Time calculation device and computer-readable storage medium

Abstract

The present invention provides a time calculating device comprising: a machining time prediction unit that predicts a machining time of first machining to be executed on a machining apparatus on the basis of a machining program; and a time calculation unit that calculates an operating time from the startup to the end of machining by the machining apparatus in the first machining on the basis of a preparation time for preparing for the first machining, a setup time for the first machining, and the machining time predicted by the machining time prediction unit.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a time calculation device and a computer-readable storage medium.

Background Art

[0002] A technique for predicting the processing time of parts based on a processing program is known (for example, Patent Document 1). By using this technique, the processing start time can be obtained by calculating backward from the processing end time. An operator determines the timing to turn on the power of the processing machine in consideration of the processing start time and the preparation time required for the preparation of the processing.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, it is difficult for an inexperienced operator to determine how much time is required for the preparation of the processing. Therefore, there is a risk that the power of the processing machine is turned on at an unnecessarily early timing and unnecessary power is consumed. Due to the increasing demand for energy conservation in recent years, it is required to manage the power-on timing more precisely.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] The time calculation device includes a processing time prediction unit that predicts the processing time of a first processing executed in a processing machine based on a processing program, and a preparation time for the preparation of the first processing, Preparation time follows a setup time for the first processing, and Following the setup time a time calculation unit that calculates an operation time from the start of activation to the end of processing of the processing machine in the first processing based on the processing time predicted by the processing time prediction unit.

[0006] A computer-readable storage medium predicts the machining time for a first machining operation performed on a machining machine based on a machining program, and the preparation time for preparing for the first machining operation. Preparation time follows Setup time for the first machining process, and Following the setup time Based on the predicted processing time, the system calculates the operating time from the start of the processing machine to the end of the processing in the first processing step, and stores the command for the computer to perform this calculation. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] One aspect of this disclosure allows for appropriate control of the power-on timing. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] This figure shows an overview of an example of a system equipped with a time calculation device. [Figure 2] This block diagram shows an example of the hardware configuration of a time calculation device. [Figure 3] A block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of a numerical control device. [Figure 4] Block diagram showing an example of the functions of a time calculation device. [Figure 5] This diagram illustrates the operation time calculated by the time calculation unit. [Figure 6] This flowchart shows an example of the process performed by the time calculation device. [Figure 7] Block diagram showing an example of the functions of a time calculation device. [Figure 8] This is an example of a table stored in the preparation time memory unit. [Figure 9] This is an example of a table stored in the preparation time memory unit. [Figure 10] This is an example of a table stored in the preparation time memory unit. [Figure 11] This flowchart shows an example of a process performed in a time calculation device. [Figure 12]It is a block diagram showing an example of the functions of a time calculation device. [Figure 13] It is a flowchart showing an example of the processing executed by the time calculation device. [Figure 14] It is a block diagram showing an example of the functions of a time calculation device. [Figure 15] It is a diagram for explaining the relationship between the time acquired by the time calculation device and the time calculated. [Figure 16] It is a flowchart showing an example of the processing executed in the time calculation device.

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0009] Hereinafter, the time calculation device according to the embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that not all combinations of the features described in the following embodiments are necessarily required to solve the problems. Also, there may be cases where more detailed explanations than necessary are omitted. Further, the descriptions and drawings of the following embodiments are provided for those skilled in the art to fully understand the present disclosure and are not intended to limit the scope of the claims.

[0010] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an overview of an example of a system including a time calculation device. The system 1 includes a time calculation device 2 and a processing machine 3. The time calculation device 2 is a device that calculates the time from the start of activation to the end of processing of the processing machine 3. The functions of the time calculation device 2 will be described in detail later.

[0011] The processing machine 3 is a device that processes a workpiece. The processing machine 3 is, for example, a machine tool, a wire electrical discharge machining machine, an injection molding machine, a laser processing machine, and a 3D printer. The processing machine 3 includes a numerical control device 4.

[0012] The numerical control device 4 is a device for controlling each part of the processing machine 3. The functions of the numerical control device 4 will be described in detail later.

[0013] The time calculation device 2 and the numerical control device 4 are connected to each other through a network line such as a LAN (Local Area Network). The time calculation device 2 and the numerical control device 4 are connected by a wired connection or a wireless connection.

[0014] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the time calculation device 2. The time calculation device 2 is implemented in a computer such as a PC (Personal Computer), a server, or a tablet terminal, for example. The time calculation device 2 includes a hardware processor 201, a bus 202, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 203, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 204, a non-volatile memory 205, and an interface 206.

[0015] The hardware processor 201 is a processor that controls the entire time calculation device 2 according to a system program. The hardware processor 201 reads out a system program stored in the ROM 203 via the bus 202 and performs various processes based on the system program. The hardware processor 201 is, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or an electronic circuit.

[0016] The bus 202 is a communication path that connects each hardware in the time calculation device 2 to each other. Each hardware in the time calculation device 2 exchanges data via the bus 202.

[0017] The ROM 203 is a storage device that stores a system program for controlling the entire time calculation device 2 and the like. The ROM 203 is a computer-readable storage medium.

[0018] The RAM 204 is a storage device that temporarily stores various data. The RAM 204 functions as a work area for the hardware processor 201 to process various data.

[0019] The non-volatile memory 205 is a storage device that retains data even when the power to the time calculation device 2 is turned off and no power is supplied to the time calculation device 2. The non-volatile memory 205 stores data used, for example, to calculate the operating time from the start of the processing machine 3 to the end of processing. The non-volatile memory 205 is a computer-readable storage medium. The non-volatile memory 205 consists of, for example, battery-backed memory or an SSD (Solid State Drive).

[0020] Interface 206 connects bus 202 to the network line. The time calculation device 2 transmits and receives data to and from the numerical control device 4 via interface 206.

[0021] Figure 3 is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the numerical control device 4. The numerical control device 4 comprises a hardware processor 401, a bus 402, a ROM 403, a RAM 404, a non-volatile memory 405, an axis control circuit 406, and an interface 407.

[0022] The hardware processor 401 is a processor that controls the entire numerical control device 4 according to the system program. The hardware processor 401 reads the system program and other data stored in the ROM 403 via the bus 402 and performs various processing based on the system program. For example, the hardware processor 401 controls the servo motor (not shown) of the machining machine 3 based on the machining program. The hardware processor 401 is, for example, a CPU or an electronic circuit.

[0023] The hardware processor 401 performs, for example, analysis of the machining program and output of control commands to servo motors, etc., for each control cycle.

[0024] Bus 402 is a communication path that connects each piece of hardware within the numerical control unit 4 to each other. Each piece of hardware within the numerical control unit 4 exchanges data via bus 402.

[0025] ROM403 is a memory device that stores system programs and other information for controlling the entire numerical control unit 4. ROM403 is a computer-readable storage medium.

[0026] RAM404 is a memory device that temporarily stores various types of data. RAM404 functions as a workspace for the hardware processor 401 to process various types of data.

[0027] The non-volatile memory 405 is a storage device that retains data even when the power to the processing machine 3 is turned off and power is not supplied to the numerical control device 4. The non-volatile memory 405 stores, for example, processing programs and various parameters. The non-volatile memory 405 is a computer-readable storage medium. The non-volatile memory 405 consists of, for example, battery-backed memory or an SSD.

[0028] The axis control circuit 406 is a circuit that controls the servo motor of the machining center 3. The axis control circuit 406 drives the servo motor in response to control commands from the hardware processor 401.

[0029] Interface 407 connects bus 402 to the network line. The numerical control unit 4 transmits and receives data to and from the time calculation device 2 via interface 407.

[0030] Figure 4 is a block diagram showing an example of the functions of the time calculation device 2. The time calculation device 2 includes, for example, a program acquisition unit 211, a processing time prediction unit 212, a preparation time acquisition unit 213, a setup time acquisition unit 214, a time calculation unit 215, and an output unit 216. The program acquisition unit 211, the processing time prediction unit 212, the preparation time acquisition unit 213, the setup time acquisition unit 214, the time calculation unit 215, and the output unit 216 are realized, for example, by a hardware processor 201 performing calculations using a system program stored in ROM 203 and various data stored in non-volatile memory 205.

[0031] The program acquisition unit 211 acquires the machining program to be executed by the numerical control device 4. The machining program is a program that specifies the machining shape of the workpiece, machining conditions, tools to be used, etc. The machining program includes command codes such as G codes, M codes, and F codes.

[0032] G-codes are used to command positioning, linear interpolation, and circular interpolation. M-codes are used to command auxiliary functions such as spindle rotation and turning cutting fluid on or off. F-codes are used to command the feed rate of the control axis.

[0033] The program acquisition unit 211 acquires the machining program from the numerical control device 4 via a network line, for example. If the machining program is stored in the non-volatile memory 205 of the time calculation device, the program acquisition unit 211 may acquire the machining program from the non-volatile memory 205.

[0034] The machining time prediction unit 212 predicts the machining time for the first machining operation to be performed on the machining center 3 based on the machining program acquired by the program acquisition unit 211. The machining time prediction unit 212 predicts the machining time for the workpiece based on the movement path of the control axis specified by the G code and the feed rate of the control axis specified by the F code. The first machining operation is any machining operation performed based on the machining program acquired by the program acquisition unit 211, and it is sufficient if it is a machining operation that can be distinguished from the second machining operation, which will be described later. In other words, the first machining operation does not refer to a machining operation with specific machining content.

[0035] The preparation time acquisition unit 213 acquires the preparation time for the preparation of the first processing. The preparation time acquisition unit 213 acquires the preparation time that has been pre-stored in the non-volatile memory 205 of the time calculation device 2, for example. The preparation time should be stored in the non-volatile memory 205 based on the operator's input operation to the time calculation device 2. The preparation time acquisition unit 213 may also acquire the preparation time from an external device such as a server connected to the time calculation device 2.

[0036] Preparation time is determined or calculated based on at least one of the specifications, type, and settings of the processing machine 3.

[0037] The preparation time may be, for example, at least one of the following: the time from when the power to the processing machine 3 is turned on until the system program is loaded in the numerical control device 4; the time required to wake the processing machine 3 from sleep mode; the time required for the processing machine 3 to warm up; and the time from when the power to the peripheral devices of the processing machine 3 is turned on until startup is complete. Alternatively, it may be at least two of these times.

[0038] Peripheral equipment may include, for example, lighting equipment around the processing machine 3, a chiller for cooling the spindle of the processing machine 3, and so on.

[0039] The setup time acquisition unit 214 acquires the setup time for the first machining operation. The setup time may include at least one of the following: the time to attach the tool to the machining center 3, the time for the operator to set the tool information in the numerical control device 4, the time to attach the machining jig to the table, and the time to attach the workpiece to the machining center 3.

[0040] The time calculation unit 215 calculates the time from the start of operation of the machining center 3 to the end of operation in the first machining process, based on the preparation time for the first machining process, the setup time for the first machining process, and the machining time predicted by the machining time prediction unit 212. Hereinafter, this calculated time will be referred to as the operating time.

[0041] Figure 5 illustrates the operation time calculated by the time calculation unit 215. The time calculation unit 215 calculates the operation time by, for example, adding up the preparation time, setup time, and processing time. Furthermore, if the preparation and setup for the first processing are performed simultaneously in part, the time calculation unit 215 may calculate the operation time by subtracting a predetermined time from the sum of the preparation time, setup time, and processing time. Alternatively, the time calculation unit 215 may calculate the operation time by multiplying the sum of the preparation time, setup time, and processing time by a numerical value representing a predetermined percentage.

[0042] The output unit 216 outputs the operating time from the start of operation of the processing machine 3 to the end of operation, which is calculated by the time calculation unit 215. The output unit 216 outputs the operating time from the start of operation of the processing machine 3 to the end of operation to operation of operation of the processing machine 3 to a display device (not shown) of the time calculation device 2.

[0043] Figure 6 is a flowchart showing an example of the process performed by the time calculation device 2. First, the processing program is acquired by the program acquisition unit 211 in the time calculation device 2 (step SA1).

[0044] Next, the machining time prediction unit 212 predicts the machining time required when the machining program acquired by the program acquisition unit 211 is executed (step SA2).

[0045] Next, the preparation time acquisition unit 213 acquires the preparation time for the machining process to be executed based on the machining program (step SA3).

[0046] Next, the setup time acquisition unit 214 acquires the setup time required for the machining process to be executed based on the machining program (step SA4).

[0047] Next, the time calculation unit 215 calculates the operating time from the start of the machining center 3 to the end of machining, based on the preparation time, setup time, and machining time (step SA5). Finally, the output unit 216 outputs the operating time (step SA6), and the process ends.

[0048] As described above, the time calculation device 2 includes a processing time prediction unit 212 that predicts the processing time of the first processing to be performed in the processing machine 3 based on a processing program, and a time calculation unit 215 that calculates the operating time from the start of the processing machine 3 to the end of processing in the first processing, based on the preparation time for preparing for the first processing, the setup time for the first processing, and the processing time predicted by the processing time prediction unit 212.

[0049] Therefore, the time calculation device 2 can provide the operator with the appropriate timing for turning the power on or off. As a result, the time calculation device 2 can contribute to energy saving of the processing machine 3.

[0050] The time calculation device may calculate the operating time based on the preparation time specified for each operating condition of the processing machine 3.

[0051] Figure 7 is a block diagram showing an example of the functions of a time calculation device that calculates the operating time based on the preparation time specified for each operating condition of the processing machine 3. The time calculation device 21 includes, for example, a program acquisition unit 211, a processing time prediction unit 212, a preparation time storage unit 217, a condition acquisition unit 218, a preparation time acquisition unit 213, a setup time acquisition unit 214, a time calculation unit 215, and an output unit 216.

[0052] The program acquisition unit 211, the processing time prediction unit 212, the condition acquisition unit 218, the preparation time acquisition unit 213, the setup time acquisition unit 214, the time calculation unit 215, and the output unit 216 are realized, for example, by a hardware processor 201 performing calculations using the system program stored in the ROM 203 and various data stored in the non-volatile memory 205. The preparation time storage unit 217 is realized, for example, by storing the preparation time in the non-volatile memory 205.

[0053] The program acquisition unit 211, the machining time prediction unit 212, the setup time acquisition unit 214, and the output unit 216 are the same as those shown in Figure 4. Therefore, a detailed explanation of these functions will be omitted.

[0054] The preparation time storage unit 217 stores multiple preparation times associated with the operating conditions of the processing machine 3. The operating conditions are information indicating the state under which the processing machine 3 operates. For example, the operating conditions include information indicating the state of the processing machine 3, information indicating the state of the peripheral equipment of the processing machine 3, and information indicating the state of the environment in which the processing machine 3 is installed.

[0055] Information indicating the status of the processing machine 3 includes, for example, information indicating the elapsed time since the last operation of the processing machine 3 and information indicating the power status of the processing machine 3. Information indicating the status of the peripheral devices of the processing machine 3 includes information indicating the power status of the peripheral devices of the processing machine 3. Information indicating the state of the environment in which the processing machine 3 is installed includes information such as the temperature, season, and time of day in the factory where the processing machine 3 is installed. The preparation time storage unit 217 stores, for example, a table that associates operating conditions with preparation time.

[0056] Figure 8 shows an example of a table stored by the preparation time storage unit 217. The preparation time storage unit 217 stores, for example, the elapsed time since the last operation of the machining center 3 and the warm-up time in association. Warm-up is the process of warming up each part of the machining center 3 to a suitable state for machining by moving or rotating the control axis of the machining center 3 according to a predetermined program without performing any machining.

[0057] If the elapsed time since the last operation of the processing machine 3 is 1 hour, the warm-up time is 0 minutes. In other words, the temperature of each part of the processing machine 3 does not decrease for about 1 hour after the last operation. Also, the viscosity of the lubricating oil applied to the sliding parts does not increase for about 1 hour after the last operation. Therefore, the processing machine 3 does not need to be warmed up. For this reason, the preparation time storage unit 217 stores a warm-up time of 0 minutes in association with the elapsed time of 1 hour.

[0058] If 168 hours have elapsed since the last operation of the processing machine 3, the warm-up time is 20 minutes. If the processing machine 3 has been stopped for about a week, the temperature of each part of the processing machine 3 may have decreased, and the viscosity of the lubricating oil may have increased. In this case, it is necessary to warm up the processing machine 3 sufficiently before processing is performed. Therefore, the preparation time storage unit 217 stores a warm-up time of 20 minutes in association with the elapsed time of 168 hours.

[0059] If 24 hours have elapsed since the last operation of the processing machine 3, the warm-up time is 5 minutes. If the processing machine 3 has been stopped for 24 hours without operation, the temperature of various parts of the processing machine 3 may have dropped to some extent, and the viscosity of the lubricating oil may have increased slightly. In this case, it is necessary to perform a short warm-up before processing with the processing machine 3. Therefore, the preparation time storage unit 217 stores a warm-up time of 5 minutes in association with the elapsed time of 24 hours.

[0060] Figure 9 shows an example of a table stored by the preparation time storage unit 217. The preparation time storage unit 217 stores the power status of the processing machine 3 in association with the time required for startup. Here, the time required for startup is the time from when the power to the processing machine 3 is turned on until the numerical control device 4 has finished loading the system program.

[0061] When the power is on, the startup time is 0 seconds. In other words, when the power is on, the processing machine 3 has already started up. Therefore, the preparation time storage unit 217 stores the startup time of 0 seconds, corresponding to the power on state.

[0062] When the power supply is in sleep mode, the startup time is, for example, 5 seconds. When the power supply is in sleep mode, the processing machine 3 can start up quickly. Therefore, the preparation time storage unit 217 stores the startup time of 5 seconds in association with the sleep power supply state.

[0063] When the power is off, the startup time is, for example, 30 seconds. When the power is off, it takes a certain amount of time for the startup process of the processing machine 3 to be completed. Therefore, the preparation time storage unit 217 stores the startup time of 30 seconds in association with the off power state.

[0064] The preparation time storage unit 217 may store a table as which the state of the peripheral devices of the processing machine 3 is associated with the preparation time. For example, the table may store which the power supply status of the peripheral devices is associated with the time it takes to start up the peripheral devices.

[0065] The preparation time storage unit 217 may store a table as a correspondence between environmental conditions and preparation time, for example, a table associating the temperature inside the factory with the warm-up time of the processing machine 3. In this case, the preparation time storage unit 217 stores a table associating temperature with warm-up time such that the warm-up time becomes relatively shorter when the temperature inside the factory is relatively high.

[0066] Figure 10 shows an example of a table stored by the preparation time storage unit 217. The preparation time storage unit 217 stores, for example, the temperature inside the factory and the warm-up time in association with each other.

[0067] When the temperature inside the factory is 30°C or higher, the warm-up time is 0 minutes. In other words, when the temperature inside the factory is 30°C or higher, the temperature of each part that makes up the processing machine 3 is sufficiently warmed up. Also, when the temperature inside the factory is 30°C or higher, the viscosity of the lubricating oil applied to the sliding parts and other parts does not increase. Therefore, there is no need to warm up the processing machine 3. For this reason, the preparation time storage unit 217 stores a warm-up time of 0 minutes, corresponding to a temperature of 30°C.

[0068] If the temperature inside the factory is 10°C or lower, the warm-up time is 20 minutes. When the temperature inside the factory is 10°C or lower, the temperature of each part of the processing machine 3 may be low, and the viscosity of the lubricating oil may be high. In this case, it is necessary to warm up the processing machine 3 sufficiently before processing is performed. Therefore, the preparation time storage unit 217 stores a warm-up time of 20 minutes in association with a temperature of 10°C.

[0069] When the factory temperature is around 20°C, the warm-up time is 5 minutes. When the factory temperature is around 20°C, the temperature of each part of the processing machine 3 may be slightly lower, and the viscosity of the lubricating oil may also be slightly higher. In this case, it is necessary to perform a short warm-up before processing with the processing machine 3. Therefore, the preparation time storage unit 217 stores a warm-up time of 5 minutes, corresponding to a temperature of 20°C.

[0070] The preparation time storage unit 217 may store a table as a correspondence between environmental conditions and preparation times, for example, a table associating seasons with warm-up times. In this case, the warm-up time should be relatively longer in winter and relatively shorter in summer. The warm-up times in spring and autumn should be intermediate in length.

[0071] The condition acquisition unit 218 acquires the operating conditions of the processing machine 3. The condition acquisition unit 218 acquires the operating conditions stored, for example, in the memory unit (not shown) of the time calculation device 21. The operating conditions can be stored in the memory unit at predetermined timings or at predetermined intervals. Alternatively, the condition acquisition unit 218 may acquire the operating conditions from the numerical control device 4 and peripheral devices of the processing machine 3.

[0072] For example, if the memory unit of the time calculation device 21 stores the time when the power to the processing machine 3 was turned off, the time calculation device 21 can calculate the elapsed time since the last operation of the processing machine 3 based on that time. The condition acquisition unit 218 can acquire this calculated elapsed time since the last operation as an operating condition.

[0073] Furthermore, if the memory unit of the time calculation device 21 stores the time when the processing machine 3 was put into sleep mode and the time when the power of the processing machine 3 was turned on, the condition acquisition unit 218 can acquire information indicating the power status of the processing machine 3 based on this information.

[0074] In other words, if the time when the processing machine 3 was put into sleep mode is stored in the memory unit, and no process for waking the machine from sleep mode has been performed since then, the condition acquisition unit 218 can acquire the operating conditions indicating that the processing machine 3 is in sleep mode.

[0075] Furthermore, if the time when the power of the processing machine 3 was turned on is stored in the memory unit, and the power has not been turned off since then, the condition acquisition unit 218 can acquire the operating conditions indicating that the processing machine is in a power-on state. The condition acquisition unit 218 may also acquire information indicating the power status of the peripheral devices of the processing machine 3 stored in the memory unit of the time calculation device 21.

[0076] The operating conditions can be stored in the memory unit at predetermined timings or at predetermined intervals. For example, if the time when the power to the processing machine 3 is turned off is stored in the memory unit of the time calculation device 21, the time calculation device 21 can calculate the elapsed time since the last operation based on that time. The condition acquisition unit 218 can acquire this calculated elapsed time since the last operation as an operating condition.

[0077] The preparation time acquisition unit 213 acquires the preparation time based on the operating conditions acquired by the condition acquisition unit 218. The preparation time acquisition unit 213 refers to the table stored in the preparation time storage unit 217 and acquires the stored preparation time associated with the operating conditions.

[0078] For example, if the condition acquisition unit 218 acquires information indicating that the elapsed time since the last operation of the processing machine 3 is 24 hours, the preparation time acquisition unit 213 acquires 5 minutes as the preparation time. Also, if the condition acquisition unit 218 acquires information indicating that the power state of the processing machine 3 is off, the preparation time acquisition unit 213 acquires 30 seconds as the preparation time.

[0079] The time calculation unit 215 calculates the operating time from the start of operation to the end of operation of the processing machine 3 in the first processing, based on the preparation time acquired by the preparation time acquisition unit 213, the setup time for the first processing, and the processing time predicted by the processing time prediction unit 212.

[0080] The preparation time acquisition unit 213 may acquire multiple preparation times based on multiple operating conditions acquired by the condition acquisition unit 218. For example, the condition acquisition unit 218 may acquire information indicating that 24 hours have elapsed since the last operation of the processing machine 3 and information indicating that the power state of the processing machine 3 is off, as operating conditions. In this case, the preparation time acquisition unit 213 may acquire 5 minutes and 30 seconds as preparation times. The time calculation unit 215 can then calculate the operating time using the sum of these, 5.5 minutes, as the preparation time. Alternatively, the preparation time acquisition unit 213 may calculate the operating time as the longer of these preparation times.

[0081] Figure 11 is a flowchart showing an example of the process performed in the time calculation device 21, which calculates the operating time based on the preparation time defined for each operating condition. First, the processing program is acquired by the program acquisition unit 211 in the time calculation device 21 (step SB1).

[0082] Next, the machining time prediction unit 212 predicts the machining time required when the machining program acquired by the program acquisition unit 211 is executed (step SB2).

[0083] Next, the condition acquisition unit 218 acquires the operating conditions of the processing machine 3 (step SB3). Then, the preparation time acquisition unit 213 acquires the preparation time based on the operating conditions acquired by the condition acquisition unit 218 (step SB4).

[0084] Next, the setup time acquisition unit 214 acquires the setup time required for the machining process to be executed based on the machining program (step SB5).

[0085] Next, the time calculation unit 215 calculates the operating time from the start of the machining center 3 to the end of machining, based on the preparation time, setup time, and machining time (step SB6). Finally, the output unit 216 outputs the operating time (step SB7), and the process ends.

[0086] As described above, the time calculation device 21 further comprises a condition acquisition unit 218 that acquires the operating conditions of the processing machine 3, and a preparation time acquisition unit 213 that acquires the preparation time based on the operating conditions acquired by the condition acquisition unit 218.

[0087] Furthermore, the operating conditions include at least one of the following: information indicating the status of the processing machine 3, information regarding the environment in which the processing machine 3 is installed, and information indicating the status of peripheral devices installed around the processing machine 3.

[0088] Therefore, the time calculation device 21 can calculate the operating time according to the operating conditions of the processing machine 3. In other words, the time calculation device 21 can provide the operator with the appropriate timing for turning the power on or off. As a result, the time calculation device 21 can contribute to energy saving of the processing machine 3.

[0089] In the embodiment described above, if the timing at which the condition acquisition unit 218 acquires the operating conditions of the processing machine 3 differs significantly from the timing at which the processing machine 3 starts up, the preparation time acquisition unit 213 may not be able to acquire an appropriate preparation time for processing.

[0090] For example, the condition acquisition unit 218 may acquire the operating conditions when not much time has passed since the last operation of the processing machine 3, and then the processing machine 3 may start up after a long period of time has passed. In this case, the preparation time acquisition unit 213 acquires 0 minutes as the warm-up time. However, in reality, a warm-up of 5 minutes or 20 minutes is required because a long time has passed since the last operation.

[0091] In other words, even if the condition acquisition unit 218 acquires operating conditions and the preparation time acquisition unit 213 acquires preparation time once, the operating conditions acquired afterward may differ from the operating conditions acquired previously. In this case, the preparation time acquisition unit 213 may acquire preparation time again based on the operating conditions acquired later.

[0092] The time calculation device 21 may calculate the start time of the processing machine 3 based on the completion time of the first processing.

[0093] Figure 12 is a block diagram showing an example of the functions of a time calculation device that calculates the start time of the processing machine 3. The time calculation device 22 includes, for example, a program acquisition unit 211, a processing time prediction unit 212, a preparation time acquisition unit 213, a setup time acquisition unit 214, a time calculation unit 215, a first end time acquisition unit 219, a start time calculation unit 220, and an output unit 216.

[0094] The program acquisition unit 211, the processing time prediction unit 212, the preparation time acquisition unit 213, the setup time acquisition unit 214, the time calculation unit 215, the first end time acquisition unit 219, the start time calculation unit 220, and the output unit 216 are realized, for example, by a hardware processor 201 performing calculations using the system program stored in the ROM 203 and various data stored in the non-volatile memory 205.

[0095] Note that the program acquisition unit 211, processing time prediction unit 212, preparation time acquisition unit 213, setup time acquisition unit 214, time calculation unit 215, and output unit 216 are the same as those shown in Figure 4. Therefore, a detailed explanation of these units will be omitted.

[0096] The first completion time acquisition unit 219 acquires the completion time of the first processing. The first completion time acquisition unit 219 acquires information indicating the completion time of the first processing from, for example, production plan information stored in a memory unit (not shown). That is, the completion time of the first processing is the scheduled completion time of the first processing as defined in the schedule.

[0097] The startup time calculation unit 220 calculates the startup time of the processing machine 3 based on the processing completion time acquired by the first completion time acquisition unit 219 and the operating time calculated by the time calculation unit 215. The startup time calculation unit 220 calculates the startup time of the processing machine 3 as the time obtained by subtracting the operating time from the processing completion time of the first processing. In other words, the startup time calculation unit 220 calculates the startup time as the time obtained by subtracting the operating time from the processing completion time.

[0098] The output unit 216 outputs the startup time calculated by the startup time calculation unit 220. The output unit 216 outputs the startup time to, for example, a display device of the time calculation device 22.

[0099] Figure 13 is a flowchart showing an example of the process performed by the time calculation device 22, which calculates the start time of the machining center 3. First, the program acquisition unit 211 acquires the machining program in the time calculation device 22 (step SC1).

[0100] Next, the machining time prediction unit 212 predicts the machining time required when the machining program acquired by the program acquisition unit 211 is executed (step SC2).

[0101] Next, the preparation time acquisition unit 213 acquires the preparation time for the machining process to be executed based on the machining program (step SC3).

[0102] Next, the setup time acquisition unit 214 acquires the setup time required for the machining process to be executed based on the machining program (step SC4).

[0103] Next, the time calculation unit 215 calculates the operating time from the start of operation of the processing machine 3 to the end of processing, based on the preparation time, setup time, and processing time (step SC5).

[0104] Next, the first completion time acquisition unit 219 acquires the completion time of the first machining process (step SC6). Then, the start time calculation unit 220 calculates the start time of the machining machine 3 based on the completion time of the first machining process acquired by the first completion time acquisition unit 219 and the operating time calculated by the time calculation unit 215 (step SC7). Finally, the output unit 216 outputs the start time (step SC8), and the process ends.

[0105] As described above, the time calculation device 22 further comprises a first completion time acquisition unit 219 that acquires the completion time of the first processing, and a start time calculation unit 220 that calculates the start time of the processing machine 3 based on the processing completion time acquired by the first completion time acquisition unit 219 and the operating time calculated by the time calculation unit 215.

[0106] Therefore, the time calculation device 22 can calculate and output the start time of the processing machine 3 based on the completion time of the first processing. As a result, the time calculation device 22 can provide the operator with information to start the processing machine 3 at the appropriate time. Consequently, the time calculation device 22 can contribute to energy saving of the processing machine 3.

[0107] In the embodiment described above, the output unit 216 outputs the start time of the processing machine 3. However, the output unit 216 may output a command to start the processing machine 3 along with, or instead of, the start time. For example, the output unit 216 can output a command to start the processing machine 3 to the power supply unit of the numerical control device 4. In this case, the time calculation device 22 can start the processing machine 3 at an appropriate time.

[0108] In the embodiment described above, if there is a large discrepancy between the timing at which the condition acquisition unit 218 acquires the operating conditions of the processing machine 3 and the timing at which the processing machine 3 starts up, the preparation time acquisition unit 213 may not be able to acquire an appropriate preparation time for processing.

[0109] For example, there may be a significant discrepancy between the factory temperature at the time the condition acquisition unit 218 acquires the operating conditions and the factory temperature at the time the processing machine 3 is started. In this case, the preparation time acquisition unit 213 should acquire the warm-up time stored in the preparation time storage unit 217 that corresponds to the lowest temperature. In other words, the preparation time acquisition unit 213 should acquire the longest warm-up time as the preparation time. The start-up time calculation unit 220 should then calculate the start-up time based on this preparation time. This prevents delays in the production plan.

[0110] However, if the temperature inside the factory is higher at the time the processing machine 3 is started than the temperature at the time the operating conditions were acquired, it is not necessary to perform a warm-up operation for the warm-up time acquired by the preparation time acquisition unit 213. In this case, the preparation time acquisition unit 213 only needs to acquire the warm-up operation time that was stored in association with the temperature inside the factory acquired at the time the machine was started. The start time calculation unit 220 only needs to recalculate the start time based on the warm-up operation time acquired again.

[0111] The time calculation device 22 may determine whether or not to turn off the power to the processing machine 3 based on the time interval between the completion of the second processing, which is performed immediately before the first processing, and the start of the first processing.

[0112] Figure 14 is a block diagram illustrating an example of the function of a time calculation device that determines whether or not to turn off the power to the processing machine 3 based on the time interval between the completion of the second processing step, which is performed immediately before the first processing step, and the start of the first processing step. Figure 15 is a diagram illustrating the relationship between the time acquired by the time calculation device and the time calculated.

[0113] The time calculation device 23 includes, for example, a program acquisition unit 211, a processing time prediction unit 212, a preparation time acquisition unit 213, a setup time acquisition unit 214, a time calculation unit 215, a second end time acquisition unit 221, a stop time acquisition unit 222, a first end time acquisition unit 219, a determination unit 223, and a command unit 224.

[0114] The program acquisition unit 211, processing time prediction unit 212, preparation time acquisition unit 213, setup time acquisition unit 214, time calculation unit 215, second end time acquisition unit 221, stop time acquisition unit 222, first end time acquisition unit 219, decision unit 223, and command unit 224 are realized, for example, by a hardware processor 201 performing calculations using the system program stored in the ROM 203 and various data stored in the non-volatile memory 205.

[0115] The program acquisition unit 211, the processing time prediction unit 212, the preparation time acquisition unit 213, the setup time acquisition unit 214, and the time calculation unit 215 are the same as those shown in Figure 4. Therefore, a detailed explanation of these units is omitted.

[0116] The second completion time acquisition unit 221 acquires the completion time of the second machining process, which is performed immediately before the first machining process. The second completion time acquisition unit 221 acquires the completion time of the second machining process from, for example, production plan information stored in the storage unit (not shown) of the time calculation device 23.

[0117] The stop time acquisition unit 222 acquires the stop time from the start of the stop process for the processing machine 3 in the second processing until the processing machine 3 reaches a stopped state. Here, the stopped state is the state in which the power to the processing machine 3 is turned off. In other words, the stop time is the time required from the start of the process to turn off the power to the processing machine 3 until it reaches the off state.

[0118] Furthermore, the stopped state may also refer to the sleep state of the power supply of the processing machine 3. In this case, the stopped time is the time required from the start of the process to put the power supply of the processing machine 3 into a sleep state until the machine actually enters the sleep state.

[0119] Furthermore, the downtime may include the time required for post-processing of the second machining operation. Post-processing may include, for example, the time required to remove the workpiece machined in the second machining operation from the table, and the time required to remove the fixtures used in the second machining operation.

[0120] The first completion time acquisition unit 219 acquires the completion time of the first processing. The first completion time acquisition unit 219 acquires the completion time of the first processing from, for example, production plan information stored in the storage unit of the time calculation device 23.

[0121] The determination unit 223 determines whether or not to start the shutdown process of the processing machine 3 after the completion of the second processing, based on the processing completion time of the second processing, the stop time, the processing completion time of the first processing, and the operating time in the first processing.

[0122] For example, if the time interval from the end of the second processing to the start of the first processing is longer than the stop time, the determination unit 223 decides to start the stop process after the second processing is completed. On the other hand, if the time interval from the end of the second processing to the start of the first processing is less than or equal to the stop time, the determination unit 223 decides not to start the stop process after the second processing is completed.

[0123] The command unit 224 commands the start of the stop process when it determines that the judgment unit 223 has started the stop process. The command unit 224 commands the numerical control device 4 to start the stop process. As a result, the numerical control device 4 starts the stop process of the machining center 3 at the end time of the second machining process.

[0124] Figure 16 is a flowchart showing an example of the process performed by the time calculation device 23, which determines whether or not to turn off the power to the processing machine 3. First, the program acquisition unit 211 acquires the processing program in the time calculation device 23 (step SD1).

[0125] Next, the machining time prediction unit 212 predicts the machining time required when the machining program acquired by the program acquisition unit 211 is executed (step SD2).

[0126] Next, the preparation time acquisition unit 213 acquires the preparation time for the machining process to be executed based on the machining program (step SD3).

[0127] Next, the setup time acquisition unit 214 acquires the setup time required for the machining process to be executed based on the machining program (step SD4).

[0128] Next, the time calculation unit 215 calculates the operating time from the start of operation of the processing machine 3 to the end of processing, based on the preparation time, setup time, and processing time (step SD5).

[0129] Next, the second completion time acquisition unit 221 acquires the completion time of the second machining process, which is executed immediately before the first machining process (step SD6). Next, the stop time acquisition unit 222 acquires the stop time from the start of the machine 3 stop process in the second machining process until the machine 3 reaches a stopped state (step SD7). Next, the first completion time acquisition unit 219 acquires the completion time of the first machining process (step SD8).

[0130] Next, the determination unit 223 determines whether or not to start the shutdown process of the processing machine 3 after the completion of the second processing, based on the processing completion time and stop time of the second processing, the processing completion time of the first processing, and the operating time in the first processing (step SD9).

[0131] Next, if the determination unit 223 determines that it is time to start the stop process, the command unit 224 commands the start of the stop process (step SD10), and the process ends.

[0132] As described above, the time calculation device 23 further includes a second completion time acquisition unit 221 that acquires the completion time of the second processing which is performed immediately before the first processing; a stop time acquisition unit 222 that acquires the stop time from the start of the stop process of the processing machine 3 in the second processing until the processing machine 3 is in a stopped state; a first completion time acquisition unit 219 that acquires the completion time of the first processing; and a determination unit 223 that determines whether or not to start the stop process of the processing machine 3 after the completion of the second processing, based on the completion time of the second processing, the stop time, the completion time of the first processing, and the operation time in the first processing.

[0133] Therefore, the time calculation device 23 can provide information to turn off the power to the processing machine 3 as needed after the second processing is completed.

[0134] Furthermore, the time calculation device 23 is further equipped with a command unit 224 that commands the start of the stop process when the determination unit 223 determines that the stop process should begin. Therefore, the time calculation device 23 can automatically turn off the power to the processing machine 3.

[0135] This disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described above, and can be modified as appropriate without departing from the spirit of the invention. For example, any component of the embodiments of this disclosure can be modified, or any component of the embodiments can be omitted. [Explanation of symbols]

[0136] 1 System 2-hour calculation device 21 Time calculation device 22-hour calculation device 23-hour calculation device 201 Hardware Processor Bus 202 203 ROM 204 RAM 205 Non-volatile memory 206 Interfaces 211 Program Acquisition Section 212 Processing time prediction unit 213 Preparation time acquisition part 214 Setup Time Acquisition Unit 215 Time Calculation Unit 216 Output section 217 Preparation time storage section 218 Condition Acquisition Unit 219 First end time acquisition unit 220 Startup time calculation unit 221 Second end time acquisition unit 222 Stop time acquisition section 223 Judgment Department 224 Command Department 3 Processing machine 4 Numerical control device 401 Hardware Processors Bus 402 403 ROM 404 RAM 405 Non-volatile memory 406-axis control circuit 407 Interface

Claims

1. A machining time prediction unit predicts the machining time of a first machining operation performed on a machining machine based on a machining program, A time calculation unit calculates the operating time from the start of the machining equipment to the end of the machining process in the first machining process, based on the preparation time for the preparation of the first machining process, the setup time for the first machining process following the preparation time, and the machining time predicted by the machining time prediction unit following the setup time. A time calculation device equipped with the following features.

2. A condition acquisition unit that acquires the operating conditions of the aforementioned processing machine, A preparation time acquisition unit acquires the preparation time based on the operating conditions acquired by the condition acquisition unit, The time calculation device according to claim 1, further comprising:

3. The time calculation device according to claim 2, wherein the operating conditions include at least one of the following: information indicating the state of the processing machine, information regarding the environment in which the processing machine is installed, and information indicating the state of peripheral devices installed around the processing machine.

4. A first completion time acquisition unit that acquires the completion time of the first processing, A start time calculation unit calculates the start time of the processing machine based on the processing end time obtained by the first end time acquisition unit and the operation time calculated by the time calculation unit, A time calculation device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising:

5. A second end time acquisition unit that acquires the end time of the second machining process which is performed immediately before the first machining process, A stop time acquisition unit acquires the stop time from the start of the stop process for the processing machine in the second processing to the time until the processing machine reaches a stopped state, A first completion time acquisition unit that acquires the completion time of the first processing, A determination unit that determines whether or not to start the stop process of the processing machine after the completion of the second processing, based on the processing completion time of the second processing, the stop time, the processing completion time of the first processing, and the operation time in the first processing, A time calculation device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising:

6. The time calculation device according to claim 5, further comprising a command unit that commands the start of the stop process when the determination unit determines that the stop process should be started.

7. To predict the processing time of the first processing step performed on the processing machine based on the processing program, Based on the preparation time for the first machining, the setup time for the first machining following the preparation time, and the predicted machining time following the setup time, the operating time from the start of the machining machine to the end of the machining in the first machining is calculated. A computer-readable storage medium that stores instructions for a computer to execute.

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