Program editing device, machine tool, and program editing method

Abstract

This program editing device (90) comprises: a mist amount acquiring unit (92) that acquires a mist amount (MA1); a period detecting unit (94) that detects a first period (PE1) during which a mist collector (34) is operating while the mist amount (MA1) is smaller than a first threshold (TH1); and a program editing unit (96) that automatically edits a machining program (72) so that the mist collector (34) does not operate in the first period (PE1).

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a program editing device, a machine tool, and a program editing method. [Background technology]

[0002] A mist collector collects mist generated within the machining area of ​​a machine tool (see also JP 2012-76006 A). By collecting mist within the machining area, the mist collector prevents the mist from leaking outside the machining area. Mist is coolant in the form of fine particles suspended in the air. Summary of the Invention

[0003] In order to reliably prevent the mist from leaking outside the processing area, the mist collector is often operated for a long period of time, but operating the mist collector for a long period of time consumes a large amount of power.

[0004] The present invention aims to solve the above-mentioned problems.

[0005] A first aspect of the present invention is a program editing device that edits a processing program for controlling the operation of a mist collector of a machine tool that includes a processing machine that processes a workpiece and a mist collector that collects mist present in the processing area of ​​the processing machine, the program editing device comprising: a mist amount acquisition unit that acquires the amount of mist collected by the mist collector based on the detection signal of a first mist sensor; a period detection unit that detects a first period during which the mist collector is operating with the mist amount less than a first threshold value; and a program editing unit that automatically edits the processing program so that the mist collector does not operate during the first period.

[0006] A second aspect of the present invention is a machine tool comprising the program editing device according to the first aspect, the machining machine, and the mist collector, and further comprising a control device that controls the machining machine and the mist collector based on the machining program.

[0007] A third aspect of the present invention is a program editing method for editing a machining program for controlling the operation of a mist collector of a machine tool equipped with a machining machine for machining a workpiece and a mist collector for collecting mist present in the machining area of ​​the machining machine, the program editing method including a mist amount acquisition step for acquiring the amount of mist collected by the mist collector based on the detection signal of a first mist sensor, a first period detection step for detecting a first period during which the mist collector is operating with the mist amount less than a first threshold value, and a program editing step in which a computer automatically edits the machining program so that the mist collector does not operate during the first period.

[0008] According to the present invention, it is possible to reduce the power consumption of a machine tool equipped with a processing machine and a mist collector. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a machine tool according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a control device (program editing device), a driving device, and a plurality of motors. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a control device (program editing device), a driving device, and a plurality of motors. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a first graph illustrating the transition of the amount of mist over time. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a second graph illustrating the transition of the mist amount over time. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a first graph illustrating the time transition of the retention amount. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a second graph illustrating the time transition of the retention amount. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating a program editing method according to the embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a flow chart illustrating the determining step. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram of a machine tool according to the first modification. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a block diagram of a control device according to the second modification. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a block diagram of a control device according to the third modification. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a block diagram of a program editing device according to the fourth modification. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a flowchart illustrating a program editing method according to the fifth modification. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a third graph illustrating the time transition of the retention amount. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a fourth graph illustrating the time transition of the retention amount. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] [Embodiment] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a machine tool 10 according to an embodiment.

[0011] The X and Y directions shown in FIG. 1 are parallel to a horizontal plane. The X and Y directions are perpendicular to each other. The Z direction shown in FIG. 1 is parallel to the direction of gravity. Therefore, the Z direction is perpendicular to the X and Y directions. However, the Z direction shown in FIG. 1 is opposite to the direction of gravity.

[0012] The machine tool 10 includes a processing machine 12, a control device 14, a coolant supplier 32, and a mist collector 34.

[0013] The processing machine 12 is a machine that processes a workpiece using a tool 16. The processing machine 12 includes a spindle 18, a spindle head 20, a column 22, a base 24, a table 26, a table drive unit 28, and a cover 30.

[0014] A tool holder 36 is attached to the spindle 18 (see FIG. 1). The tool holder 36 is detachable from the spindle 18. The tool holder 36 holds a tool 16. The tool 16 is, for example, a tool bar, a drill, an end mill, a milling cutter, or the like.

[0015] The processing machine 12 further includes a tool magazine 38. The tool magazine 38 detachably holds a plurality of tools 16. One of the plurality of tools 16 held in the tool magazine 38 is attached to the tool holder 36.

[0016] The spindle head 20 supports the spindle 18. The spindle head 20 also includes a spindle motor 21 that rotates the spindle 18. The spindle motor 21 is, for example, a spindle motor. The spindle motor 21 includes a shaft (not shown) and an encoder 23.

[0017] The shaft of the spindle motor 21 rotates when power is supplied to the spindle motor 21. The spindle 18 rotates in response to the rotation of the shaft of the spindle motor 21. The rotation of the spindle 18 rotates the tool 16 attached to the spindle 18 via the tool holder 36.

[0018] The encoder 23 is a rotary encoder and outputs a detection signal corresponding to the rotational position of the shaft of the spindle motor 21.

[0019] The column 22 is supported by a base 24. The column 22 supports the spindle head 20. The column 22 also includes a column motor 25. The column motor 25 is, for example, a servo motor. The column motor 25 includes a shaft (not shown) and an encoder 27.

[0020] The shaft of the column motor 25 rotates when power is supplied to the column motor 25. The column 22 moves in the Z direction in response to the rotation of the shaft of the column motor 25. As the column 22 moves in the Z direction, the main shaft 18 supported by the column 22 moves in the Z direction.

[0021] The encoder 27 is a rotary encoder that outputs a detection signal corresponding to the rotational position of the shaft of the column motor 25.

[0022] The base 24 is provided on an installation surface. The installation surface is, for example, a factory floor. The installation surface may also be a support surface of a stand provided on the floor. The installation surface extends, for example, parallel to a horizontal plane. The base 24 may have a plurality of legs 24a. Each leg 24a may be, for example, a caster, a jack, or the like.

[0023] The table driving unit is supported by the base 24. The table driving unit includes a plurality of feed shaft motors 47 (47X, 47Y), a first slide unit , a saddle 44, and a second slide unit .

[0024] The plurality of feed axis motors 47 include a Y-axis motor 47Y and an X-axis motor 47X. Each of the Y-axis motor 47Y and the X-axis motor 47X is, for example, a servo motor. The Y-axis motor 47Y includes a rotating shaft 49Y. The X-axis motor 47X includes a rotating shaft 49X.

[0025] The first slide portion 42 is provided on the base 24. The first slide portion 42 includes, for example, a guide rail extending in the Y direction. The first slide portion 42 supports a saddle 44.

[0026] The saddle 44 is connected to a Y-axis motor 47Y. The saddle 44 moves in the Y direction in response to the driving of the Y-axis motor 47Y. The saddle 44 moves while being guided by the first slide portion 42.

[0027] The second slide portion 46 is provided on the saddle 44. The second slide portion 46 includes, for example, a guide rail extending in the X direction. The second slide portion 46 supports the table 26.

[0028] The table 26 supports a workpiece (not shown) below the main shaft 18. The table 26 is connected to an X-axis motor 47X. The table 26 moves in the X direction as the X-axis motor 47X is driven. The table 26 moves while being guided by a second slide portion 46.

[0029] The cover 30 covers the spindle 18, the spindle head 20, the column 22, the base 24, the table 26, and the table drive unit 28. As a result, the cover 30 forms a processing area 48. The workpiece is processed within the processing area 48.

[0030] The cover 30 further includes a door (not shown) and a window (not shown). Through the open door, the operator can carry in and out the workpiece into the processing area 48. The operator can also easily check the condition inside the processing area 48 through the window.

[0031] The coolant supplier 32 is a device that supplies coolant to the processing area 48. The coolant supplier 32 includes a coolant tank 50, a nozzle 52, a supply pipe 54, and a pump 56.

[0032] The coolant tank 50 stores the coolant and is provided outside the processing area 48.

[0033] The nozzle 52 is a discharge portion that discharges the coolant. The nozzle 52 is disposed within the processing area 48. The coolant supplier 32 may include a plurality of nozzles 52.

[0034] The supply pipe 54 is a pipe that connects the coolant tank 50 and the nozzles 52. The coolant supplier 32 may be provided with a plurality of supply pipes 54. The number of supply pipes 54 is determined, for example, according to the number of nozzles 52. The supply pipe 54 connects the coolant tank 50 and the nozzles 52.

[0035] The pump 56 is connected to the supply pipe 54. The pump 56 pumps up the coolant in the coolant tank 50 and sends it to the nozzle 52. This causes the coolant to be discharged from the nozzle 52 into the processing area 48.

[0036] The coolant discharged into the machining area 48 cools the tool 16 and the workpiece. When machining is performed in the machining area 48, coolant mist is generated. The mist may leak out of the machining area 48 through small gaps that occur in the machining machine 12.

[0037] The mist collector 34 is a device that collects mist within the processing area 48. The mist collector 34 is provided outside the processing area 48. The mist collector 34 is connected to the cover 30 via a duct 58. The mist collector 34 collects the mist by sucking in the air within the processing area 48. This prevents the mist from leaking out of the processing area 48.

[0038] When the tool 16 cuts the workpiece, fine chips are generated as dust within the machining area 48. This dust, like the mist, may leak out of the machining area 48 through small gaps that occur in the processing machine 12. The mist collector 34 may collect not only the mist but also the dust by sucking in the air within the machining area 48. This also prevents the dust from leaking out of the machining area 48.

[0039] The mist collector 34 may be connected to the coolant tank 50. This allows the mist collected by the mist collector 34 to be returned to the coolant tank 50 as coolant.

[0040] When the mist collector 34 and the coolant tank 50 are connected, it is preferable that the mist collector 34 and the coolant tank 50 are connected via a filtering device (filter) not shown. The filtering device removes impurities from the coolant sent from the mist collector 34 to the coolant tank 50. By connecting the mist collector 34 and the coolant tank 50 via a filtering device, clean coolant can be returned from the mist collector 34 to the coolant tank 50. The impurities in the coolant are, for example, chips collected together with the mist.

[0041] The control device 14 is a computer that controls the processing machine 12, the coolant supplier 32, and the mist collector 34. The control device 14 is, for example, a numerical control device. The control device 14 will be described in more detail later.

[0042] The machine tool 10 further includes a drive device 82, a first mist sensor 84A, a second mist sensor 84B, a temperature sensor 86, a deflection amount sensor 88, and a program editing device 90. The program editing device 90 is provided in the control device 14.

[0043] The drive device 82 is provided with a plurality of amplifiers. The plurality of amplifiers include, for example, an amplifier for the spindle motor 21, an amplifier for the column motor 25, an amplifier for the Y-axis motor 47Y, and an amplifier for the X-axis motor 47X. In the following, when it is not necessary to distinguish between the spindle motor 21, the column motor 25, the Y-axis motor 47Y, and the X-axis motor 47X, the spindle motor 21, the column motor 25, the Y-axis motor 47Y, and the X-axis motor 47X will also be simply referred to as motor MO. In the following, when it is not necessary to distinguish between the encoder 23, the encoder 27, and the encoder 29, the encoder 23, the encoder 27, and the encoder 29 will also be simply referred to as encoder EN.

[0044] The control device 14 outputs commands to the drive devices 82 to drive each motor MO based on a machining program 72 (described later). The drive devices 82 supply power to each motor MO based on the commands output by the control device 14. Each motor MO is driven using the power supplied from the drive devices 82.

[0045] The encoder EN outputs a detection signal in response to driving of the motor MO equipped with the encoder EN. The drive device 82 calculates the error between the drive state of the motor MO and the command of the control device 14 based on the detection signal supplied from the encoder EN. Specifically, for example, the drive device 82 calculates the error between the amount of rotation of the shaft 49X instructed by the control device 14 and the actual amount of rotation of the shaft 49X. The drive device 82 adjusts the amount of power supplied to the motor MO so as to reduce the error. The drive device 82 adjusts the amount of power supplied to each motor MO so as to reduce the error in each motor MO. Note that the control device 14 may calculate the error.

[0046] The first mist sensor 84A outputs a detection signal corresponding to a mist amount MA1, which is the amount of mist collected by the mist collector 34. In this embodiment, the amount of mist or the mist amount is, more specifically, a mist concentration.

[0047] The first mist sensor 84A is provided outside the processing area 48. More specifically, the first mist sensor 84A is provided on a recovery path for the mist collected by the mist collector 34. For example, as shown in FIG. 1, the first mist sensor 84A is provided in the duct 58.

[0048] The second mist sensor 84B is provided in the processing area 48. The second mist sensor 84B outputs a detection signal corresponding to the amount of mist remaining in the processing area 48. Unless otherwise specified, the above-mentioned amount of mist remaining will also be referred to as the amount of remaining mist MA2 in the following description. The amount of remaining mist MA2 is the amount of mist remaining in the processing area 48. More specifically, the amount of remaining mist MA2 is the mist concentration in the processing area 48.

[0049] The temperature sensor 86 is provided in the processing area 48. The temperature sensor 86 outputs a detection signal corresponding to the temperature in the processing area 48.

[0050] The runout amount sensor 88 outputs a detection signal corresponding to the runout amount of the rotating spindle 18. The runout amount of the spindle 18 is the amplitude of the runout of the spindle 18 while the spindle 18 is rotating. More precisely, the runout amount of the spindle 18 is the amplitude of the rotation axis of the tool 16 that rotates together with the spindle 18.

[0051] The shake amount sensor 88 includes, for example, a vibration sensor, a camera (image sensor), etc. When the shake amount sensor 88 is a vibration sensor, the vibration sensor is provided, for example, on the main shaft 18. When the vibration sensor is provided on the main shaft 18, the shake amount of the main shaft 18 is calculated based on the vibration of the main shaft 18, for example.

[0052] When the shake amount sensor 88 is a camera, the camera is installed so that the spindle 18 (tool 16) is located within the imaging range of the camera. It is preferable that the imaging range of the camera includes the tool 16 attached to the spindle 18. When a camera is used as the shake amount sensor 88, the amount of shake of the spindle 18 is calculated based on the imaging data of the camera.

[0053] 2 and 3 are block diagrams showing the control device 14 (program editing device 90), the drive device 82, and a plurality of motors MO. Fig. 2 shows an example in which a pre-edit program 72A (described later) is used as the machining program 72. Fig. 3 shows an example in which a post-edit program 72B (described later) is used as the machining program 72.

[0054] The control device 14 includes a display unit 60 , an operation unit 62 , a storage unit 64 , and a calculation unit 66 .

[0055] The display unit 60 is a display device that includes a display screen 60d. The display unit 60 is, for example, a liquid crystal display device or an OEL (Organic Electro-Luminescence) display device.

[0056] The operation unit 62 is an input device that receives instructions from an operator to the control device 14. The operation unit 62 includes, for example, an operation panel 62a, a touch panel 62b, etc. The touch panel 62b is provided on the display screen 60d. The operation unit 62 (operation panel 62a) may also include a keyboard, a mouse, etc.

[0057] The storage unit 64 may be configured with a volatile memory (not shown) and a non-volatile memory (not shown). Examples of the volatile memory include a random access memory (RAM). Examples of the non-volatile memory include a read-only memory (ROM) and a flash memory. Data and the like may be stored in the volatile memory, for example. Programs, data tables, maps, and the like may be stored in the non-volatile memory, for example. At least a portion of the storage unit 64 may be provided in the processor, integrated circuit, or the like described above. The storage unit 64 stores the control program 70, the machining program 72, a first threshold value TH1, and a second threshold value TH2.

[0058] The control program 70 is a program for causing the control device 14 to execute the program editing method according to this embodiment. The program editing method will be described in more detail later.

[0059] The machining program 72 includes content for the machine tool 10 to perform predetermined machining. More specifically, the machining program 72 includes a plurality of control commands for controlling the machining tool 12, the coolant supplier 32, and the mist collector 34.

[0060] For example, as described above, the machine tool 10 is provided with a plurality of motors MO for machining the workpiece by the machining device 12. The machining program 72 includes a plurality of control commands for causing each motor MO to perform a predetermined operation.

[0061] The multiple control commands for controlling the mist collector 34 include, for example, a start command and a stop command. The start command is a control command for starting the mist collector 34. For example, the start command is a command for starting the mist collector 34 when a predetermined time has elapsed since the processing machine 12 started processing. The stop command is a control command for stopping the mist collector 34.

[0062] The plurality of control commands for controlling the coolant supplier 32 include, for example, a control command for starting the coolant supplier 32 (pump 56) and a control command for stopping the coolant supplier 32 (pump 56). Similar to the mist collector 34, the coolant supplier 32 may be controlled according to the passage of machining time or the progress of machining.

[0063] The first threshold value TH1 is, for example, an upper limit value of the mist amount MA1 at which mist does not leak outside the machining area 48 even when the mist collector 34 is stopped. The second threshold value TH2 is, for example, an upper limit value of the retention amount MA2 at which mist does not leak outside the machining area 48 even when the mist collector 34 is stopped. The first threshold value TH1 and the second threshold value TH2 are determined in advance by an operator or the like based on, for example, experiments. The first threshold value TH1 and the second threshold value TH2 determined by the operator or the like are input to the control device 14 via, for example, the operation unit 62. Note that the first threshold value TH1 and the second threshold value TH2 may also be set based on information provided by the manufacturer of the machine tool 10, for example.

[0064] The calculation unit 66 may be configured by a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), etc. In other words, the calculation unit 66 may be configured by a processing circuitry.

[0065] The calculation unit 66 includes a processing control unit 74 and a collector control unit 76. The processing control unit 74 and the collector control unit 76 are realized by the calculation unit 66 executing a control program 70. At least a part of the processing control unit 74 and the collector control unit 76 may be realized by an integrated circuit such as an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) or an FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array). At least a part of the processing control unit 74 and the collector control unit 76 may be configured by an electronic circuit including discrete devices.

[0066] The machining control unit 74 controls the processing machine 12 (drive device 82) and the coolant supplier 32 based on the machining program 72. As a result, the machining control unit 74 performs predetermined machining based on the machining program 72. For example, the machining control unit 74 issues a command to the drive device 82 based on the machining program 72. As a result, the drive device 82 controls multiple motors MO based on the command from the machining control unit 74.

[0067] The collector control unit 76 controls the mist collector 34 based on the machining program 72. For example, the collector control unit 76 controls the mist collector 34 based on the above-mentioned start-up command. This starts up the mist collector 34. The started-up mist collector 34 collects the mist within the machining area 48.

[0068] The calculation unit 66 further includes a mist amount acquisition unit 92, a period detection unit 94, a program editing unit 96, a load acquisition unit 98, a temperature acquisition unit 100, a swing amount acquisition unit 102, and a determination unit 104. The load acquisition unit 98, the temperature acquisition unit 100, the swing amount acquisition unit 102, and the determination unit 104 constitute the program editing device 90. The mist amount acquisition unit 92, the period detection unit 94, the program editing unit 96, the load acquisition unit 98, the temperature acquisition unit 100, the swing amount acquisition unit 102, and the determination unit 104 are realized by the calculation unit 66 executing the control program 70. However, at least a portion of the mist amount acquisition unit 92, the period detection unit 94, the program editing unit 96, the load acquisition unit 98, the temperature acquisition unit 100, the swing amount acquisition unit 102, and the judgment unit 104 may be configured using the above-mentioned integrated circuits, discrete devices, etc.

[0069] The mist amount acquisition unit 92 acquires information indicating the mist amount MA1. The mist amount MA1 is the amount of mist collected by the mist collector 34. In other words, the mist amount MA1 is the amount of mist that is sucked out of the processing area 48 and flows toward the mist collector 34. The mist amount acquisition unit 92 acquires information indicating the mist amount MA1 based on a detection signal from the first mist sensor 84A. The memory unit 64 may store the information indicating the mist amount MA1.

[0070] Fig. 4 is a first graph illustrating the time transition of the mist amount MA1. The vertical axis of Fig. 4 represents the mist amount MA1. As described above, the mist amount MA1 is the amount of mist detected by, for example, the first mist sensor 84A provided in the duct 58. The horizontal axis of Fig. 4 represents time.

[0071] The mist amount acquisition unit 92 sequentially acquires information indicating the mist amount MA1. This results in, for example, the graph shown in FIG. 4. FIG. 4 shows time t1, time t2, time t3, and a predetermined time TM. Time t1 indicates the start time of processing performed by the processing control unit 74. Time t2 indicates the end time of processing performed by the processing control unit 74. Time t3 indicates a time that is the predetermined time TM after time t2.

[0072] FIG. 4 further shows an operation period PEA. The operation period PEA is a period during which the mist collector 34 is driven based on the machining program 72. As shown in FIG. 4, the operation period PEA is a period from time t1 to time t3. That is, as shown in FIG. 4, the mist collector 34 continues to operate for a predetermined time TM even after the machining control unit 74 has finished machining. By intentionally continuing to operate the mist collector 34 for the predetermined time TM even after the machining control unit 74 has finished machining, insufficient collection of mist can be suppressed.

[0073] The period detection unit 94 detects the first period PE1. The first period PE1 is a period during which the mist amount MA1 is less than the first threshold TH1 (condition 1-1) and the mist collector 34 is operating (condition 1-2).

[0074] The period detection unit 94 detects the first period PE1 based on the operating state of the mist collector 34, the mist amount MA1, and the first threshold value TH1. The operating state of the mist collector 34 is information indicating whether the mist collector 34 is operating or stopped. The period detection unit 94 can acquire the operating state of the mist collector 34 based on, for example, the history of control performed by the collector control unit 76. The history of control performed by the collector control unit 76 is stored, for example, in the memory unit 64 as appropriate.

[0075] In the example shown in Fig. 4, two first periods PE1 are detected. For the sake of distinction, in Fig. 4 and the following description, one of the two first periods PE1 is also referred to as a first period PE11. In contrast, the other of the two first periods PE1 is also referred to as a first period PE12.

[0076] The storage unit 64 may store information indicating the detected first period PE1. The storage unit 64 may also store information indicating the actuation period PEA.

[0077] Based on the detected first period PE1, the program editing unit 96 automatically edits the machining program 72. More specifically, the program editing unit 96 automatically edits the machining program 72 so that the mist collector 34 does not operate during the period corresponding to the first period PE1 within the period from time t1 to time t3.

[0078] The machining program 72 obtained by editing by the program editing unit 96 is also referred to as an edited program 72B. In contrast, the machining program 72 before being edited by the program editing unit 96 is also referred to as a pre-edit program 72A.

[0079] 5 is a second graph illustrating the time transition of the mist amount MA1. As described above, the mist amount MA1 is, for example, the amount of mist detected by the first mist sensor 84A provided in the duct 58. The format of this graph conforms to the format of the graph in FIG.

[0080] When the edited program 72B is executed, a graph such as that shown in FIG. 5 is obtained. FIG. 5 shows a time ta, a time tb, and an operation period PEB. The time ta in FIG. 5 corresponds to the time ta in FIG. 4. The time ta in FIG. 4 is the time when the mist amount MA1, which was smaller than the first threshold value TH1, rises to the first threshold value TH1. The time tb in FIG. 5 corresponds to the time tb in FIG. 4. The time tb in FIG. 4 is the time when the mist amount MA1, which was larger than the first threshold value TH1, falls to the first threshold value TH1. The operation period PEB indicates the period during which the mist collector 34 is driven based on the edited program 72B.

[0081] The operating period PEB is the period from time ta to time tb. The period from time ta to time tb is part of the period from time t1 to time t3. Therefore, the operating period PEB is shorter than the operating period PEA. By shortening the operating time of the mist collector 34, the power consumption of the mist collector 34 is reduced. By reducing the power consumption of the mist collector 34, the power consumption of the machine tool 10 is also reduced.

[0082] The period from time t1 to time t3 other than the operation period PEB is a period in which the mist collector 34 is not in operation. The risk of mist leaking outside the processing area 48 during the period in which the mist collector 34 is not in operation decreases as the first threshold value TH1 decreases.

[0083] As described above, the period detection unit 94 may detect multiple first periods PE1. However, it is more preferable that each first period PE1 is a continuous period that lasts for a predetermined time or longer. In other words, even if the mist collector 34 is operating while the mist amount MA1 is less than the first threshold TH1, if the period is short, it is preferable that the period not be treated as a first period PE1. This prevents an increase in the frequency with which the mist collector 34 is turned on and off. As a result, the control load on the machine tool 10 is reduced.

[0084] The load acquisition unit 98 acquires information indicating the load of at least one predetermined motor MO among the multiple motors MO. The load acquisition unit 98 acquires load information, which is information indicating the load of the motor MO, based on a detection signal output by a load sensor in accordance with the load of the motor MO. The load of the motor MO is, for example, the amount of power consumed by the motor MO. Therefore, the load acquisition unit 98 may acquire information indicating the amount of power consumed by at least one predetermined motor MO among the multiple motors MO as information indicating the load.

[0085] The power consumption of each of the multiple motors MO is adjusted by the above-described drive device 82 based on the detection signal of the encoder EN provided in each motor MO. In this case, the load acquisition unit 98 can acquire information indicating the power consumption of each motor MO from the drive device 82. Each encoder EN used to adjust the power consumption functions as a load sensor.

[0086] The load acquisition unit 98 sequentially acquires load information during the period (from time t1 to time t2) when the processing control unit 74 is performing processing. The storage unit 64 cumulatively stores the load information sequentially acquired by the load acquisition unit 98.

[0087] The temperature acquisition unit 100 acquires information indicating the temperature in the processing area 48 based on the detection signal of the temperature sensor 86. The temperature acquisition unit 100 sequentially acquires information indicating the temperature during the period (from time t1 to time t2) when the processing control unit 74 is performing processing. The storage unit 64 cumulatively stores the information indicating the temperature sequentially acquired by the temperature acquisition unit 100.

[0088] The runout amount acquisition unit 102 acquires information indicating the runout amount of the spindle 18 based on the detection signal of the runout amount sensor 88. The runout amount acquisition unit 102 sequentially acquires information indicating the runout amount during the period (from time t1 to time t2) when the machining control unit 74 is performing machining. The storage unit 64 cumulatively stores the information indicating the runout amount.

[0089] The determination unit 104 determines whether or not a predetermined condition is met in the machining performed after the program editing unit 96 edits the machining program 72. When at least one of conditions 2-1 to 2-4 described in order below is met, the determination unit 104 determines that the predetermined condition is met.

[0090] Condition 2-1 is that the second load LO2 is greater than the first load LO1. It is preferable to add a further condition to condition 2-1 that the difference between the first load LO1 and the second load LO2 is equal to or greater than a predetermined value.

[0091] The first load LO1 is the load during machining based on the pre-edit program 72A. The second load LO2 is the load during machining based on the post-edit program 72B. Each of the first load LO1 and the second load LO2 may be the load during a predetermined period (predetermined process) of the machining period, which is the period during which machining is performed. As described above, the load is the load (power consumption) of at least one predetermined motor MO among the multiple motors MO provided in the machine tool 10. To determine whether the above condition 2-1 is met, the determination unit 104, for example, compares the maximum value of the first load LO1 with the maximum value of the second load LO2. The maximum value of the load of a motor MO is the instantaneous maximum power consumption of that motor MO.

[0092] By adding the requirement for the fulfillment of the above condition 2-1 that the difference between the first load LO1 and the second load LO2 be equal to or greater than a predetermined value, an error between the first load LO1 and the second load LO2 is tolerated. By allowing the error between the first load LO1 and the second load LO2, it is possible to prevent the above condition 2-1 from being determined to be fulfilled even when there is not much difference between the first load LO1 and the second load LO2.

[0093] Condition 2-2 is that the second temperature change amount dT2 is greater than the first temperature change amount dT1. It is preferable to add to condition 2-2 a condition that the difference between the first temperature change amount dT1 and the second temperature change amount dT2 is equal to or greater than a predetermined value.

[0094] The first temperature change amount dT1 is the amount of change in temperature in the processing area 48 when processing is being performed based on the pre-edit program 72A. The second temperature change amount dT2 is the amount of change in temperature in the processing area 48 when processing is being performed based on the post-edit program 72B. Each of the first temperature change amount dT1 and the second temperature change amount dT2 may be the amount of change in temperature in the processing area 48 during a predetermined period (predetermined process) of the processing period, which is the period during which processing is being performed.

[0095] By adding the requirement for the above condition 2-2 to be satisfied that the difference between the first temperature change amount dT1 and the second temperature change amount dT2 is equal to or greater than a predetermined value, an error between the first temperature change amount dT1 and the second temperature change amount dT2 is tolerated. By allowing an error between the first temperature change amount dT1 and the second temperature change amount dT2, it is possible to prevent the above condition 2-2 from being determined to be satisfied even when there is not much difference between the first temperature change amount dT1 and the second temperature change amount dT2.

[0096] Condition 2-3 is that the second shake amount RA2 is greater than the first shake amount RA1. It is preferable to add a condition to condition 2-3 that the difference between the first shake amount RA1 and the second shake amount RA2 is equal to or greater than a predetermined value.

[0097] The first runout amount RA1 is the runout amount of the spindle 18 when machining is performed based on the pre-edit program 72A. The second runout amount RA2 is the runout amount of the spindle 18 when machining is performed based on the edited program 72B. Each of the first runout amount RA1 and the second runout amount RA2 may be the runout amount of the spindle 18 during a predetermined period (predetermined process) of the machining period during which machining is performed. To determine whether the above condition 2-3 is met, the determination unit 104, for example, compares the maximum value of the first runout amount RA1 with the maximum value of the second runout amount RA2.

[0098] By adding the requirement for the above condition 2-3 to be met that the difference between the first shake amount RA1 and the second shake amount RA2 be equal to or greater than a predetermined value, an error between the first shake amount RA1 and the second shake amount RA2 is tolerated. By allowing an error between the first shake amount RA1 and the second shake amount RA2, it is possible to prevent the above condition 2-3 from being determined to be met even when there is not much difference between the first shake amount RA1 and the second shake amount RA2.

[0099] Condition 2-4 is that the second period PE2 (PE22) when processed based on the post-edit program 72B is longer than the second period PE2 (PE21) when processed based on the pre-edit program 72A. It is preferable to add to condition 2-4 a condition that the difference between the second period PE21 when processed based on the pre-edit program 72A and the second period PE22 when processed based on the post-edit program 72B is equal to or greater than a predetermined value.

[0100] The second period PE2 is a period during processing during which the accumulation amount MA2 is equal to or greater than the second threshold value TH2. The second period PE2 is detected by the period detection unit 94 based on the accumulation amount MA2 and the second threshold value TH2. The accumulation amount MA2 used by the period detection unit 94 to detect the second period PE2 is acquired by the mist amount acquisition unit 92 based on the detection signal of the second mist sensor 84B. Note that the second period PE2 may include at least a portion of the period from time t2 (see FIG. 4) to time t3 (see FIG. 4).

[0101] Fig. 6 is a first graph illustrating the time transition of the accumulation amount MA2. The vertical axis of Fig. 6 represents the accumulation amount MA2. As described above, the accumulation amount MA2 is the amount of mist remaining in the processing area 48. The horizontal axis of Fig. 6 represents time.

[0102] The second period PE21 is a period during which the accumulation amount MA2 is equal to or greater than the second threshold value TH2 when machining is performed based on the pre-edit program 72A. FIG. 6 illustrates the time progression of the accumulation amount MA2 and the second period PE21 when the pre-edit program 72A is used. As shown in FIG. 6, the accumulation amount MA2 increases after machining begins. This is because mist is generated in the machining area 48 as the workpiece is machined. Also, as shown in FIG. 6, the accumulation amount MA2 decreases after time t1. This is because the mist collector 34 begins to collect the mist in the machining area 48 at time t1.

[0103] 6 starts to increase immediately after the start of machining and reaches the second threshold value TH2 before time t1. However, depending on the contents of the pre-edit program 72A, the retention amount MA2 does not exceed the second threshold value TH2 until machining is completed (see the modified example described below and also FIG. 15). In that case, the length of the second period PE21 is zero.

[0104] 7 is a second graph illustrating the time transition of the accumulation amount MA2. The format of this graph conforms to the format of the graph in FIG.

[0105] The second period PE22 is a period during which the accumulation amount MA2 is equal to or greater than the second threshold value TH2 when machining is performed based on the edited program 72B. FIG. 7 illustrates the time progression of the accumulation amount MA2 and the second period PE22 when the edited program 72B is used. The accumulation amount MA2 in FIG. 7 increases after machining starts, as in the case of FIG. 6. This is because mist is generated in the machining area 48 as the workpiece is machined. As shown in FIG. 7, the accumulation amount MA2 also increases during the period from time t1 to time ta. This is because the mist collector 34 is not in operation during the period from time t1 to time ta due to the editing of the machining program 72. As shown in FIG. 7, the accumulation amount MA2 decreases after time ta.

[0106] By adding the requirement for the above condition 2-4 to be satisfied that the difference between the second periods PE21 and PE22 is equal to or greater than a predetermined value, an error between the second periods PE21 and PE22 is allowed. By allowing an error between the second periods PE21 and PE22, it is possible to prevent the above condition 2-4 from being determined to be satisfied when there is not much difference between the second periods PE21 and PE22.

[0107] The second period PE2 is preferably a period that continues for a predetermined time or more. That is, even if the accumulation amount MA2 is equal to or greater than the second threshold TH2, if the period is short, it is preferable not to treat it as the second period PE2.

[0108] If at least one of the above conditions 2-1 to 2-4 is met, the program editing unit 96 returns the machining program 72 to its pre-edit state. That is, if the determination unit 104 determines that a predetermined condition is met, the program editing unit 96 returns the machining program 72 used during machining from the post-edit program 72B to the pre-edit program 72A.

[0109] The reason why the machining program 72 used during machining is returned from the post-edit program 72B to the pre-edit program 72A when the predetermined condition is met is as follows.

[0110] When machining is being performed, the air in the machining area 48 is heated by the heat generated in accordance with the machining. The heated air in the machining area 48 is discharged together with mist to the outside of the machining area 48 by the operation of the mist collector 34. In other words, the mist collector 34 not only collects the mist but also serves to ventilate the machining area 48.

[0111] The program editing unit 96 edits the machining program 72 to shorten the operating period of the mist collector 34. When the operating period of the mist collector 34 is shortened, the power consumption of the mist collector 34 is reduced as described above, but heat tends to build up in the machining area 48.

[0112] Heat within the machining area 48 causes thermal expansion of items and equipment provided in the processing machine 12. For example, heat within the machining area 48 causes thermal expansion of the workpiece, tool 16, etc. The thermal expansion of the workpiece, tool 16, etc. causes fluctuations in the way the tool 16 bites into the workpiece. The fluctuations in the way the tool 16 bites into the workpiece cause fluctuations in the amount of power consumed by the multiple motors MO provided in the processing machine 12. As a result, the amount of power consumed by the machine tool 10 when performing processing based on the edited program 72B may be greater than the amount of power consumed by the machine tool 10 when performing processing based on the pre-edit program 72A. Furthermore, the thermal expansion of the workpiece, tool 16, etc. causes fluctuations in processing accuracy.

[0113] For the above reasons, when the above conditions 2-1, 2-2, etc. are met, performing machining using the pre-edit program 72A is more likely to reduce power consumption of the machine tool 10 than performing machining using the post-edit program 72B. Therefore, in this embodiment, when the above conditions 2-1, 2-2, etc. are met, the machining program 72 used during machining is returned from the post-edit program 72B to the pre-edit program 72A.

[0114] Furthermore, fluctuations in cutting load also affect the amount of runout of the spindle 18. Therefore, in this embodiment, even when the above condition 2-3 is met, the machining program 72 used during machining is returned from the edited program 72B to the pre-edited program 72A.

[0115] Furthermore, when mist remains within the processing area 48, heat is more likely to build up within the processing area 48 than when there is no mist within the processing area 48. Also, an increase in the amount of mist remaining within the processing area 48 increases the risk of mist leaking outside the processing area 48. In light of this, in this embodiment, the post-edit program 72B is returned to the pre-edit program 72A even when the above conditions 2-4 are met.

[0116] FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating a program editing method according to the embodiment.

[0117] The program editing device 90 can execute a program editing method exemplified in FIG. 8, for example. The program editing method includes a mist amount acquisition step S1, a first accumulation amount acquisition step S2, a first load acquisition step S3, a first temperature change acquisition step S4, and a first deflection amount acquisition step S5. The program editing method also includes a first period detection step (period detection step) S6, a first accumulation period detection step S7, and a program editing step S8. The execution order of the mist amount acquisition step S1 to the first accumulation period detection step S7 may be changed as appropriate. However, the first period detection step S6 is executed after the mist amount acquisition step S1. The first accumulation period detection step S7 is executed after the first accumulation amount acquisition step S2.

[0118] In the mist amount acquisition step S1, the mist amount acquisition unit 92 acquires the mist amount MA1 based on the detection signal of the first mist sensor 84 A. The mist amount acquisition unit 92 acquires the mist amount MA1 for the operating period PEA based on the pre-edit program 72A.

[0119] In the first accumulation amount acquisition step S2, the mist amount acquisition unit 92 acquires the accumulation amount MA2 based on the detection signal of the second mist sensor 84B. The mist amount acquisition unit 92 acquires the accumulation amount MA2 for the period from time t1 to time t3 when the mist collector 34 is controlled based on the pre-edit program 72A.

[0120] In the first load acquisition step S3, the load acquisition unit 98 acquires at least one load (first load LO1) of the multiple motors MO. As described above, the load is, for example, the amount of power consumption of the motor MO.

[0121] In the first temperature change acquisition step S4, the temperature acquisition unit 100 acquires the amount of temperature change in the processing area 48 (first amount of temperature change dT1) based on the detection signal of the temperature sensor 86.

[0122] In the first shake amount acquisition step S5, the shake amount acquisition unit 102 acquires the shake amount of the main shaft 18 (first shake amount RA1) based on the detection signal of the shake amount sensor 88.

[0123] In the first period detection step S6, the period detection unit 94 detects the first period PE1 based on the mist amount MA1 acquired in the mist amount acquisition step S1.

[0124] In the first retention period detecting step S7, the period detecting unit 94 detects the second period PE21 based on the retention amount MA2 acquired in the first retention amount acquiring step S2.

[0125] In the program editing step S8, the program editing unit 96 automatically edits the pre-edit program 72A based on the first period PE1. The program editing unit 96 edits the pre-edit program 72A so that the mist collector 34 does not operate when the mist amount MA1 is less than the first threshold TH1. In this way, the program editing unit 96 creates the post-edit program 72B.

[0126] 8 further includes a second retention amount acquisition step S9, a second load acquisition step S10, a second temperature change acquisition step S11, a second swing amount acquisition step S12, and a second retention period detection step S13. The program editing method also includes a determination step S14 and a restoration step S15.

[0127] In the second accumulation amount acquisition step S9, the mist amount acquisition unit 92 acquires the accumulation amount MA2 based on the detection signal of the second mist sensor 84B. The mist amount acquisition unit 92 acquires the accumulation amount MA2 for the period from time t1 to time t3 when the mist collector 34 is controlled based on the edited program 72B.

[0128] In the second load acquisition step S10, the load acquisition unit 98 acquires the load (second load LO2) of at least one of the plurality of motors MO.

[0129] In the second temperature change acquisition step S11, the temperature acquisition unit 100 acquires the amount of temperature change in the processing area 48 (second amount of temperature change dT2) based on the detection signal of the temperature sensor 86.

[0130] In the second shake amount acquisition step S12, the shake amount acquisition unit 102 acquires the shake amount of the main shaft 18 (second shake amount RA2) based on the detection signal of the shake amount sensor 88.

[0131] In the second retention period detecting step S13, the period detecting unit 94 detects a second period PE22 based on the retention amount MA2 acquired in the second retention amount acquiring step S9.

[0132] FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating the determination step S14.

[0133] In determination step S14, determination unit 104 determines whether a predetermined condition is met. Determination step S14 includes load determination step S141, temperature change determination step S142, swing amount determination step S143, and residence period determination step S144. Load determination step S141, temperature change determination step S142, swing amount determination step S143, and residence period determination step S144 are performed in no particular order.

[0134] In a load determination step S141, the determination unit 104 determines whether the second load LO2 is greater than the first load LO1.

[0135] In the temperature change determination step S142, the determination unit 104 determines whether the second temperature change amount dT2 is greater than the first temperature change amount dT1.

[0136] In the shake amount determination step S143, the determination unit 104 determines whether the second shake amount RA2 is greater than the first shake amount RA1.

[0137] In the stay period determination step S144, the determination section 104 determines whether the second period PE22 based on the post-edit program 72B is longer than the second period PE21 based on the pre-edit program 72A.

[0138] If the determination results are all NO in the load determination step S141, the temperature change determination step S142, the swing amount determination step S143, and the retention period determination step S144, the determination unit 104 determines that the predetermined condition is not met (S14: NO). In this case, the program editing device 90 ends the program editing method.

[0139] If the determination result is YES in at least one of the load determination step S141, the temperature change determination step S142, the swing amount determination step S143, and the retention period determination step S144, the determination unit 104 determines that the predetermined condition is met (S14 in FIG. 8: YES). In this case, the program editing unit 96 starts the restoration step S15 after the determination step S14.

[0140] In the restoration step S15, the program editing section 96 restores the post-edit program 72B to the pre-edit program 72A. When the restoration step S15 ends, the program editing device 90 ends the program editing method.

[0141] According to this embodiment, the program editing unit 96 edits the pre-edit program 72A so as to reduce the power consumption of the mist collector 34. This results in the post-edit program 72B. By using the post-edit program 72B, the control device 14 can reduce the power consumption of the mist collector 34.

[0142] However, even if post-edit program 72B is used, there may be cases where it is not possible to suppress the power consumption of machine tool 10 as a whole. Therefore, in this embodiment, when any of the above-mentioned conditions 2-1 to 2-4 is met, program editing unit 96 reverts post-edit program 72B to pre-edit program 72A. This makes it possible to suppress the power consumption of machine tool 10 as a whole.

[0143] [Variations] Modifications of the above embodiment are described below. However, descriptions that overlap with the above embodiment will be omitted as appropriate. Elements already described in the above embodiment will be assigned the same reference numerals as in the above embodiment unless otherwise specified.

[0144] (Variation 1) FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram of a machine tool 10 (10A) according to the first modification.

[0145] The machine tool 10A further includes a sub-controller 78.

[0146] The sub-controller 78 is a computer separate from the controller 14. The sub-controller 78 includes, for example, a processor and a memory. The sub-controller 78 may include an integrated circuit, a discrete device, or the like.

[0147] When the control device 14 stops, the sub-control device 78 controls the mist collector 34 in place of the collector control unit 76. Therefore, even if the control device 14 stops, the mist collector 34 is controlled by the sub-control device 78 in the same manner as in the embodiment.

[0148] For example, if the main power supply of the control device 14 is turned off before the collector control unit 76 stops the mist collector 34, the sub-control device 78 can stop the mist collector 34 instead of the control device 14.

[0149] It is preferable that the sub-controller 78 and the controller 14 communicate with each other as needed to share data necessary for controlling the mist collector 34. For example, the sub-controller 78 shares information about the progress of processing with the controller 14. This allows the sub-controller 78 to smoothly take over the control that was being performed by the collector control unit 76. According to this modification, even after the controller 14 has stopped, the sub-controller 78 can continue to control the mist collector 34.

[0150] (Variation 2) FIG. 11 is a block diagram of the control device 14 (14B) according to the second modification.

[0151] The control device 14B further includes a standby power supply unit 68.

[0152] The standby power supply unit 68 is a power supply separate from the main power supply of the control device 14B. The standby power supply unit 68 includes, for example, a battery. The standby power supply unit 68 is built into the control device 14B. However, the standby power supply unit 68 may also be provided in the machine tool 10 as an external power supply for the control device 14B. The main power supply of the control device 14B is not shown in the drawing.

[0153] If the main power supply of the control device 14B is turned off while the mist collector 34 is in operation, the backup power supply unit 68 supplies power to each unit of the control device 14B. This allows the collector control unit 76 to continue controlling the mist collector 34 even after the main power supply is turned off.

[0154] For example, the main power supply of the control device 14B may be turned off before the collector control unit 76 stops the mist collector 34. In such a case, by supplying power from the backup power supply unit 68, the collector control unit 76 can automatically stop the mist collector 34 even after the main power supply of the control device 14B has been turned off. This prevents the mist collector 34 from wasting power.

[0155] (Variation 3) FIG. 12 is a block diagram of the control device 14 (14C) according to the third modification.

[0156] The control device 14C further includes an alarm output unit 80.

[0157] Alarm output unit 80 outputs an alarm when an abnormality occurs in machine tool 10. For example, machine tool 10 is appropriately equipped with sensors (not shown) for detecting failures in each component, such as spindle 18, spindle head 20, table drive unit 28, etc. Alarm output unit 80 determines whether a failure has occurred in machine tool 10 based on the signals output by the sensors. When a failure is detected in each component of machine tool 10, alarm output unit 80 notifies the operator that a failure has occurred, for example via display unit 60.

[0158] If the alarm output unit 80 outputs an alarm before machining starts, the machining control unit 74 will not start machining until the cause of the alarm is resolved. Also, if the alarm output unit 80 outputs an alarm after machining starts, the machining control unit 74 will suspend machining based on the machining program 72 until the cause of the alarm is resolved.

[0159] Furthermore, when the alarm output unit 80 outputs an alarm, the collector control unit 76 prohibits the operation of the mist collector 34 until the cause of the alarm is resolved, regardless of the content of the machining program 72. If the mist collector 34 is in operation when the alarm is output, the collector control unit 76 stops the mist collector 34, regardless of the content of the machining program 72.

[0160] According to this modification, when an abnormality occurs in the machine tool 10, the mist collector 34 is prevented from operating.

[0161] (Variation 4) FIG. 13 is a block diagram of a program editing device 90 (90D) according to the fourth modification.

[0162] The program editing device 90D further includes a communication control unit .

[0163] When the program editing unit 96 edits the pre-edit program 72A, the communication control unit 106 communicates with another machine tool (10) and transmits the edited content made by the program editing unit 96 to the other machine tool.

[0164] For example, the memory unit 64 of each of a plurality of machine tools 10 stores a pre-edit program 72A. At least one of the plurality of machine tools 10 is equipped with a program editing device 90D. The pre-edit program 72A is edited in the machine tool 10 equipped with the program editing device 90D. In such a case, the communication control unit 106 transmits the edited program 72B to another machine tool 10. Note that there may be a plurality of machine tools 10 that can receive the post-edit program 72B. In such a case, it is preferable that the communication control unit 106 transmits the post-edit program 72B to all machine tools 10 that can receive the post-edit program 72B.

[0165] According to this modification, edited program 72B can be used not only by machine tool 10 equipped with program editing device 90D, but also by machine tools (10) other than machine tool 10. In other words, it is possible to reduce the power consumption of machine tools (10) other than machine tool 10 equipped with program editing device 90D.

[0166] (Variation 5) FIG. 14 is a flowchart illustrating a program editing method according to the fifth modification.

[0167] The determining step S14 in Fig. 14 includes at least a staying period determining step S144. The program editing method in Fig. 14 further includes a program re-editing step S16. The program re-editing step S16 is started after the restoring step S15.

[0168] In the program re-editing step S16, the program editing unit 96 edits the pre-edit program 72A so that the mist collector 34 does not operate in the first period PE1.

[0169] However, the program editing unit 96 edits the pre-edit program 72A so that the mist collector 34 operates in the second period PE22. If there is an overlapping period between the first period PE1 and the second period PE22, the program editing unit 96 edits the pre-edit program 72A so that the mist collector 34 operates in the overlapping period.

[0170] The program editing unit 96 edits the pre-edit program 72A, for example, as will be described below with reference to FIGS.

[0171] Fig. 15 is a third graph illustrating the time transition of the accumulation amount MA2. Fig. 16 is a fourth graph illustrating the time transition of the accumulation amount MA2. The format of each of the graphs in Fig. 15 and Fig. 16 is based on the format of the graph in Fig. 6.

[0172] Figure 15 illustrates the transition of the retention amount MA2 when the pre-edit program 72A is used. Although some parts of the retention amount MA2 in Figure 15 are omitted, it does not exceed the second threshold value TH2 during the period from the start of machining (origin) to time t3. In contrast, Figure 16 illustrates the transition of the retention amount MA2 when the post-edit program 72B is used. The post-edit program 72B in Figure 16 is obtained by editing the pre-edit program 72A in Figure 15 by the program editing unit 96.

[0173] The accumulation amount MA2 in Fig. 16 reaches the second threshold value TH2 at time tc between time t1 and time ta. Moreover, the accumulation amount MA2 in Fig. 16 becomes less than the second threshold value TH2 at time td after time ta. In this case, the second period PE22 in Fig. 16 is the period from time tc to time td.

[0174] In the above case, the determination unit 104 determines that the length of the second period PE22 is longer than the length (zero) of the second period PE21. Furthermore, the program editing unit 96 edits the machining program 72 so that the mist collector 34 operates not only during the operation period PEB but also during the period from time tc to time ta.

[0175] In this case, the machining program 72 for operating the mist collector 34 over the period from time tc to time t3 is obtained. The period from time tc to time t3 is shorter than the operation period PEA. Therefore, when the machining program 72 obtained in the program re-editing step S16 is used, the power consumption of the mist collector 34 can be reduced more than when the pre-edit program 72A is used. Moreover, the accumulation amount MA2 can be prevented from exceeding the second threshold value TH2.

[0176] As described above, according to this modification, the machining program 72 can be obtained that can not only reduce the power consumption of the mist collector 34 but also prevent the accumulation amount MA2 from exceeding the second threshold value TH2.

[0177] In the program re-editing step S16, the program editing unit 96 may set the time to start the mist collector 34 to a time a predetermined time before the time tc. This reduces the risk that the accumulation amount MA2 will reach the second threshold value TH2. In this case, the predetermined time is determined within the time difference between the time t1 and the time tc, for example.

[0178] Also, some steps included in determination step S14 have been omitted from the flowchart in Fig. 14. Specifically, load determination step S141 to swing amount determination step S143 have been omitted from the flowchart in Fig. 14. However, the program editing method of this modified example may include at least one of load determination step S141 to swing amount determination step S143. In this case, the program editing method of this modified example also includes first load acquisition step S3 to first swing amount acquisition step S5 and second load acquisition step S10 to second swing amount acquisition step S12 as appropriate. However, even if the determination result of at least one of load determination step S141 to swing amount determination step S143 is YES, retention period determination step S144 is performed.

[0179] (Combination of multiple modifications) The above-described multiple modifications may be combined as appropriate within a range that does not contradict each other.

[0180] [Modified embodiment] The present invention is not limited to the above disclosure, and various configurations can be adopted without departing from the gist of the present invention.

[0181] For example, according to the embodiment, the first mist sensor 84A is provided in the duct 58, but is not limited thereto. The first mist sensor 84A may be provided in the mist intake port of the mist collector 34 (the connection between the mist collector 34 and the duct 58).

[0182] Furthermore, for example, the first mist sensor 84A may be provided in the processing area 48. In that case, the first mist sensor 84A may also serve as the second mist sensor 84B.

[0183] Also, for example, at least a portion of the drive device 82 may be included in the control device 14 .

[0184] Further, for example, the start command included in the machining program 72 may be a command to start the mist collector 34 when the machining progress has reached a predetermined stage. The stop command included in the machining program 72 may be a command to stop the mist collector 34 when the machining progress has reached a predetermined stage. Stop It may also be an instruction to

[0185] Furthermore, for example, the load obtaining unit 98 may calculate the amount of power consumption of at least one of the multiple motors MO. In this case, at least one of the multiple encoders EN may input a detection signal not only to the driving device 82 but also to the control device 14.

[0186] According to the embodiment, the period detection unit 94 acquires the operating state of the mist collector 34 from the collector control unit 76 to detect the first period PE1. However, the period detection unit 94 may detect the operation period PEA in advance based on the machining program 72. In this case, the period detection unit 94 may further detect the first period PE1 using the detected operation period PEA.

[0187] Furthermore, for example, the period during which the mist collector 34 collects mist after the end of machining (time t2 to time t3 in FIG. 4) may be excluded from the detectable range of the first period PE1. For example, the period detection unit 94 does not need to detect the first period PE12 illustrated in FIG. 4. This ensures that the mist collector 34 operates reliably during the period from time t2 to time t3. As a result, it is possible to more reliably prevent insufficient collection of mist after the end of machining. For the same reason, the program editing unit 96 may exclude from editing the period during which the mist collector 34 collects mist after the end of machining, regardless of the detection result of the period detection unit 94.

[0188] According to the embodiment, the determination unit 104 compares the maximum value of the first load LO1 with the maximum value of the second load LO2 to determine whether the above condition 2-1 is met. However, the method of determining whether the above condition 2-1 is met is not limited to comparing the maximum value of the first load LO1 with the maximum value of the second load LO2. For example, the determination unit 104 may compare the average value of the first load LO1 with the average value of the second load LO2 to determine whether the above condition 2-1 is met. The average value of the load of the motor MO is the average power consumption of the motor MO.

[0189] According to this embodiment, the determination unit 104 compares the maximum value of the first shake amount RA1 with the maximum value of the second shake amount RA2 to determine whether the above condition 2-3 is met. However, the method of determining whether the above condition 2-3 is met is not limited to comparing the maximum value of the first shake amount RA1 with the maximum value of the second shake amount RA2. For example, the determination unit 104 may compare the average value of the first shake amount RA1 with the average value of the second shake amount RA2 to determine whether the above condition 2-3 is met.

[0190] At least one of the motors MO may be provided with a torque sensor. The torque sensor outputs a detection signal corresponding to the output torque of the corresponding motor MO. The load acquisition unit 98 may acquire the output torque of the motor MO as the load of the motor MO. In this case, the torque sensor functions as a load sensor.

[0191] At least one of the motors MO may be provided with a current sensor. The current sensor outputs a detection signal corresponding to the drive current of the corresponding motor MO. The load acquisition unit 98 may acquire the drive current of the motor MO as the load of the motor MO. In this case, the current sensor functions as a load sensor.

[0192] At least one of the load acquisition unit 98, the temperature acquisition unit 100, and the deflection amount acquisition unit 102 may be omitted from the program editing device 90. In that case, the determination unit 104 determines whether or not a predetermined condition is met using at least one of the load (power consumption) of the motor MO, the temperature in the machining area 48, and the deflection amount of the spindle 18.

[0193] The determination unit 104 may be omitted from the program editing device 90. In that case, not only the determination unit 104 but also all of the load acquisition unit 98, the temperature acquisition unit 100, and the swing amount acquisition unit 102 may be omitted from the program editing device 90.

[0194] The coolant discharge method is not limited to the embodiment. For example, the coolant may be discharged using a center-through method. In this case, the coolant supplier 32 supplies the coolant to the spindle 18. The coolant may also flow along the inner wall of the cover 30 (machining area 48).

[0195] Furthermore, for example, the processing machine 12 may further include a recovery member (not shown) for recovering coolant that falls below the table 26. The recovery member is, for example, an oil pan provided on the base 24. A portion of the coolant supplied to the processing area 48 does not become mist and falls below the table 26. According to this modification, the coolant that falls below the table 26 can be recovered. The recovered coolant may be returned to the coolant tank 50. This allows the coolant supplier 32 to reuse the recovered coolant. Here, it is preferable to provide a filtration device (filter) between the recovery member and the coolant tank 50. This allows clean coolant to be returned to the coolant tank 50.

[0196] According to an embodiment, each of the multiple motors MO is a rotary motor, but is not limited to this. At least one motor MO may be a direct-acting motor (linear motor). For example, at least one of the column motor 25, the X-axis motor 47X, and the Y-axis motor 47Y may be a linear motor. If the column motor 25 is a linear motor, the encoder 27 is a linear encoder. If the X-axis motor 47X is a linear motor, the encoder 29X is a linear encoder. If the Y-axis motor 47Y is a linear motor, the encoder 29Y is a linear encoder.

[0197] The communication control unit 106 may transmit the post-edited program 72B to at least one of the plurality of machine tools 10 that can receive the post-edited program 72B. In other words, the communication control unit 106 does not need to transmit the post-edited program 72B to all of the plurality of machine tools 10 that can receive the post-edited program 72B.

[0198] The communication control unit 106 may be provided in an electronic device separate from the program editing device 90D. The separate electronic device is, for example, a communication control device that can be externally attached to the program editing device 90D. When externally attached to the program editing device 90D, the communication control device provides the program editing device 90 with the functions of the communication control unit 106.

[0199] The program editing unit 96 according to the fifth modification may edit the edited program 72B based on the second period PE22. In this case, the program editing unit 96 edits the edited program 72B so that the mist collector 34 operates in the second period PE22. In this case, the restoration step S15 is omitted.

[0200] [Inventions that can be understood based on the disclosure] The inventions that can be grasped based on the above disclosure are described below.

[0201] <First invention> The first invention is a program editing device (90) that edits a processing program (72) for controlling the operation of a mist collector of a machine tool (10) that includes a processing machine (12) that processes a workpiece and a mist collector (34) that collects mist present in the processing area (48) of the processing machine, the program editing device comprising: a mist amount acquisition unit (92) that acquires the amount of mist (MA1) collected by the mist collector based on the detection signal of a first mist sensor (84A); a period detection unit (94) that detects a first period (PE1) during which the mist collector is operating when the amount of mist is less than a first threshold value (TH1); and a program editing unit (96) that automatically edits the processing program so that the mist collector does not operate during the first period.

[0202] This makes it possible to reduce the power consumption of a machine tool equipped with a processing machine and a mist collector.

[0203] In the above program editing device, the mist amount acquisition unit may acquire the mist amount based on a detection signal of the first mist sensor disposed in the duct (58).

[0204] In the above program editing device, the machining program includes content for the machine tool to perform a predetermined machining operation, and the machine tool performs the predetermined machining operation based on the machining program. The device further includes a judgment unit (104) that judges whether a predetermined condition is met in the predetermined machining operation that is performed after the program editing unit has edited the machining program. If the predetermined condition is met in the predetermined machining operation that is performed after the program editing unit has edited the machining program, the program editing unit may return the machining program to the state it was in before it was edited.

[0205] In the above-mentioned program editing device, the machine tool is equipped with a plurality of motors (MO) for machining, and is equipped with a load acquisition unit (98) that acquires the load of at least one of the predetermined motors based on the detection signal of a load sensor (EN), and if the load in the specified machining performed after the program editing unit edits the machining program is greater than the load in the specified machining performed before the program editing unit edits the machining program, the judgment unit may judge that the specified condition is met.

[0206] The above-mentioned program editing device may include a temperature acquisition unit (100) that acquires the temperature in the processing area based on a detection signal from a temperature sensor (86), and the judgment unit may judge that the specified condition is met if the amount of change in temperature during the specified processing performed after the program editing unit edits the processing program is greater than the amount of change in temperature during the specified processing performed before the program editing unit edits the processing program.

[0207] The above program editing device may include a runout amount acquisition unit (102) that acquires the runout amount of the spindle (18) of the processing machine based on a detection signal of a runout amount detection sensor (88), and the determination unit may determine that the specified condition is met when the runout amount in the specified processing performed after the program editing unit edits the processing program is greater than the runout amount in the specified processing performed before the program editing unit edits the processing program.

[0208] In the above-mentioned program editing device, the mist amount acquisition unit further acquires the amount of mist accumulating in the processing area (MA2) based on the detection signal of a second mist sensor (84B), the period detection unit further detects a second period (PE2) in which the amount of accumulating is greater than a second threshold (TH2), and if the second period in the specified processing performed after the program editing unit edited the processing program is longer than the second period in the specified processing performed before the program editing unit edited the processing program, the judgment unit may judge that the specified condition is met.

[0209] In the above-mentioned program editing device, the mist amount acquisition unit further acquires the amount of mist accumulating in the processing area (MA2) based on the detection signal of a second mist sensor (84B), and the period detection unit further detects a second period (PE2) in which the amount of accumulating is greater than a second threshold value (TH2), and if the second period in the specified processing performed after the program editing unit edited the processing program is longer than the second period in the specified processing performed before the program editing unit edited the processing program, the program editing unit may edit the processing program based on the second period.

[0210] In the above program editing device, the mist amount acquisition unit may acquire the accumulation amount based on a detection signal of the second mist sensor disposed within the processing area.

[0211] The above program editing device may further include a communication control unit (106) that, when the machining program is edited by the program editing unit, transmits the edited machining program to another machine tool.

[0212] <Second Invention> A second invention is a machine tool (10) comprising the above-mentioned program editing device, the processing machine, and the mist collector, and further comprising a control device (14) that controls the processing machine and the mist collector based on the processing program.

[0213] This makes it possible to reduce the power consumption of the machine tool.

[0214] In the above machine tool, the program editing device may be provided in the control device.

[0215] The above machine tool may further include a sub-controller (78) that controls the mist collector in place of the control device when the control device stops, thereby automatically controlling the mist collector even when the control device stops.

[0216] <Third invention> The third invention is a program editing method for editing a machining program (72) for controlling the operation of a mist collector of a machine tool (10) equipped with a processing machine (12) for processing a workpiece and a mist collector (34) for collecting mist present in the processing area (48) of the processing machine, the program editing method including a mist amount acquisition step (S1) for acquiring the amount of mist (MA1) collected by the mist collector based on the detection signal of a first mist sensor (84A), a first period detection step (S6) for detecting a first period (PE1) during which the mist collector is operating when the mist amount is less than a first threshold value (TH1), and a program editing step (S8) in which a computer automatically edits the machining program so that the mist collector does not operate during the first period.

[0217] This makes it possible to reduce the power consumption of a machine tool equipped with a processing machine and a mist collector. [Explanation of symbols]

[0218] 10, 10A…Machine tool 12…Processing machine 14, 14B, 14C...Control device 18...Main shaft 34...Mist collector 48...Processing area 72... Machining program 78... Sub-control device 84A...First mist sensor 84B...Second mist sensor 86...Temperature sensor 88...Deflection amount sensor 90, 90D...Program editing device 92...Mist amount acquisition unit 94...Period detection section 96...Program editing section 98...Load acquisition section 100...Temperature acquisition section 102: shake amount acquisition unit 104: determination unit 106...Communication control unit EN...Encoder (load sensor) MA1: mist volume MA2: retention volume MO...Motor PE1...1st period PE2: Second period TH1: First threshold TH2: Second threshold

Claims

1. A program editing device for editing a machining program for controlling operation of a mist collector of a machine tool including a processing machine that processes a workpiece and a mist collector that collects mist present in a processing area of ​​the processing machine, a mist amount acquiring unit that acquires the amount of mist collected by the mist collector based on a detection signal of a first mist sensor; a period detection unit that detects a first period during which the mist collector is operating in a state in which the amount of mist is less than a first threshold; a program editing unit that automatically edits the machining program so that the mist collector does not operate during the first period; A program editing device comprising:

2. 2. A program editing device according to claim 1, A program editing device, wherein the mist amount acquisition unit acquires the mist amount based on a detection signal of the first mist sensor arranged in a duct.

3. 3. A program editing device according to claim 1, the machining program includes content for the machine tool to perform predetermined machining, and the machine tool performs the predetermined machining based on the machining program, a determination unit that determines whether a predetermined condition is satisfied in the predetermined machining that is performed after the program editing unit edits the machining program, A program editing device in which, if the specified condition is met in the specified processing performed after the program editing unit edits the processing program, the program editing unit returns the processing program to a state before it was edited.

4. 4. A program editing device according to claim 3, the machine tool includes a plurality of motors for performing machining; a load acquisition unit that acquires a predetermined load of at least one of the motors based on a detection signal from a load sensor; A program editing device in which, when the load in the specified machining performed after the program editing unit edits the machining program is greater than the load in the specified machining performed before the program editing unit edits the machining program, the judgment unit judges that the specified condition is met.

5. 4. A program editing device according to claim 3, a temperature acquisition unit that acquires the temperature in the processing area based on a detection signal from a temperature sensor; A program editing device in which, if the amount of change in temperature during the specified processing performed after the program editing unit edits the processing program is greater than the amount of change in temperature during the specified processing performed before the program editing unit edits the processing program, the judgment unit judges that the specified condition is met.

6. 4. A program editing device according to claim 3, a runout amount acquisition unit that acquires the runout amount of the spindle of the processing machine based on a detection signal from a runout amount detection sensor; A program editing device in which, if the amount of runout in the specified processing performed after the program editing unit edits the processing program is greater than the amount of runout in the specified processing performed before the program editing unit edits the processing program, the judgment unit judges that the specified condition is met.

7. 4. A program editing device according to claim 3, The mist amount acquisition unit further acquires the amount of mist remaining in the processing area based on the detection signal of the second mist sensor, the period detection unit further detects a second period in which the retention amount is equal to or greater than a second threshold; A program editing device, wherein the judgment unit judges that the specified condition is met when the second period of the specified processing performed after the program editing unit edits the processing program is longer than the second period of the specified processing performed before the program editing unit edits the processing program.

8. 4. A program editing device according to claim 3, The mist amount acquisition unit further acquires the amount of mist remaining in the processing area based on the detection signal of the second mist sensor, the period detection unit further detects a second period in which the retention amount is equal to or greater than a second threshold; a program editing device in which, when the second period in the specified machining performed after the program editing unit edits the machining program is longer than the second period in the specified machining performed before the program editing unit edits the machining program, the program editing unit edits the machining program so that the mist collector operates during the second period.

9. 8. A program editing device according to claim 7, The mist amount acquisition unit acquires the accumulation amount based on a detection signal of the second mist sensor arranged within the processing area.

10. 3. A program editing device according to claim 1, The program editing device further includes a communication control unit that, when the machining program is edited by the program editing unit, transmits the edited machining program to another machine tool.

11. A program editing system comprising: the program editing device according to claim 1 or 2; the processing machine; and the mist collector; The machine tool further includes a control device that controls the processing machine and the mist collector based on the processing program.

12. 12. The machine tool according to claim 11, The program editing device is provided in the control device.

13. 12. The machine tool according to claim 11, The machine tool further includes a sub-controller that controls the mist collector in place of the control device when the control device stops.

14. A program editing method for editing a machining program for controlling operation of a mist collector of a machine tool including a processing machine that processes a workpiece and a mist collector that collects mist present in a processing area of ​​the processing machine, the method comprising: a mist amount acquiring step of acquiring the amount of mist collected by the mist collector based on a detection signal of a first mist sensor; a first period detection step of detecting a first period during which the mist collector is operating in a state in which the amount of mist is less than a first threshold value; a program editing step in which a computer automatically edits the machining program so that the mist collector does not operate during the first period; A program editing method including:

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