically determine the machining process, the tool to be used, and the machining conditions according to the machining type determined for each partial machining shape data.

[0084] (2) In the information processing method, in the step of determining the machining process, the tool to be used, and the machining conditions, the machining process, the tool to be used, and the machining conditions are determined based on the machining shape data and each actual machining result. With this configuration, the machining process, the tool to be used, and the machining conditions can be determined taking into account the actual machining results. For example, the machining process, the tool to be used, and the machining conditions can be determined so that chatter vibration does not occur.

[0085] (3) The information processing method further includes a step of generating a machining program based on machining process data indicating the machining process, tool use data indicating the tool use, and machining condition data indicating the machining conditions. According to this method, it is possible to generate an NC program based on the machining process, tool use, and machining conditions determined using the database 200.

[0086] (4) The step of determining the machining process, the tools to be used, and the machining conditions includes the following five steps (i) to (v).

[0087] (i) A step of calculating the degree of coincidence between the machining shape data and a plurality of actual machining shape data stored in the database 200 (ii) A step of selecting, from among the plurality of pieces of performance information stored in the database 200, performance information including actual machining shape data whose degree of coincidence is equal to or greater than a threshold and is the highest. (iii) determining the machining process indicated by the actual machining process data included in the selected performance information as the machining process; (iv) determining the tool indicated by the actually used tool data included in the selected performance information as the tool to be used; (v) determining the machining conditions indicated by the actual machining condition data included in the selected performance information as the machining conditions; According to this method, the machining process, the tool, and the machining conditions indicated by the data (actual machining process data, actually used tool data, actual machining condition data) associated with the actual machining shape data that has a high degree of coincidence among a plurality of actual machining shape data can be determined as the machining process, the used tool, and the machining conditions. In this way, it is possible to determine the machining process, the used tool, and the machining conditions that are suitable for the machining shape data.

[0088] (5) The information processing method further includes a step of determining a machining process, a tool to be used, and machining conditions by referring to a database 300 that is provided by a tool manufacturer and stores recommended machining shapes and recommended machining processes for each of a plurality of tools provided by the tool manufacturer, when there is no performance information including actual machining shape data whose degree of match is equal to or greater than a threshold in the database 200. According to this method, even when appropriate data does not exist in the database 200, it is possible to automatically determine a machining process, a tool to be used, and machining conditions by using the database 300 as a second best option.

[0089] [B] Database 200 update phase The information processing method includes a step of generating a machining program based on machining process data, tool-use data, and machining condition data input by a user. The information processing method includes a step of simulating the machining program. The information processing method further includes a step of storing simulation information including the machining process data, tool-use data, machining condition data, and simulation results of the machining program in database 200. Such a method makes it possible to automatically determine the machining process, the tools to be used, and the machining conditions using the simulation information.

[0090] <Modification> In the above, the information processing device 100 automatically determined the machining process. Below, a method of determining a machining process involving a user's selection operation will be described. In the following, the user inputs to the CAM software 122 not only the shape of the workpiece to be cut, but also the material of the workpiece. Examples of the material of the workpiece that can be specified include steel, non-ferrous material, difficult-to-cut material, and resin. Below, two examples will be described.

[0091] (First Modification) A configuration may be adopted in which a plurality of machining processes (recommended machining processes) according to the machine specifications of the machine tool 400 are acquired from the database 200, and these recommended machining processes are presented to the user in order of recommendation. Such a configuration will be described below.

[0092] In this case, the user further inputs the specifications of the machine tool 400 (more specifically, part of the specifications) and the tool inventory into the information processing device 100. The specifications of the machine tool 400 include, for example, the number of tool posts and whether or not there is an option for swing cutting. The tool inventory information includes, for example, whether or not there is a dedicated tool for drawing. The following describes an example in which the specifications of the machine tool 400 include two tool posts and no option for swing cutting.

[0093] Fig. 8 is a diagram showing a data table 500 relating to machining processes stored in the database 200. As shown in Fig. 8, the data table 500 includes general-purpose turning, drawing, and balance cutting as machining processes. Note that the machining processes are not limited to these three, and other machining processes may also be prepared in the data table 500.

[0094] In the data table 500, each of these three machining processes is associated with information on the target machining shape, information on the target workpiece material, information on required specifications, and information indicating the benefits. The information on the target machining shape includes information on whether it is compatible with each of the end face, outer diameter, and inner diameter. The information on the target workpiece material includes information on whether it is compatible with each of steel, non-ferrous material, difficult-to-cut material, and resin. The information on the required specifications includes information on each of the machine specifications and tool specifications. The machine specifications indicate, for example, the required number of tool posts. The information indicating the benefits includes information on the machining quality and machining time. In the data table 500, "OK" indicates compatibility. "GOOD" indicates compatibility and is more suitable than "OK." "NG" indicates incompatibility.

[0095] For example, in the case of machining the outer diameter and the workpiece is made of a difficult-to-cut material, general-purpose turning, drawing, and balance cutting are applicable. In particular, balance cutting is suitable in this case. Therefore, the information processing device 100 recommends balance cutting as the machining process with the highest ranking. More specifically, balance cutting requires two tool posts. Meanwhile, the user has input that the machine tool 400 has two tool posts as a specification. Therefore, the information processing device 100 can recommend balance cutting.

[0096] Furthermore, the information processing device 100 recommends drawing and general-purpose turning as second and third, respectively, in that order. The reason why general-purpose turning is ranked higher than drawing is because the information processing device 100 has determined, based on the advantages of the data table 500, that general-purpose turning takes less time to process a workpiece than drawing.

[0097] Specifically, the information processing device 100 displays balance cutting, drawing, and general-purpose turning along with a recommended order on the display 140 so that the user can select the desired order. The information processing device 100 accepts a user operation (input operation) to select one of balance cutting, drawing, and general-purpose turning. This selection determines the machining process for the workpiece. The information processing device 100 may also display the reason for determining the recommended order on the display 140 along with the recommended order.

[0098] It should be noted that input of the tool inventory is not necessarily required. In this case, the information processing device 100 may select a machining process that does not have a requirement in the tool specifications of the data table 500.

[0099] In this way, the method for determining a machining process may include the steps of: referring to the database 200, acquiring a plurality of recommended machining processes for each part (different parts of the workpiece) based on the machining shape of each part machining shape data, the material of the workpiece, and the specifications of the machine tool 400 that machines the workpiece; displaying the plurality of recommended machining processes on the display 140; accepting selection of one recommended machining process from the plurality of recommended machining processes; and determining the selected recommended machining process as the machining process. With this configuration, the user can freely select a machining process from the recommended machining processes.

[0100] (Second Modification) In the above, an example has been described in which one machine tool 400 is used as a machine tool for machining a workpiece. Below, a case where there are multiple machine tools capable of machining a workpiece will be described. Specifically, an example will be described in which a user has access to two machine tools with different specifications. In more detail, a configuration will be described in which the information processing device 100 proposes a recommended ranking of combinations of machine tools and machining processes.

[0101] Fig. 9 is a diagram showing a data table 600 relating to machine and tool specifications stored in database 200. In addition to data table 500, data table 600 is stored in database 200. As shown in Fig. 9, data table 600 associates machine specifications and tool specifications with each of the identifiers (machine IDs) of two machine tools.

[0102] The information processing device 100 determines the recommended order of machining processes for only "outer diameter" and "difficult-to-cut material" among the multiple items (conditions) listed in the data table 500 (FIG. 8) by referring only to the merits in the data table 500. In this example, the information processing device 100 determines that balance cutting, drawing, and general-purpose turning are first, second, and third, respectively, in that order.

[0103] Furthermore, the information processing device 100 determines the recommended order of combinations of machine tools and machining processes by referring to the data table 600. In this example, since two tool rests are required for balance cutting, it recommends performing balance cutting using machine #2, which has two tool rests, as the first recommendation.

[0104] Machine #1 cannot perform balance cutting. Machine #1 cannot perform drawing because it does not have a dedicated tool for drawing. Therefore, the information processing device 100 recommends that machine #2, which has a dedicated tool for drawing, perform drawing, which is ranked second in the processing process order.

[0105] General-purpose turning, which is ranked third in the machining process ranking, can be performed on either machine #1 or machine #2, so the information processing device 100 recommends performing general-purpose turning on machine #1 and performing general-purpose turning on machine #2, both of which are ranked third.

[0106] Specifically, the information processing device 100 displays on the display 140 the combination of machine #2 and balance cutting, the combination of machine #2 and drawing cutting, the combination of machine #1 and general-purpose turning cutting, and the combination of machine #2 and general-purpose turning cutting, along with their recommended rankings, in a selectable manner. The information processing device 100 accepts a user operation (input operation) to select one combination from these multiple combinations. This selection determines the machining process for the workpiece and the machine tool that will execute that machining process. Note that in this modified example as well, the information processing device 100 may display on the display 140 the reason for determining the recommended ranking along with the recommended ranking.

[0107] In this way, the information processing device 100 first refers to the data table 500 and acquires a plurality of recommended machining processes for each part based on the machining shape of each part machining shape data (more specifically, whether or not outer diameter machining is performed) and the material of the workpiece W (more specifically, whether or not it is a difficult-to-cut material). Next, the information processing device 100 refers to the data table 600 and determines one or more recommended combinations of a plurality of machine tools and a plurality of recommended machining processes based on the specifications of a plurality of machine tools.

[0108] Furthermore, the information processing device 100 displays the determined recommended combination on the display 140. The information processing device 100 accepts the selection of one recommended combination from among the recommended combinations. The information processing device 100 sets the recommended machining process included in the selected recommended combination to the machining process according to the machining type for each part described above. The information processing device 100 sets the machine tool included in the selected recommended combination as the machine tool that executes the recommended machining process included in the selected recommended combination.

[0109] With this configuration, when there are multiple machine tools, the user can freely select a combination of machining process and machine tool from the recommended combinations of machining process and machine tool.

[0110] The embodiments disclosed herein are merely examples and are not limited to the above. The scope of the present invention is defined by the claims, and it is intended to include all modifications within the meaning and scope of the claims.

[0111] This application is based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2024-187506 filed with the Japan Patent Office on October 24, 2024, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. [Explanation of symbols]

[0112] 1 Information processing system, 100 Information processing device, 110 Processor, 120 Memory, 121, 122 Software, 123 Post processor, 124 Simulation program, 125 Cutting force optimization program, 126 Automatic determination program, 127 Machining shape data, 130 Input device, 140 Display, 150 Communication interface, 160 Acquisition unit, 170 Division unit, 180 Determination unit, 200, 300 Database, 400 Machine tool, D1, D2, D3, D4 Reference data.

Claims

1. A computer-implemented information processing method, comprising: A step of acquiring overall machining shape data indicating the overall machining shape of the workpiece; Dividing the overall machining shape data into a plurality of partial machining shape data, each of which indicates a machining shape of a different portion of the workpiece; determining a machining type for each of the partial machining shape data based on a machining shape of each of the partial machining shape data; and determining a first machining process, a first tool used, and first machining conditions for each of the parts from the plurality of part-machining shape data in accordance with the machining type by referring to a first database that stores performance information including actual machining shape data, actual machining process data, actual tool use data, and actual machining condition data.

2. Each of the performance information further includes actual processing results, 2. The information processing method according to claim 1, wherein in the step of determining the first machining process, the first tool used, and the first machining conditions, the first machining process, the first tool used, and the first machining conditions are determined from the partial machining shape data and each of the actual machining results.

3. 2. The information processing method according to claim 1, further comprising the step of generating a first machining program based on first machining process data indicating the first machining process, first tool-usage data indicating the first tool, and first machining condition data indicating the first machining conditions.

4. generating a second machining program based on second machining process data, second tool-usage data, and second machining condition data input by a user; simulating the second machining program; 4. The information processing method according to claim 3, further comprising a step of storing simulation information including the second machining process data, the second tool-usage data, the second machining condition data, and a simulation result of the second machining program in the first database.

5. The step of determining the first machining process, the first tool to be used, and the first machining conditions includes: calculating a degree of coincidence between the partial machining shape data and a plurality of pieces of actual machining shape data stored in the first database; selecting, from the plurality of pieces of performance information stored in the first database, the performance information including the actual machining shape data whose degree of coincidence is equal to or greater than a threshold and is the highest; determining a machining process indicated by the actual machining process data included in the selected performance information as the first machining process; determining the tool indicated by the actually used tool data included in the selected performance information as the first used tool; The information processing method according to claim 1 , further comprising the step of determining the machining conditions indicated by the actual machining condition data included in the selected performance information as the first machining conditions.

6. 6. The information processing method according to claim 5, further comprising a step of determining the first machining process, the first tool used, and the first machining conditions by referring to a second database that is provided by a tool manufacturer and that stores recommended machining shapes and recommended machining processes for each of a plurality of tools provided by the tool manufacturer, when the first database does not contain the performance information including the actual machining shape data with which the degree of match is equal to or greater than a threshold.

7. In the step of determining the processing type, If the machining shape is a cylindrical shape, the machining type is determined to be hole machining; If the machining shape has a chamfered shape that is continuous with the cylindrical shape, the machining type is determined to be chamfered hole machining; 2. The information processing method according to claim 1, wherein if the machining shape is another cylindrical shape with a large diameter that is continuous with the cylindrical shape, the machining type is determined to be counterbore machining.

8. In the step of determining the processing type, If the machining shape is composed of one plane, the machining type is determined to be plane machining; 2. The information processing method according to claim 1, wherein if the machining shape is composed of a plurality of flat surfaces and curved surfaces, the machining type is determined to be a pocket.

9. The step of determining the first machining process includes: obtaining a plurality of recommended machining processes for each of the portions based on the machining shape of each of the portion machining shape data, the material of the workpiece, and the specifications of a machine tool that will machine the workpiece; displaying the plurality of recommended processing processes on a display; receiving a selection of one of the recommended processing processes from the plurality of recommended processing processes; The information processing method according to claim 1 , further comprising: determining the selected recommended processing process as the first processing process.

10. the step of determining the first machining process includes a step of acquiring a plurality of recommended machining processes for each of the portions based on a machining shape of each of the portion machining shape data and a material of the workpiece; determining one or more recommended combinations of the plurality of machine tools and the plurality of recommended machining processes based on specifications of the plurality of machine tools; displaying the determined recommended combination on a display; and receiving a selection of one of the recommended combinations from the recommended combinations, In the step of determining the first processing process, the recommended processing process included in the selected recommended combination is determined as the first processing process; The information processing method according to claim 1 , further comprising the step of setting the machine tool included in the selected recommended combination as the machine tool that will execute the first machining process.

11. an acquisition means for acquiring overall machining shape data indicating the overall machining shape of the workpiece; a dividing means for dividing the entire machining shape data into a plurality of partial machining shape data each indicating a machining shape of a different portion of the workpiece; a determining means for determining a machining type for each of the partial machining shape data based on the machining shape of each of the partial machining shape data, The determination means refers to a database that stores performance information including actual machining shape data, actual machining process data, actually used tool data, and actual machining condition data, and further determines a machining process, used tool, and machining condition for each part according to the machining type based on the plurality of part machining shape data.

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