Processing management system, processing management program, and processing management method

The machining management system addresses the challenge of unified information management across multiple processing devices by tracking tool lifespan and utilization rates, ensuring timely tool replacement and preventing defects.

JP7840080B1Active Publication Date: 2026-04-03OGISO MANUFACTURING CO LTD
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Patent Information

Authority / Receiving Office
JP · JP
Patent Type
Patents
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2025-02-05
Publication Date
2026-04-03

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing systems fail to provide unified management of information across multiple processing devices, leading to inefficiencies and potential production of defective products due to overlooked tool lifespan.

Method used

A machining management system that includes a database, a setting unit, and an update unit to manage machining processes across multiple machining devices, tracking tool lifespan and utilization rates, and providing notifications for tool replacement.

Benefits of technology

Ensures accurate management of tool usage across multiple machines, preventing defective products by ensuring tools are replaced at the right time, thereby improving production efficiency and quality.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

The objective is to provide a novel technology that enables proper management of information related to parts production using multiple processing devices. [Solution] A machining management system for managing machining in multiple machining devices, comprising a database, a setting unit, and an update unit, wherein the database stores the element lifespan of machining device elements, the setting unit receives the specification of a machining process template for executing machining processes in the machining device, and the update unit receives a signal indicating the completion of machining in the machining device and updates the utilization rate of the machining device elements according to the machining process template executed in the machining device and the element lifespan of the machining device elements attached to the machining device.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a processing management system, a processing management program, and a processing management method.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, industrial parts have been produced by automatically processing materials using processing devices such as machining centers. In the production of such industrial parts, it is preferable to manage information regarding the produced industrial parts in data, and an example of such a technique is proposed in, for example, Patent Document 1.

[0003] Patent Document 1 discloses a tool movement list device for the movement of tools between machining centers in a system including a number of machining centers each of which can hold a number of tools simultaneously.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] In Patent Document 1, although it is possible to manage information on tools installed in each machining center from each of a plurality of machining centers (processing devices), it is not possible to perform unified management of information according to the processing operations executed in the plurality of processing devices.

[0006] In view of the above circumstances, an object to be solved by the present invention is to provide a novel technique capable of appropriately managing information related to part production using a plurality of processing devices.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0007] To solve the above problems, the present invention provides a machining management system for managing machining in a plurality of machining devices, wherein the machining management system comprises a database, a setting unit, and an update unit, the database storing the element lifespan of machining device elements, the setting unit receiving the specification of a machining process template for executing machining processes in the machining devices, and the update unit receiving a signal indicating the completion of machining in the machining device and updating the utilization rate of the machining device elements according to the machining process template executed in the machining device and the element lifespan of the machining device elements attached to the machining device.

[0008] Furthermore, in order to solve the above problems, the present invention provides a processing management program for managing processing in a plurality of processing devices, wherein the processing management program uses a computer as a database, a setting unit, and an update unit, the database stores the element lifespan of processing device elements, the setting unit receives the specification of a processing template for executing processing in the processing device, and the update unit receives a signal indicating the completion of processing in the processing device and updates the utilization rate of the processing device elements according to the processing template executed in the processing device and the element lifespan of the processing device elements attached to the processing device.

[0009] Furthermore, in order to solve the above problems, the present invention provides a machining management method for managing machining in a plurality of machining devices, wherein a computer performs the following processes: storing the element lifespan of the machining device elements; receiving the specification of a machining process template for executing machining in the machining device; and receiving a signal indicating the completion of machining in the machining device and updating the utilization rate of the machining device elements according to the machining process template executed in the machining device and the element lifespan of the machining device elements attached to the machining device.

[0010] In a processing device, various processing operations are performed depending on the time and circumstances. This configuration allows for appropriate management of the utilization rate of processing device elements according to the processing template executed in the device.

[0011] In a more preferred embodiment, the processing management system further comprises a display processing unit, the processing equipment elements are used across the plurality of processing equipment, and the display processing unit displays the usage rate for each of the processing equipment elements.

[0012] This configuration allows for the sharing of usage status of processing equipment elements used across different systems.

[0013] In a more preferred form, the database further stores element life reduction values ​​for each processing template, and the update unit updates the utilization rate based on the element life reduction values ​​of the processing templates executed in each processing device and the element life of the processing device elements attached to each processing device.

[0014] This configuration ensures reliable management of tool usage, even when the same tools are used in multiple processing machines. This prevents the production of defective products due to overlooking tool lifespan.

[0015] In a more preferred form, the database stores an installation element master indicating the processing equipment elements of the processing equipment, and an element list master indicating the processing equipment elements used in the processing of the processing template, and the setting unit receives a specification of the processing equipment and the processing template to be performed, and receives a specification of the processing equipment elements to be used in the processing based on the processing equipment elements of the specified processing equipment and the processing equipment elements associated with the specified processing template.

[0016] To accurately determine the utilization rate of processing equipment elements, it is necessary to set accurate information. With this configuration, it is possible to register all processing equipment elements used in the processing performed by a processing machine in a single entry, making it easy to set accurate information.

[0017] In a more preferred form, the processing management system further comprises a display processing unit, the database storing an installation element master indicating the processing equipment elements of the processing device and an element list master indicating the processing equipment elements used in the processing of the processing template, the setting unit receiving the designation of the processing device and the processing template to perform processing, and receiving the designation of the processing equipment elements associated with the processing template as temporary processing equipment elements, and the display processing unit highlighting and displaying the temporary processing equipment elements that are different from the processing equipment elements of the designated processing device, based on the installation element master.

[0018] This configuration highlights incorrectly configured processing equipment elements, allowing for accurate information to be set and enabling precise tracking of processing equipment element utilization.

[0019] In a more preferred form, the processing management system further comprises a notification unit, the setting unit receiving the designation of processing equipment elements to be used in the processing process, and the notification unit providing a notification based on the usage rate threshold and the usage rate of the designated processing equipment elements.

[0020] This configuration allows for advance notification if any processing equipment components are nearing the end of their lifespan, thereby preventing the production of defective products.

[0021] In a more preferred form, the processing management system further comprises an accessory equipment control unit, the database storing accessory equipment control information indicating the control time of the processing accessory equipment for each processing template, and the accessory equipment control unit controls the processing accessory equipment based on the specified processing template and the accessory equipment control information.

[0022] In a more preferred form, the setting unit sets, as the control time, the switching timing of the power supply of the attached processing equipment based on the cycle time of the processing template.

[0023] With such a configuration, the attached processing equipment can be controlled according to the processing template executed by the processing apparatus, and the processing can be performed efficiently.

[0024] In a more preferred form, the processing management system further includes a display processing unit, and the display processing unit displays a control time editing screen that can correct the switching timing of the power supply of the attached processing equipment for each processing template. The control time editing screen includes a table having an axis of switching timing from the start of processing and axes of one or more of the attached processing equipment.

[0025] With such a configuration, the user can visually and easily edit information for controlling the attached processing equipment.

Effect of the Invention

[0026] The present invention can provide a novel technology capable of appropriately managing information related to component production using a plurality of processing apparatuses.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0027] [Figure 1] It is a block diagram showing the system configuration of an embodiment. [Figure 2] It is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of the system of an embodiment. [Figure 3] It is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the system of an embodiment. [Figure 4] It is an example of an ER diagram of information stored in a database in the system of an embodiment. [Figure 5] It is an example of a display screen based on a tool pod master in the system of an embodiment. [Figure 6]This figure shows an example of a processing procedure in one embodiment of the system. [Figure 7] This figure shows an example of a management screen for processing templates in one embodiment of the system. [Figure 8] This figure shows an example of a control and management screen for processing auxiliary equipment in one embodiment of the system. [Figure 9] This figure shows an example of a screen for managing processing results in a system according to one embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0028] Further details will be provided below with reference to the attached drawings. The drawings show preferred embodiments. However, many different forms are possible and the embodiments are not limited to those described herein.

[0029] For example, in this embodiment, the configuration and operation of the processing management system will be described, but similar effects can be achieved by the method of execution, the device, the computer program, etc. Furthermore, the program may be stored on a recording medium or provided for download from an external server. Using this recording medium, for example, the program can be installed on a computer, thereby configuring a processing control device and a processing management system. Here, the recording medium on which the program is stored may be a non-transient recording medium such as a CD-ROM.

[0030] The present invention is a system for centrally managing information related to the processing of industrial parts to be processed, which is performed on multiple processing devices. In this invention, in view of the overall processing efficiency of the system, the processing device elements used for processing are installed across multiple processing devices. The utilization rate of the installed processing device elements is calculated and managed according to the processing performed on each processing device.

[0031] Here, "installed across multiple processing devices" means that one tool is used in common for processing in multiple processing devices. A processing device element is a piece of equipment installed in a processing device that processes industrial products. In this embodiment, a processing device element includes a tool and multiple parts that make up the tool (tool components), but may also include a tool pod, etc. The utilization rate of a processing device element is the utilization rate of the equipment that processes industrial products. In this embodiment, the utilization rate of a processing device element includes the utilization rate of tool components, but may also include the utilization rate of the tool and tool pod, etc. In the following, we will use the tool and tool components as the processing device element and the utilization rate of tool components as the utilization rate of a processing device element.

[0032] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the control of auxiliary equipment (hereinafter referred to as "processing auxiliary equipment") such as collecting dust and mist generated in the processing equipment and illuminating the inside of the processing equipment is managed.

[0033] <1. System Configuration> Figure 1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a system according to one embodiment. As shown in Figure 1, the processing management system 0 comprises a user terminal device 1, an information management device 2, and a processing device 3. The user terminal device 1 and the information management device 2 are configured to communicate via wired or wireless connections, and the information management device 2 and the processing device 3 are configured to communicate via wired connections. There are no restrictions on the type of wireless communication protocol used between the user terminal device 1 and the information management device 2, nor are there any restrictions on the type or size of the network. Furthermore, communication between the information management device 2 and the processing device 3 may be conducted wirelessly.

[0034] User terminal device 1 can be a personal computer, smartphone, tablet, wearable device, etc. Information management device 2 can be a general-purpose server computer, personal computer, etc. User terminal device 1 has an information management device utilization program for making requests to information management device 2 and receiving responses.

[0035] The processing device 3 can be a machining center, lathe, milling machine, etc. The processing device 3 also includes a processing unit 32 such as a table and spindle for processing materials, a communication unit 33 for communicating with the user terminal device 1, a collector unit 34 for collecting mist and dust generated during the production of industrial products, a lighting unit 35 that lights up lamps of corresponding colors when the processing device 3 starts and stops operating, and a lighting unit 36 ​​for illuminating the inside of the processing device 3.

[0036] <1.1. Hardware Configuration> Figure 2 is a block diagram of the hardware configuration in this system. As shown in Figure 2(a), the server 100 (information management device 2) comprises a processing unit 101, a storage unit 102, and a communication unit 103.

[0037] The processing unit 101 has a processor such as a CPU capable of executing instruction sets, and controls the entire operation of the information management device 2 by executing information management programs, the OS, and other applications. The memory unit 102 includes volatile memory such as RAM capable of storing instruction sets, and non-volatile recording media such as HDDs or SSDs capable of storing the OS and information management programs. The communication unit 103 has a communication interface device for connecting to a network, and performs communication control with the network NW to input and output information.

[0038] As shown in Figure 2(b), the terminal device 90 (user terminal device 1) has a processing unit 91, a storage unit 92, a communication unit 93, an input unit 94, and a display unit 95.

[0039] The processing unit 91 has a processor such as a CPU capable of executing instruction sets, and controls the entire operation process of the user terminal device 1 by executing the processing management program, OS, and other applications according to the present invention. The memory unit 92 includes volatile memory such as RAM capable of storing instruction sets, and non-volatile recording media such as HDDs or SSDs capable of storing the OS and processing management programs. The communication unit 93 has a communication interface device for connecting to the network and the processing device 3, and performs communication control with the information management device 2 and the processing device 3 to input and output information. The input unit 94 has an input device capable of input processing, such as a keyboard or a touch panel. The display unit 95 has a display device capable of display processing, such as a display.

[0040] As shown in Figure 2(c), the processing apparatus 3 comprises a processing unit 31 that controls the entire processing apparatus 3, a communication interface device for connecting to the user terminal device 1, a communication unit 33 that performs communication control with the user terminal device 1 and inputs and outputs information, and a storage unit 37 that stores a program for controlling the processing unit 32, collector unit 34, lighting unit 35, and illumination unit 36 ​​in response to signals from the user terminal device 1.

[0041] <1.2. Functional Configuration of User Terminal Device 1> Figure 3 is a functional block diagram of the processing management system 0. As shown in Figure 3, the user terminal device 1 includes a setting unit 11, a processing control unit 12, an accessory equipment control unit 13, an update unit 14, a notification unit 15, an integration unit 16, and a display processing unit 17. The information management device 2 includes a distribution unit 21, a data storage unit 22, and a database 23. This is an example where information processing by software (stored in storage unit 102 / storage unit 92) is concretely realized by hardware (processing units 101 / 91, etc.).

[0042] Furthermore, some or all of the functional components (parts) of the user terminal device 1 may be provided in the information management device 2, which is a server. For example, the information management device 2 may include a setting unit 11, a processing control unit 12, an accessory equipment control unit 13, an update unit 14, a notification unit 15, and an integration unit 16, and the user terminal device 1 may be a terminal device that mediates signals between the processing device 3 and the server. In this embodiment, the processing management system 0 is used by the distribution unit 21 distributing data stored in the database 23 of the information management device 2 to each user terminal device 1, but it may also be used by each user terminal device 1 storing data and exchanging data with each other. In addition, the information management device 2 receives data from the processing device 3 via the user terminal device 1, but it may also receive data directly from the processing device 3 without going through the user terminal device 1. Furthermore, the device may be composed of multiple computers that are capable of sending and receiving information via a network between the user terminal device 1 and the information management device 2, or via another network.

[0043] <1.3. Database 23> As shown in Figure 4, the database 23 stores machining control program information related to the machining process, tool information related to the tools, and equipment information related to the machining apparatus 3. The database 23 also stores work history information (not shown). The work history information is stored in the data storage unit 22 based on information received from the user terminal device 1.

[0044] <1.3.1. Machining Control Program Information> The machining control program information includes the machining target master, machining process template master, template candidate master, tool list master, and auxiliary equipment control master.

[0045] <1.3.1.1. Master of Processing Targets> The processing target master is master data related to the industrial parts to be processed. The processing target master includes a processing target ID that uniquely identifies the processing target, the industrial part name, and a process ID that uniquely identifies the processing step.

[0046] <1.3.1.2. Processing Template Master> The machining process template master is the master data for the machining process program executed for each machining device 3. The machining process template master includes a template ID to uniquely identify the machining process template, a template name, a process ID, an equipment ID to uniquely identify the machining device 3, and one or more template candidates.

[0047] <1.3.1.3. Template Candidate Master> The template candidate master is master data of candidate machining process templates that serve as candidates for machining process programs executed for each machining device 3. The template candidate master includes a template candidate ID to uniquely identify the machining process template candidate, a template ID, a template number, the template body which shows the content of the machining process template candidate, a cycle time which indicates the time from the start to the end of the machining process, and a tool life reduction value (multiple values ​​in the illustrated example) which is the amount of tool life (element life) consumed in one machining process. In this embodiment, the machining process template master and the template candidate master have a many-to-many relationship. That is, multiple template candidates are used in one machining process template, and one template candidate is used in multiple machining process templates.

[0048] <1.3.1.4. Tool List Master (Element List Master)> The tool list master is master data relating to the tools used in the machining process for each template candidate. The tool list master includes a tool list ID to uniquely identify the tool list, a template candidate ID, a pod ID to uniquely identify the tool mounting section of the machining device 3 (hereinafter referred to as the tool pod), a tool ID to uniquely identify the tool, and a tool life. In this embodiment, the template candidate master and the tool list master have a one-to-many relationship. That is, a tool list is set for one template candidate, with various tools and tool pods registered. In this embodiment, the life is the number of times used, but it may also be the cumulative usage time.

[0049] <1.3.1.5. Control Master for Ancillary Equipment> The accessory equipment control master is master data related to the control of processing accessory equipment. The accessory equipment control master contains an accessory equipment control ID to uniquely identify the program that controls the accessory equipment, a template candidate ID, and control information for each type of processing accessory equipment (POUT0 to POUT7 in the illustrated example). In this embodiment, the control information includes a combination of the power state (ON or OFF) of the processing accessory equipment and the timing (time) for switching the power state. In this embodiment, the template candidate master and the accessory equipment control master have a one-to-many relationship. That is, for one template candidate, an accessory equipment control master with various control information registered is set.

[0050] <1.3.2. Tool information> Tool information includes the tool component master and the tool master.

[0051] <1.3.2.1. Tool Component Master> The tool component master is master data relating to the tool components that make up a tool. The tool component master includes a tool component ID to uniquely identify the tool component, a tool ID, a life management flag, the usage rate of the tool component (= (number of uses / tool life) × 100%), a usage multiplier to adjust the number of times the tool component is used in a single machining process (e.g., 0.5x, 1x, 2x, etc.), a notification threshold for whether or not to send a notification set for the usage rate of each tool component, and a notification order. In this embodiment, the tool life of the tool is used as the tool life of the tool component, but the tool life of each tool component may also be used.

[0052] <1.3.2.2. Tool Master> The tool master is master data related to tools. The tool master includes the tool ID, tool name, and equipment ID, among other things. In this embodiment, the tool component master and the tool master have a many-to-one relationship. That is, multiple tool components are used for one tool. Also, the tool master and the tool list master have a one-to-many relationship. That is, various tool list masters are set using one tool master.

[0053] <1.3.3. Equipment information> Equipment information includes tool pod master and equipment master.

[0054] <1.3.3.1. Tool Pod Master (Installation Element Master)> The tool pod master is master data related to the tool pods of the machining equipment 3. The tool pod master includes the pod ID, equipment ID, set tool ID (which indicates the ID of the tool installed in the tool pod), and display number (tool pod number), etc.

[0055] Figure 5 shows an example of a screen displayed based on the tool pod master. In the example, the combination of tool pods and set tools associated with the equipment name "3MC" (equipment tool list) is displayed based on the tool pod master. When a tool is selected from the equipment tool list (indicated by a triangle mark in the leftmost column in the example), the names of the tool components that make up the selected tool and their usage rates are displayed based on the tool component master. In addition, a list of machining templates currently being executed for the selected tool is displayed based on the tool list master and template candidate master.

[0056] <1.3.3.2. Equipment Master> The equipment master is master data related to the processing device 3. The equipment master contains information such as the equipment ID, equipment name, equipment type, the number of the connected user terminal device 1, the processing status of the processing device 3, and the processing status of the auxiliary equipment. In this embodiment, the processing template master and the equipment master have a many-to-one relationship. In other words, various processing templates are used in one processing device 3.

[0057] <1.3.4. Work History Information> Work history information is information about the machining processes performed on multiple machining devices 3. The work history information includes a work ID to uniquely identify the machining process, the part number ID of the industrial part that was the target of the machining process, the template ID and equipment ID used for the machining process, and the date and time of the work.

[0058] <1.4. Settings Section 11> The setting unit 11 accepts the specification of various information for performing machining. The setting unit 11 accepts the specification of the object to be machined, the specification of the machining process to be performed on the object, and the specification of the machining apparatus 3 and machining template to perform the machining. Based on the auxiliary equipment control master, the setting unit 11 accepts the setting of auxiliary equipment control information related to the control of machining auxiliary equipment.

[0059] Furthermore, the setting unit 11 accepts notification settings for providing notifications regarding tool usage rates. The setting unit 11 accepts the setting of a life management flag (e.g., "0" or "1") as a notification setting for tool components whose lifespan is managed. The setting unit 11 also accepts the setting of a notification threshold (e.g., 90%) as a notification setting.

[0060] <1.5. Machining Control Unit 12> The machining control unit 12 controls the machining process of the machining apparatus 3. The machining control unit 12 controls the machining process of the machining apparatus 3 based on a specified machining process template.

[0061] <1.6. Accessory Equipment Control Unit 13> The accessory equipment control unit 13 controls the processing accessory equipment based on the accessory equipment control information registered by the user. The accessory equipment control unit 13 controls the processing accessory equipment based on the specified processing template and accessory equipment control information. In this embodiment, the accessory equipment control unit 13 includes a mist collector control unit 131, a dust collector control unit 132, and a lighting control unit 133. Details of these control units will be described later.

[0062] <1.7. Update part 14> The update unit 14 updates the machining result information. The update unit 14 receives a machining completion signal from the machining device 3 and updates the utilization rate of tool components as machining result information according to the machining process template executed in each machining device and the tools attached to each machining device.

[0063] <1.8. Notification section 15> The notification unit 15 provides notifications based on tool information. The notification unit 15 provides notifications based on the set usage threshold (notification threshold) and the usage rate of the tool designated for use in machining. The notification unit 15 also provides notifications based on the combination of tool ID and pod ID associated with the template candidate and the combination of pod ID and set tool ID associated with the machining device 3.

[0064] <1.9. Integration Department 16> The integration unit 16 integrates the tool masters. The integration unit 16 integrates the tool masters based on multiple tool component IDs associated with a tool ID. Specifically, when multiple tool components associated with each tool that has been assigned a different tool ID have the same tool component ID, the integration unit 16 generates a new tool ID that associates the different tool IDs and integrates the tool masters.

[0065] <1.10. Display Processing Unit 17> The display processing unit 17 processes a screen displaying various information from the database 23 distributed by the distribution unit 21, and displays the display processing results to the display unit 95.

[0066] Furthermore, the display processing unit 17, based on the tool pod master (installation element master), highlights and displays temporary tools (temporary processing device elements) that are different from the tools of the specified processing device.

[0067] Furthermore, the information management device 2 may process and display various information stored in the database 23, and the user terminal device 1 may receive the transmitted display processing results and display various screens on the display unit 95. For the sake of simplicity, the distribution unit 21 and the data storage unit 22 will be omitted from the explanation to the extent that it does not become unclear.

[0068] <2. Processing Flow> The following describes a processing management method using a processing management system, with reference to Figures 5-9. Figure 5 is a flowchart showing the process from operating the user terminal device 1 and registering various information for executing the processing, to the control of the processing device 3 and processing auxiliary equipment corresponding to the user terminal device 1, and the registration of processing result information.

[0069] <2.1. Acceptance of Designation of Processing Targets> First, in step S1 (hereinafter simply referred to as SX), the setting unit 11 accepts the designation of the object to be processed. In this embodiment, the setting unit 11 accepts the designation of the part number of the industrial part to be processed.

[0070] <2.2. Acceptance of designation of process (combination of processing equipment and processing template)> In S2, the setting unit 11 accepts the specification of a process. In this embodiment, multiple processes are associated with each part number of the product to be processed, and each process is associated with a combination of processing equipment 3 and processing template related to the execution of that process. The setting unit 11 accepts the specification of a process corresponding to the part number of the product to be processed specified in S1, and thereby accepts the specification of the processing equipment 3 and processing template to be used for processing.

[0071] <2.3. Specifying the Processing Template> In S3, the setting unit 11 receives a specification of a processing template to be used for processing from among the template candidates. In this embodiment, one or more template candidates are associated with the processing template linked to the process specified in S2. The setting unit 11 then receives a specification from the user of a processing template candidate to be used to execute the processing on the processing device 3, and registers the said processing template candidate as the execution processing template.

[0072] Specifically, the display processing unit 17 displays multiple candidate processing templates associated with the processing template specified in S2, and the setting unit 11 receives a specification from the user terminal device 1 for a candidate processing template to be executed in the process specified in S2, and registers the candidate processing template as an executable processing template.

[0073] Figure 6 shows an example of a screen displaying the details of each processing template, as shown on the user terminal device 1. In the example, the part number "HXXXX" of the target to be processed is specified in S1, the process ID "K1164" is specified in S2, and the processing device 3 "3MC" and processing template ID "PG8876" corresponding to the process ID are displayed. The template candidate ID field (labeled "Template Candidate ID" in the example) is editable, and in the example, template candidate IDs associated with processing template ID "PG8876" are displayed in a pull-down format for selection. Then, the processing template candidate for the selected template candidate ID is displayed as the execution processing template, and the number of items associated with the execution processing template, cycle time, etc. are displayed.

[0074] <2.4. Designation of temporary tools> In S4, the setting unit 11 accepts the designation of a temporary tool. In this embodiment, the setting unit 11 accepts the designation of a tool associated with the execution machining process template specified in S3, based on the tool list master (element list master), as a temporary tool (temporary machining device element) to be executed in the machining process.

[0075] In the example shown in Figure 6, multiple tools associated with the ID (PG8876) of the execution machining process template specified in S3 are listed as temporary tools. In this embodiment, the tool pod number (in the example shown, "pod number") and the combination of temporary tools are displayed based on the tool pod and tool combination in the tool list master.

[0076] <2.5. Determination of temporary tools> In S5, the display processing unit 17 determines whether there are any combinations of temporary tools and tool pod numbers that differ from the combinations of set tools and tool pod numbers in the tool pod master (installation element master). In this embodiment, the display processing unit 17 identifies the set tools and tool pod numbers of the processing device 3 associated with the process specified in S2 based on the tool pod master. Then, the display processing unit 17 identifies combinations of temporary tools and tool pod numbers that differ from the combinations of set tools and tool pod numbers of the processing device 3 that were identified in S4.

[0077] <2.6. Highlighting temporary tools> In this embodiment, if the display processing unit 17 identifies a combination of temporary tools and tool pods that is different from the set tool and tool pod of the machining device 3 associated with the process specified in S2 (YES in S5), it highlights and displays the identified temporary tools and tool pods. In addition, the display processing unit 17 highlights and displays any temporary tools among those specified in S4 that are associated with a machining device 3 that is different from the machining device 3 associated with the process specified in S2 (S6). On the other hand, if there are no combinations of temporary tools and tool pods among those specified in S4 that are different from the set tool and tool pod of the machining device 3 associated with the process specified in S2 (NO in S5), the process proceeds to S8.

[0078] <2.7. Acceptance of Designation for This Tool> In S7, the setting unit 11 registers the temporary tool associated with the specified execution machining process template as the main tool. In this embodiment, the setting unit 11 accepts the designation of the tool to be used in the machining process based on the tool of the specified machining device 3 and the temporary tool associated with the specified execution machining process template, and registers the tool as the main tool. Specifically, the setting unit 11 registers the main tool based on the combination of the tool pod and temporary tool associated with the specified execution machining process template, and the tool pod and set tool of the tool pod master (installation element master) of the specified machining device 3.

[0079] More specifically, the setting unit 11 identifies combinations of tool pods that are identical in the tool pod and temporary tool combination associated with the specified execution machining process template, and in the tool pod and set tool combination of the machining device 3's tool pod master associated with the process specified in S2. The setting unit 11 then updates the tool of the combination identified in the tool pod master to the temporary tool of the combination identified among the combinations associated with the execution machining process template, and registers the temporary tool as the permanent tool.

[0080] For example, by accepting the "Set in tool pod" selection input in Figure 7, the tool pod master is referenced, and for the combination of tool pod and set tool associated with the equipment name "3MC", the set tool corresponding to the same tool pod as the tool pod associated with the execution machining process template is identified, and the temporary tool associated with the execution machining process template is set as the main tool for that set tool. Then, the highlighting display for the combination of tool pod and the main tool disappears.

[0081] <2.8. Setting of Control Information for Attached Devices> In S8, the setting unit 11 registers the control information for the auxiliary equipment. The setting unit 11 receives input from the user regarding the setting of control information for each machining auxiliary equipment, which is a combination of the power state of the machining auxiliary equipment (ON or OFF) and the timing of the power state switching (elapsed time from the start of the machining process), and registers it in the database 23 as the control information for the auxiliary equipment.

[0082] Figure 8 shows an example of a control management screen for viewing auxiliary equipment control information. In the example, for one processing template (PG8876 in the example), the ON or OFF status of each auxiliary control device (Mist Collector, Dust Collector, and Lighting Unit in the example) and the timing (in seconds) of the power state switching are displayed.

[0083] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the control time editing screen, which allows editing of auxiliary equipment control information, is configured to accept the specification of ON or OFF for each processing auxiliary equipment at 5-second intervals, and the setting unit 11 accepts the power status specification from the user for each interval and registers the auxiliary equipment control information. Specifically, the control time editing screen displays a table having an axis of switching timing from the start of processing and an axis of one or more processing auxiliary equipment.

[0084] In a preferred configuration, time interval templates are pre-set for each processing accessory and power state (ON or OFF). When the setting unit 11 receives a power state and power state switching timing from the user, it registers accessory control information based on the time interval template, indicating that the specified power state will continue from the specified power state switching timing until the time interval corresponding to that power state. For example, if the processing accessory is a dust collector, the time interval template is set to 10 seconds for power state "ON" and 60 seconds for power state "OFF". If power state "ON" is specified for a switching timing of "0 seconds", power state "ON" will be set between the switching timing of "0 seconds" and "10 seconds".

[0085] In a preferred configuration, the setting unit 11 sets the power switching timing for each processing accessory based on the specified processing template. Specifically, the setting unit 11 identifies and sets the power state switching timing for the processing accessory to a predetermined time before the cycle time of the processing template specified in S1 has elapsed, after the processing has started. As a result, the amount of mist generated varies depending on the processing template, and the time required to recover the mist also varies for each processing template, allowing for the proper recovery of mist, dust, and other materials.

[0086] <2.9. Control of the device> As described above, steps S1 to S8 are executed, setting the information necessary for the machining process, and the following specific machining process is performed by operating the user terminal device 1, which is connected one-to-one with the machining device 3 (S9).

[0087] <2.9.1. Control of Processing Equipment> In S91, the machining control unit 12 controls the machining apparatus 3. In this embodiment, the machining control unit 12 controls the machining apparatus 3 corresponding to the user terminal device 1 based on the execution machining process template specified in S3. Specifically, the machining control unit 12 controls the machining apparatus 3 to execute machining processes based on the template body pre-set in the execution machining process template for one machining target until the cycle time of the specified execution machining process template has elapsed.

[0088] <2.9.2. Control of the Mist Collector> In S92, the mist collector control unit 131 of the accessory equipment control unit 13 controls the mist collector. In this embodiment, the mist collector control unit 131 controls the mist collector based on the power supply state and power supply state switching timing set for the mist collector in the accessory equipment control information set in S8.

[0089] <2.9.3. Dust Collector Control> In S93, the dust collector control unit 132 of the accessory equipment control unit 13 controls the dust collector (chip conveyor). In this embodiment, the dust collector control unit 132 controls the dust collector based on the power supply state and power supply state switching timing set for the dust collector in the accessory equipment control information set in S8.

[0090] <2.9.4. Control of the Lighting Unit> In S94, the lighting control unit 133 of the accessory equipment control unit 13 controls the lighting unit 36. In this embodiment, the lighting control unit 133 controls the lighting unit 36 ​​based on the power supply state and power supply state switching timing set for the lighting unit 36 ​​in the accessory equipment control information set in S8.

[0091] <2.10. Updating Processing Result Information> In S10, the update unit 14 updates the machining result information regarding the results after the machining process. In this embodiment, the update unit 14 receives a signal indicating the completion of machining from the machining device 3 associated with the process specified in S2 via the user terminal device 1 corresponding to the machining device 3. The update unit 14 then updates the usage rate of the tool as machining result information based on the tool life reduction value of the execution machining process template specified in S3 and the tool life of the tool registered in S7.

[0092] Specifically, the update unit 14 identifies the tool life reduction value based on the template candidate ID and template candidate master of the execution machining process template received from each machining device 3, identifies the usage rate and usage multiplier for each tool component based on the tool ID and tool component master of the actual tool received from each machining device 3, and identifies the tool life for each tool as the tool life for each tool component based on the tool ID and tool list master of the actual tool received from each machining device 3. Then, the update unit 14 calculates the usage rate of the tool component (= ((number of times the tool component was used up to the previous machining process + tool life reduction value × tool component usage multiplier) / tool life) × 100 (%) based on the tool life reduction value, and the usage rate, usage multiplier, and tool life for each tool component, and updates the usage rate for each tool component. This allows for monitoring the degree of wear on each tool component and adjusting the usage rate of each component accordingly.

[0093] Furthermore, the update unit 14 updates information related to the production of industrial parts processed by the processing device 3 as processing result information.

[0094] <2.11. Display of Processing Result Information> In S11, the display processing unit 17 processes the processing result information for display. In this embodiment, the display processing unit 17 processes the processing result information updated in S10 for display and displays the display processing result on the user terminal device 1 corresponding to the processing device 3.

[0095] Figure 9 is an example of a screen displayed on the user terminal device 1 that shows information about the machining process executed on the machining device 3. In the example shown, multiple tables for the machining device 3 (equipment name "3MC" in the example) are displayed one row at a time (TB1 and TB2 in the example), and the execution machining process template for executing the machining process in each table is displayed in the template setting unit TPS for each table. Figure 9 also displays information about the industrial parts produced and the materials before machining in each table. In addition, the usage rate calculated in S10 for this tool, which is registered in association with the machining device 3 corresponding to the user terminal device 1, is displayed.

[0096] By executing steps S1 to S11, the results of machining processes performed on multiple machining devices 3 can be centrally managed, and the usage rate of tools commonly used in each machining device can be shared with each user terminal device 1. Furthermore, by registering multiple program candidates in step 1 and managing the tool usage rate for each program candidate, the program to be executed can be changed while monitoring the status of the machining device and tools, and even if the program to be executed is changed, the tool usage rate can be accurately managed.

[0097] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the setting unit 11 sets a tool life reduction value for the machining process template candidate based on the number of jigs (tools for fixing tools) of the machining apparatus 3.

[0098] In this embodiment, the processing result information of the processing device 3 corresponding to the user terminal device 1 is displayed on the user terminal device 1. However, the processing result information of each processing device 3 may be displayed in a switchable manner using an external user terminal device that can communicate with the information management device 2. In this case, the display processing unit of the user terminal device receives a specification from the user for the processing device 3 whose information is to be displayed, and processes the display of the processing result information of that processing device 3. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0099] 0: Processing Management System 1: User terminal device 2: Information management device 3: Processing equipment 100: Server 101: Processing Unit 102: Storage section 103: Communications Department 9: Terminal device 91: Processing Unit 92: Storage section 93: Communications Department 94: Input section 95:Display section 31: Processing Unit 32: Processing section 33: Communications Department 34: Collector section 35: Lighting part 36: Lighting Department 37: Storage section 11: Settings Section 12: Machining Control Unit 13: Auxiliary Equipment Control Unit 131: Mist Collector Unit 132: Dust collector section 133: Lighting Control Unit 14: Update section 15:Notification section 16: Integration Department 17: Display Processing Unit 21: Distribution Department 22: Data storage unit 23: Database

Claims

1. A modified machining management system for machining in multiple machining devices, The aforementioned processing management system comprises a database, a setting unit, an update unit, and a display processing unit. The aforementioned database stores the element lifespan of the processing equipment elements, The setting unit receives a specification of a processing template for executing the processing in the processing device, The update unit receives a signal indicating the completion of processing by the processing apparatus, and updates the utilization rate of the processing apparatus elements according to the processing template executed in the processing apparatus and the element life of the processing apparatus elements attached to the processing apparatus. The processing apparatus element is used across the plurality of processing apparatuses, The display processing unit displays the usage rate for each element of the processing apparatus. Processing management system.

2. A modified machining management system for machining in multiple machining devices, The aforementioned processing management system comprises a database, a setting unit, and an update unit. The database stores the element lifespan of the processing equipment elements, an installation element master indicating the processing equipment elements of the processing equipment, and an element list master indicating the processing equipment elements used in the processing of a processing template for executing processing in the processing equipment. The setting unit receives the processing template and the designation of the processing device to perform the processing, and based on the processing device elements of the designated processing device and the processing device elements associated with the designated processing template, it receives the designation of the processing device elements to be used for the processing. The update unit receives a signal indicating the completion of processing by the processing apparatus and updates the utilization rate of the processing apparatus elements according to the processing template executed in the processing apparatus and the element lifespan of the processing apparatus elements attached to the processing apparatus. Processing management system.

3. A modified machining management system for machining in multiple machining devices, The aforementioned processing management system comprises a database, a setting unit, an update unit, and a display processing unit. The database stores the element lifespan of the processing equipment elements, an installation element master indicating the processing equipment elements of the processing equipment, and an element list master indicating the processing equipment elements used in the processing of a processing template for executing processing in the processing equipment. The setting unit receives the designation of the processing template and the processing device to perform the processing, and accepts the designation of the processing device elements associated with the processing template as temporary processing device elements. The update unit receives a signal indicating the completion of processing by the processing apparatus, and updates the utilization rate of the processing apparatus elements according to the processing template executed in the processing apparatus and the element life of the processing apparatus elements attached to the processing apparatus. The display processing unit, based on the installation element master, highlights and displays the temporary processing device elements that are different from the processing device elements of the specified processing device among the designated temporary processing device elements. Processing management system.

4. A modified machining management system for machining in multiple machining devices, The aforementioned processing management system comprises a database, a setting unit, an update unit, and an auxiliary equipment control unit. The database stores the element lifespan of the processing equipment elements and accessory equipment control information indicating the control time of the processing accessory equipment for each processing template used to execute the processing in the processing equipment. The setting unit receives the specification of the processing template, The update unit receives a signal indicating the completion of processing by the processing apparatus, and updates the utilization rate of the processing apparatus elements according to the processing template executed in the processing apparatus and the element life of the processing apparatus elements attached to the processing apparatus. The auxiliary equipment control unit controls the processing auxiliary equipment based on the specified processing template and the auxiliary equipment control information. Processing management system.

5. The database further stores the element life reduction value for each processing template, The update unit updates the utilization rate based on the element life reduction value of the processing template executed in each processing device and the element life of the processing device elements attached to each processing device. A processing management system according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. The aforementioned processing management system further comprises a notification unit, The setting unit receives the designation of the processing device elements to be used in the processing process, The notification unit provides a notification based on the threshold usage rate and the usage rate of the specified processing device element. A processing management system according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

7. The setting unit sets the power switching timing of the processing equipment as the control time, based on the cycle time of the processing template. The processing management system according to claim 4.

8. The aforementioned processing management system further comprises a display processing unit, The display processing unit displays a control time editing screen that allows for modification of the power switching timing of the processing equipment for each processing template. The control time editing screen includes a table having an axis representing the switching timing from the start of machining and an axis representing one or more machining accessories. The processing management system according to claim 4.

9. A machining management program for managing machining operations in multiple machining devices, The aforementioned processing management program causes the computer to function as a database, setting unit, update unit, and display processing unit. The aforementioned database stores the element lifespan of the processing equipment elements, The setting unit receives a specification of a processing template for executing the processing in the processing device, The update unit receives a signal indicating the completion of processing by the processing apparatus, and updates the utilization rate of the processing apparatus elements according to the processing template executed in the processing apparatus and the lifespan of the processing apparatus elements attached to the processing apparatus. The processing apparatus element is used across the plurality of processing apparatuses, The display processing unit displays the usage rate for each element of the processing apparatus. Processing control program.

10. A processing control method for managing processing in multiple processing devices, Computers A process for storing the element lifespan of processing equipment elements, A process for receiving the specification of a processing template for executing the processing in the aforementioned processing apparatus, The process of receiving a signal indicating the completion of processing in the processing apparatus, updating the utilization rate of the processing apparatus elements according to the processing template executed in the processing apparatus and the lifespan of the processing apparatus elements attached to the processing apparatus, The processing apparatus element is used across the plurality of processing apparatuses, A process for displaying the usage rate for each of the processing apparatus elements, A processing control method for executing this process.

11. A machining management program for managing machining operations in multiple machining devices, The aforementioned processing management program uses a computer as a database, a settings unit, and an update unit. The database stores the element lifespan of the processing equipment elements, an installation element master indicating the processing equipment elements of the processing equipment, and an element list master indicating the processing equipment elements used in the processing of a processing template for executing processing in the processing equipment. The setting unit receives the processing template and the designation of the processing device to perform the processing, and based on the processing device elements of the designated processing device and the processing device elements associated with the designated processing template, it receives the designation of the processing device elements to be used for the processing. The update unit receives a signal indicating the completion of processing by the processing apparatus and updates the processing template executed by the processing apparatus and the utilization rate of the processing apparatus elements according to the element lifespan of the processing apparatus elements attached to the processing apparatus. Processing control program.

12. A processing control method for managing processing in multiple processing devices, Computers A process for storing the element lifespan of the processing equipment elements, an installation element master indicating the processing equipment elements of the processing equipment, and an element list master indicating the processing equipment elements used in the processing of a processing template for executing processing in the processing equipment, A process that accepts the designation of the processing template and the processing apparatus that will perform the processing, and accepts the designation of the processing apparatus elements to be used in the processing based on the processing apparatus elements of the designated processing apparatus and the processing apparatus elements associated with the designated processing template, The process of receiving a signal indicating the completion of processing in the processing apparatus, updating the utilization rate of the processing apparatus elements according to the processing template executed in the processing apparatus and the lifespan of the processing apparatus elements attached to the processing apparatus, A processing control method for executing this process.

13. A machining management program for managing machining operations in multiple machining devices, The aforementioned processing management program causes the computer to function as a database, setting unit, update unit, and display processing unit. The database stores the element lifespan of the processing equipment elements, an installation element master indicating the processing equipment elements of the processing equipment, and an element list master indicating the processing equipment elements used in the processing of a processing template for executing processing in the processing equipment. The setting unit receives the designation of the processing template and the processing device to perform the processing, and accepts the designation of the processing device elements associated with the processing template as temporary processing device elements. The update unit receives a signal indicating the completion of processing by the processing apparatus, and updates the utilization rate of the processing apparatus elements according to the processing template executed in the processing apparatus and the lifespan of the processing apparatus elements attached to the processing apparatus. The display processing unit, based on the installation element master, highlights and displays the temporary processing device elements that are different from the processing device elements of the specified processing device among the designated temporary processing device elements. Processing control program.

14. A processing control method for managing processing in multiple processing devices, Computers A process for storing the element lifespan of the processing equipment elements, an installation element master indicating the processing equipment elements of the processing equipment, and an element list master indicating the processing equipment elements used in the processing of a processing template for executing processing in the processing equipment, A process that accepts the designation of the processing template and the processing apparatus that will perform the processing, and accepts the designation of the processing apparatus elements associated with the processing template as temporary processing apparatus elements, The process of receiving a signal indicating the completion of processing in the processing apparatus, updating the utilization rate of the processing apparatus elements according to the processing template executed in the processing apparatus and the lifespan of the processing apparatus elements attached to the processing apparatus, Based on the installation element master, the process of highlighting and displaying the temporary processing device elements that are different from the processing device elements of the specified processing device, A processing control method for executing this process.

15. A machining management program for managing machining operations in multiple machining devices, The aforementioned processing management program causes the computer to function as a database, setting unit, update unit, and auxiliary equipment control unit. The database stores the element lifespan of the processing equipment elements and accessory equipment control information indicating the control time of the processing accessory equipment for each processing template used to execute the processing in the processing equipment. The setting unit receives the specification of the processing template, The update unit receives a signal indicating the completion of processing by the processing apparatus, and updates the utilization rate of the processing apparatus elements according to the processing template executed in the processing apparatus and the lifespan of the processing apparatus elements attached to the processing apparatus. The auxiliary equipment control unit controls the processing auxiliary equipment based on the specified processing template and the auxiliary equipment control information. Processing control program.

16. A processing control method for managing processing in multiple processing devices, Computers A process for storing the element life of a processing device element and auxiliary equipment control information indicating the control time of the processing auxiliary equipment of the processing device for each processing template used to execute the processing in the processing device, A process for receiving the specification of the aforementioned processing template, The process of receiving a signal indicating the completion of processing in the processing apparatus, updating the utilization rate of the processing apparatus elements according to the processing template executed in the processing apparatus and the lifespan of the processing apparatus elements attached to the processing apparatus, A process to control the processing equipment based on the specified processing template and the equipment control information, A processing control method for executing this process.

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